Asif Farooq
Where are you from? When and why did you come to Miami?
I was born and raised in Miami, Florida.
What is your medium?
I’ve worked in a variety of media. In the past, I’ve worked with metal processes, plastic, neon, text, and performance media.
How would you describe your art?
From an aesthetic standpoint, I would describe my work as zoomy. I like utilizing a disarming language that is accessible to almost anybody. I place high value on craftsmanship, while I feel that my work represents the very best aspects of me as a person.
Tell us more about what you explore in your art, please 
I explore impermanence and verisimilitude. I use layers of cardboard as though they were isolated facts and build a kind of relationship between them. For me, this is often a sentimental exploration of friendship and loyalty.
What started your fascination with guns?
The pervasive interest in arms shared by soldiers was transferred to me at an early age as I grew up around Vietnam Veterans. The real facts of the world are that guns exist; however one may wish to emotionalize them, although guns are still quite inanimate.
Are you more interested in the technical aspects of weapons or the possible connotations and points of discussion around guns?
I am interested in both. My father was an engineer, thus I understand and appreciate complicated mechanical processes quite well. Having said that, I believer I offer a new type of discussion about guns. For me they are like cars or soup, something that I view with a somewhat qualified dispassion. Other people have different agendas and more impassioned platforms regarding gun politics than I ever could.
How did you link up with Primary Projects?
Primary Projects is the kind of gallery I’ve always wanted to work with. The direction of the gallery is family oriented and that speaks to my values as a person. Every single artist they represent, like Magnus Sodamin and Christina Peterson, are all people that I admire from both a personal and professional standpoint. I’m a very all-or-nothing kind of a guy and this suits me just fine!
What is your vision going forward as an artist?
Every second of every day I’m attempting to move forward. Without placing expectations 
on myself, I would like to contribute something of real value to the world. Despite its problems, I think life is beautiful.
What do you love most about Miami?
My favorite things in the city are the little secret places.
Do you have any upcoming exhibitions?
I have an upcoming solo exhibition during Art Basel. Primary Projects has put together a show for me where I will have a storefront that will be turned into a gun store, with at least 300 cardboard guns of all types on display and for sale.