STUART IMMONEN
Stuart Immonen, while primarily known as an illustrator in the comic book field, has rolled up his sleeves in many areas of publishing and new media over the last twenty years. Sometime writer, editor, publisher, designer; everyday bon vivant, Stuart has provided product, character and concept design services for a variety of international clients including Warner Bros. Entertainment, Galafilm, Nickelodeon, The Walt Disney Company, The Upper Deck Company and Kenner Products. His illustrations have graced the covers of countless comics for Marvel, DC and others, and have been on exhibit on three continents, and his comic work has been translated into a half-dozen languages. He lives in Ontario, Canada.
www.immonen.caWhen did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?I've always drawn, and assumed that I would pursue it in some form as a career. However, I never truly realized the wealth of potential applications for an artist until I was well into adulthood. Apart from my experience with art teachers in a high school setting, I didn't know anyone who drew for a living. For the longest time, it never dawned on me that human beings created magazine illustrations, advertising or comics, and once I did, I didn't understand the mechanism for actually getting this kind of work. There was me, in a rural high school, and the commercial work I consumed in magazines and what have you, and a vast grey chasm in between.
In the 80s, there were lots of black and white comics being produced, and some by small publishers in Toronto, where I was attending university. Once I had this local, personal reference point, the pieces started to come together, but even then, I ended up doing things the hard way; self-publishing at first, and then crawling up the comics freelancing hierarchy to eventually work for DC Comics.
I knew I wanted to draw, and had found an avenue in which to make it a job, but looking back, it's a blurry continuum of simply being a warm body available for work at the right place and time. This isn't the whole story, but it is how it feels.
Who or what inspires you?Oh, lots of things! Too innumerable to catalogue, but I have a steel file cabinet of photos and magazine clippings going back 25 years or so, as well as a few inspiration folders on my hard drive. I read Computer Arts and Print and a few other design/ illustration periodicals, and pick up comics from all over on my travels. Kunokuniya is a Japanese book store which always has something of interest. It's always a painful credit card bill after I visit. I carry a Canon Powershot G2 and grab photos of interesting (mostly urban) patterns, which either get used directly in my work, or inspire something else. Music on constant random play helps enormously during working hours.
Anything and everything... that's the short answer.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?I attended York University in the Fine Arts program, and felt so discouraged by the direction in which I felt I was being pushed, that I quit after my first year. It just wasn't a good fit, but up until then, I had no ambition other than possibly teaching. Once I started exploring comics, I've felt it necessary to keep up to date with both technology and technique. I'm frequently dissatisfied with my level of craft, and try to reinvigorate myself, well, it seems, about every six months. It's not planned, but I can tell when I feel that I've plateaued using a certain style or a certain digital tool or brush. I hate to repeat myself, but as a result, I don't feel like I have a definitive, recognizable style.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?Simply, by looking outside it. I'm not trying to reinvent the business by any means, but for me, the world outside comics is so much more diverse, and therefore interesting. I like to experiment. Sometimes that means taking on different tasks, say inking and colouring as well as illustrating; at other times, it's a sea change in approach, rebuilding my drawing style from the ground up.
I also relish the opportunity to work outside comics whenever it comes up. Doing a spot illustration or some design work really blows the cobwebs out, and allows me to come back to comics with a new eye.
What are some of your current projects?I'm drawing interiors and designing and illustrating covers for Marvel's Nextwave series, written by Warren Ellis. In 2007, I'll be writing and drawing something for the relaunched Marvel Comics Presents anthology. I'm also doing some feature animation character design, and trading card illustrations here and there.
Never As Bad As You Think, the ongoing webcomic I co-create with Kathryn Immonen, will continue into the new year as well.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why? I'm very self-critical, and it's rare that any affection I have for something on the drawing board, or recently published, lasts very long. I'm proud of certain aspects of the collection of comic strips I recently self-published, "50 Reasons To Stop Sketching At Conventions", but it falls down in other areas; I like some of the Nextwave covers I've recently done.... this is a difficult question for me. I prefer to let the art speak for itself. If other people like it, I've done my job well. It doesn't matter so much if I continue to like it. I prefer to look to the next job instead.
