Changing Lanes: Chatting with M.O.N.T.’s Roda About Art and Music

Following in the footsteps of GOT7’s Jay B and WINNER’s MINO, M.O.N.T.'s maknae Roda has released his first art exhibition titled “The Nutcracker.” The online exhibition features eight pieces that follow his feelings during the trying times this past year. Alongside the exhibition, he released a new solo song titled “Anxious.” He was kind enough to sit down and chat with us about his art, his music, and what he does to deal with moments of anxiousness. 

Can you explain the story behind your new song "Anxious?”  

“Anxious” comes from my recent emotions of feeling anxious! The song has a jazzy blues type

sound. If people feel anxious, I want them to be able to listen to this song and feel like someone else understands how they feel. 

Fans have known you to be a prolific artist. How does it feel to host your first gallery event?

I'm very happy! I was nervous at first because I was worried people wouldn't like my paintings—but since the gallery opened, people have really liked it. So now I feel happy and achieved.

Out of the paintings shown in the gallery, which is your favorite? Why?

Every single painting is my favorite, they are like my babies. However, because my painting “Burnout Syndrome” took me the longest and gave me a lot to think about, I think I like that one the most.

What is your favorite artistic medium to work with?

I enjoy acrylics a lot, but I also enjoy drawing with a pen. 

In your recent release you have a line that says "get rid of the anxious." What are some ways you deal with moments of anxiousness?

I try to distract myself during those moments. I spend time doing something else like watching a movie or YouTube, listening to different music to work through the feelings. 

Are there plans for a physical gallery in the future?

Of course I’d love to have an offline gallery in the future. I can see the fans coming in and out of the gallery. It’s such a good thing to imagine so I wish it would come true.

Any final thoughts for MINT?

Thank you everybody for loving my gallery and my new song. Once COVID is over, I hope to see you guys in real life. I love you.

Wanting to “get rid of the anxious” is something we can all relate to. Thank you so much for spending time with us Roda! 

Check out Roda’s online gallery here and watch the music video for “Anxious” down below!