Source: Northern_Echo
Folans an artist on and off the pitch
MIDDLEBROUGHS new target man Caleb Folan has designs on securing a double prize at the end of the season promotion for Boro and a place in next summers World Cup squad with the Republic of Ireland.
But designs of a more artistic nature consume Folans time off the pitch and after agreeing a three-month loan switch from Hull City to Teesside, the 26-year-old intends to spend his time away from the Rockliffe Park training pitches absorbing the best the North-East art scene can offer.
I like to think Im a bit of an artist, revealed the Ireland striker, whose arms are inscribed with tattoos of his own design.
It has always been something really important to me ever since I was at school. Ive always loved it.
Now Im in the North-East I plan to check out the Baltic centre in Newcastle and MIMA (Middlesbrough Museum of Modern Art) here in Middlesbrough.
I used to design pieces for some of the players when I was at Leeds United Olivier Dacourt and the like would buy stuff from me. I am influenced by Chinese art and I have quite a few tattoos, mainly Japanese influence, that are symbolic of characters and Japanese culture.
Ive travelled a lot in the Far East and I bought a property in Thailand. Ive always been into art and design as long as I have played football.
It is just a kind of hobby I try keep up with and I collect art because its a good investment.
I admire (graffiti artist) Banksy, hes a bit of genius, keeping such a low profile and putting out such interesting stuff. I did a bit of graffiti art when I was a kid on second thoughts I probably shouldnt talk about that!
Folan was this week unveiled along with international team-mate Sean St Ledger as Gareth Southgates latest and, in all probability, last signings of the season.
The pair have already developed something of a double act.
Asked to compare Southgates low-key management style to Phil Browns unorthodox approach at Hull, Folan replied: Its just a little bit different, before St Ledger chipped in: Yeah, he doesnt like a sing song!
Folan continued: Gareth is an experienced manager and he played at the highest level so we all know what he is about. Hes a good guy and I am here to give my all for him as well.
I was ready for a fresh start. I am always up for a challenge and getting back into the Premier League is a great challenge.
You need a more physical presence in this division. It is quite a challenging league, there are a lot of games and a lot of tough opponents out there and you need to put yourself about a bit.
