FAST FACTS:
Born and raised: Connecticut to a Jamaican father and Caucasian mother.
Creativity springs from: Musician father (guitar) and artist mother.
As a child, the debate between his parents was always whether Chy would pick up a guitar or a paintbrush.
Answer: As soon as he could pick up a pen, drawing became his passion.
Relocated to Miami: 2012
At about 14, he discovered spray paint and began writing basic tags of “Blue” and “Joker.” He started his street presence as a member of the TNB crew.
In the studio:
TOKIDOKI: What is a Mitrooper?
Chytea: “It’s a reflection of myself; the things I’ve trooped through and gotten past. I know for a fact that the universe will only give you as much as you can handle. So you just have to keep on troopin’.”
TOKIDOKI: Where did Mitrooper come from?
Chytea: Inspired by the Star Wars Stormtrooper. “I initially sketched him back in 2010, almost like just a doodle in my sketchbook, and didn’t think too much about it at the time. Then, when I got to Miami in 2012 and was having my mind blown by everything on the streets, seeing big murals for the first time, and quickly coming to the realization that having a signature character is ‘where it’s at,’ I decided I needed my own character. So, I just started looking through all of my old sketchbooks and Mitrooper was there from 2010. And I just said ‘Yes, that’s it!’ And from then on, I just started throwing Mitrooper up all over the streets of Miami.”
Mitrooper on the streets of Miami:
TOKIDOKI: Mitrooper. Pronounced “Mee-trooper.” Why is it spelled with an ‘i,’ then?
Chytea: “Because ‘Me’ in Jamaican is spelt “Mi.”
TOKIDOKI: You’re international, mate.
Chytea: “Yes. Mitroopers are in Belgium, France, Spain, The Netherlands, and Jamaica.”
Mitrooper philosophy explained:
You can follow the Mitrooper evolution on Instagram @mitroopers
Extras:
Sincerest thanks to Chytea for an incredibly enlightening day.
Peace and best wishes for constant evolution in 2017.
29dec16. Miami, FL.