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?Oh, I expect so. I'd like to find the time to paint, either with traditional materials or digitally, but I have very little spare time these days. What I really see myself doing in the years following my current contract with Marvel, is to pursue some personal -- that is to say, non-commercial-- comic projects. I'd like to take a year or two and get these ideas out of my system, and then return to mainstream work... or not. After nearly twenty years of superhero work, I strongly feel like a change. The film and other illustration work helps in this regard, but I still love comics, and feel like it's a medium worth my time.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?Go to trade school-- university was a big step backwards for me, and if I'd been on the ball, I would have switched gears and enrolled in an applied art course somewhere else. As it was, I kind of fell into freelance work for smaller publishers and clients; this was my apprenticeship, but there are much easier ways.
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?Clarity of design and illustration, simplicity, unity. All those plastic elements they tell you about, but don't tell you how to use.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?I step away from work and walk the dog.
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?I don't watch a lot of TV, honestly. We don't have cable, so we only get six or seven channels. I do like "House" when I catch it, but I mostly rent or buy DVDs.
Related Links: www.immonen.caRecent Work:
BLAKE HUNTER
Hi, thank you for taking the time to read my interview. I was born and raised in Rapid City, SD (if you have ever been to Mount Rushmore your were in the area). I moved to Minneapolis to attend classes at the University of Minnesota. I graduated in 1996 and wondered around for about a year before deciding that Minneapolis was were I would settle. The past six years I have been working at the Arts Instruction School. I have recently decided to spend more time developing my freelance career, and I’m in the first year of my five year plan to survive totally on my artistic abilities. Wish me luck!
When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?I have always been drawing so it’s more of a career that choose me. I decided to spend more time and energy on my illustration career more recently after wasting a lot of effort explaining to management my value as an artist. Today’s meeting was especially motivating. HAHA! For the most part I love my job, I get to help people who are interested in art develop their skills. At times it is very fulfilling, and I have improved as an artist immensely because I am forced to draw and comment on the basics of illustration everyday, whether I’m in the mood or not. Yet, it’s a business and I don’t vision myself giving them my peak years of creativity. I’m taking it slow to minimize my fright. If anyone has a suggestions, opinions, or a good story I’m all ears and eyes so feel free to contact me through my blog or flickr account.
Who or what inspires you?I’m lucky that I have a great family. My wife, Kristen, loves to experiment with crafts. It’s great to see her struggle with something and become so happy when a problem is solved. She has a great sense of humor and keeps me honest. Both of my brothers and their families live here, and it’s nice to have them near so I can visit my nephews. All my nieces and nephews are awe inspiring. As far as art goes I work with a couple of great artists. Almost everyday I get a post-it note that almost makes me wet myself. Mitch Hein, Roger Luteyn, Dana Mongoven, Sasha Streeter, Melissa Proulx, Dawn Turner, Duc Nguyen and Matt Eng have helped me learn and grow as an artist. The internet is great. I love the fact that I get exposed to such great art. Right now I love looking at Alina Chau blog because her work is so playful. Tommy Kane’s journal pieces are great. I like Michael Cho’s use of blacks and monotone colors. I am amazed at Ward Jenkins’ passion and dedication to the “Retro Kid” flickr site. Willie Baronet's blog is alot of fun. This is great time in many ways to be an art lover because so much great work it out there for viewing. I love how the art community has taken to blog’s and flickr. I could go on and on, between my flickr site and my blog it is impossible not to be inspired.
In college I had a great friend, Jeff, who was extremely thoughtful and challenge me to have higher expectations for myself and my art. Even though I lost contact with him, our time spent together is still inspiring ten years later.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?I graduated from the University of Minnesota with a BA in studio arts, with an emphasis in painting. It was great experience, and I learned so much from other students.
