An Interview with David Corrales, Paint Operator

For this interview we head to the Basics plant to talk to paint operator David Corrales. A veteran team member experienced graffiti writer, David is proof that you can’t keep a good man down, especially someone with such passion for his job, hobbies and family life.

How long have you been at Montana Colors?

Well, I've been at MTN for eight years and I hope to stay here for many more.

Could you briefly explain to us what your job consists of?

My job is to prepare the paint manufactured at Montana Basics and transfer it into barrels before sending it to Montana Air to fill aerosol cans.

Have you always been had the same role?

No: before I was at Montana Air, painting and marking the the color rings we call Donuts. I was at Air for four years and I’ve been at Basics for the same amount of time. I’m always open to pivoting to new Jobs at Montana.

What’s the best moment of your working day?

I don't have any particularly special moments at work. Having a job is enough for me, especially if it’s at Montana Colors.

How do you get on with your colleagues ? Do you see one another outside of work?

It’s pretty good. Although there are always small disagreements like in every family, but they’re always solved quickly and in the right way. Outside of work I’ve got a good relationship with my colleague Albert, we get on really well. I’m also close to my friend and mentor David Torres, who recently joined our department.

You also paint graffiti, right? How does it feel to manufacture the product you use in your free time?

I feel lucky and happy to be working in Montana, since it is a brand that I have known since it came out through the “Aerosol Art” event that was held in Montjuïc in 1994.

What positive effect do you think it has on your work?

It is positive in lots of ways, like my attitude and productivity. By making and touching the paint that you know and have used since the early Classics and the first Hardcore cans, it makes you more motivated to work and get more involved in the product. I also try to stay in touch with other departments to address problems when I notice things that can be improved in the paint.

Do you know any other graffiti writers working at Montana?

I know several writers spread across various departments in Montana. I think it's good that we have dedicated graffiti writers on our team. For some people it's just a graffiti paint factory, but for those of us from the scene, the job is different.

Like many veteran graffiti writers, you’ve got your own family. What is the secret behind staying active as an grown up graffiti writer?

There’s no secret. I just experience it, enjoy it and share it with the family. They respect and understand what graffiti means to me.

We heard that your daughter also paints. How did she get into painting?

Yes, my daughter paints! She did her first piece when she was 13 years old. And to this day she continues to paint, at halls of fame producing studio work. She loves drawing and graphic design, she’s in further education and graffiti is always with her.

How has she been inspired by her father?

I noticed my inspiration because it is something that I’ve always shared with her, from sketches to walls, exhibitions at the Montana Gallery and visits to the Montana Shops. Having your kid with you is the best company you can get at a wall. Preparing the sketch, measuring the wall and choosing colors: it’s priceless.

Do you think that graffiti is a legit activity to do as a family?

Of course it’s legit! I’ve spent entire days painting with my whole family, sharing that moment on a wall. What's wrong with that? It’s always good to share things with your family. Graffiti unites. If you add children to the mix, it’s hard to put into words!

How is David the MTN paint operator different from David the graffiti writer?

There’s not much difference, I’m the same person. Anyone who knows me knows that I’m no different, I always try to learn new things at work, from colleagues, managers, in the R&D laboratory; as well as in graffiti from the people you meet. I try to learn new things and have a laugh whenever I can.

David took part in the 2021 MTN Summer jam, check out the spectacular results here.