Kevin Calero is a Communications student focused on video production who directs, produces and creates some of the most beautiful local short films around. He juggles school and work equally, but is a dreamer above everything. He hopes to direct a major perfume commercial before meeting his death and has shot videos for NIGHTLIFE, creative agency TRUSST CLUB and several local designers.

What is art?
Art is subjective and allows for the best kind of escapism amongst other things. That's definitely what makes it appealing to me.

Biggest trend amongst your classmates?
There isn't really a standout one. However, because I take video classes in the Communications department, my classmates seem more interested in fiction or documentary rather than video art.

Best blogs to peruse during an uninspiring lecture?
There are rules against laptops in class, but I text alot.

Best and worst thing(s) about the local arts scene?
What is unfortunate about Montreal is the lack of investors/buyers of art. There is a really high concentration of talented people and most end up moving away in order to make a living. I always like to think of how different things would be if we had Toronto money. But there's nothing you can really do about it. Blogs are an amazing way to get your work showcased though. Let's hear it for the blogosphere.

The most gratifying or hard to stomach review you’ve received?
YouTube is a fun place where people go to be extra open about their opinions. When we put out the music video for Designer Drugs last April, one user wanted me burnt. I've printed the comment out and keep it next to my bed. I was extra flattered.

Teachers: enlightened experts or bitter art world failures?
I've been lucky to come across really inspiring and supportive teachers. One wink for you, Liz Miller. Another wink for you, Matthew Hays. So yes - enlightened experts. I'll refrain from naming bitter failures because I'm nice.

Are you more of a play-by-the-rules pupil or a rebel against conformity?
I have this thing about rules - I think they're frightening. I try not to get discouraged by them but fail most times.

The most underrated or overrated local artist?
Let's go out for drinks and discuss this in private. Are you free tomorrow?

What influences you more, music or fashion? 
They both make life dreamy and beautiful therefore both are necessary.

Do you prefer working alone or with others?
I love learning from others. However, it's really  rare to find people whose minds you can read while working on projects. It's the best feeling when it happens. But I'd say I end up being a total control freak most times. I'm working on letting go...deep breaths.

The starving artist syndrome: a self-imposed reality or the product of our current economic climate?
In my case, a self-imposed reality which I'm not totally comfortable with yet. It's hard when you're a student on top of it. You go to school and then work. Juggling both definitely requires a lot of discipline. But learning so much so quickly really makes it fun.

Where would you ultimately like to show your work?
Anywhere as long as it's a high budget major perfume commercial. Flora by Gucci was magic.

You know an artist has gone too far when…
People want you burnt.

Most memorable piece of art you’ve created?
This Spanish inspired short that I shot a year ago over three days with an amazing team of artists. The concept was local photographer Saad Al-Hakkak's and mine. It was our most ambitious project yet with nine looks in total, five models and five locations. It's taken me this long to shape it into something I'll be fully proud of. I put so much energy into planning it that I want it to be as perfect as I can make it. There's nothing more rewarding than coming up with images and seeing them come to life in front of the camera.  I've had to prioritize other paying gigs but the soundtrack is coming along nicely and we're hoping to have it out by the end of the summer. It's been a fun ride.

Contacts in the business: necessary for success?
Definitely. I heard being cuddly helps too.

Montreal: a place to get started, a place to pursue a career long-term or both?
I used to see it as a place to flee but it's a great city to get started in. I definitely want to travel for work but I like this little bubble.

kevin-calero.com
vimeo.com/user1261150