The term “self-taught” bugs me. I know when artists use it they are showing that they picked up a skill through hard work and their own interest, but I think it helps devalue our profession in society. If lawyers and doctors referred to themselves as “self taught” they would be considered flacky as a group also. The term undercuts the work you put into learning how to be a better artist, and gives other people the ability to not value your skills. I think the term also disrespects the people you learned from, whether it’s the person who wrote the manual to the program you learned, your friends that spent time with drawing, or the artists whose work you copied to mimic techniques. For me the nature/nurture debate is almost 50/50 for most creative skills. That being said, I know why most artists feel they are self taught. The secondary education available isn’t great. It seems like for every good professor I had in college, two weren’t helpful. It seems to if a school graduates three different students, three different years, and they all draw the same style of eye for every illustration they draw (both human and animal) that instructor wouldn’t be working.
I love a good art rant!
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?Taking a puff of Albuterol from my inhaler, HAHA! Keeping an open mind and seeing what other people are doing. Almost everyday I see something, whether it’s students, a post-it note, or something off the internet that makes me glad I’m an artist. It really is a lot of fun! My co-workers have a passion for their work that is nice to see. We are always bring in new magazines to look at. Right now I like reading “
How” magazine. Danny Gregory’s article is worth reading. I also like participating in group blogs, like this,
SugarFrostedGoodness,
ThreeThumbsUp, and
Illustration Friday (what a profoundly great concept that site is). I will be having sinus surgery to help me with some fresher breathing.
What are some of your current projects?I’m working on some pages for a children’s book. I have some mini-comics that if people want they can shoot me an e-mail. Most of my free time is spent developing ideas and illustrations for my portfolio, because I’ll be sending postcards to art directors by the end of the year. That and full-time job with an 1½ bus trip both ways, in Minneapolis where everyday is winter and we have 18’ of snow, leaves me with a full plate.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why? The children’s book is a lot of fun, it’s top secret so I can’t talk too much about. I recently did some artwork for people to use on their myspace accounts which was an unexpected blast. I have been doing a regular sketch of people I see downtown on my ride to and from work which I am really proud of, only because I have been able to keep at it for a decent amount of time and still enjoy it. Recently I started using my bus transfers and like the results. I love people watching. I can’t believe how varied people are, and I am embarrassed that I used to try so hard to stand out and look like and individual.
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?
Almost everything HAHA! I would like to do a comic book cover for one of the major companies someday. I need to get better at some of the digital programs, because I like some of the results I am getting when I goof around with photoshop elements 3.0 (don’t worry, I plan on graduating to CS2 soon). As far as more traditional techniques I want to get better at water colors. I have always been experimental and like working in a zone of discomfort. The challenge of mark making with different materials really gives me boost of energy.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?Take the time and draw everyday. It’s your craft, so spend the time developing yourself. I can’t stress how important being willing to experiment is. You need to stay playful and curious, because artists who have the attitude that they everything will only regress. If you aren’t willing to learn, don’t bother.
The field is highly competitive and do your best not be jealous if people you know get work you wanted, don’t let the competition get in the way a developing friendships. Realize that people who offer you constructive criticism , believe in you and want to help you get better.
Be patient. It’s not the worse thing in the world if you don’t get a lot of work out of school. I worked as a delivery driver for a bookstore for three years and value the experience because I was exposed to a world that I would have never had seen otherwise. The gap between my education and professional career has giving me a fuller life that I can draw upon today for ideas and inspiration. Oh, and most artists are prima donnas who need to get over themselves after school.
Use the internet. Use it to sell yourself, Use it to seek out new artwork. Use it to have a dialogue with other artists. Beware! Sarcasm doesn’t travel via e-mail!
It’s okay to stop working a project if you aren’t getting along with a client. It’s not good for either of you if you aren’t getting along. I have had to stop work in the past, and handled it professionally enough that I was able to work with that client again at a later date.
It’s ok to start a piece over, some mistakes aren’t fixable. Be honest with yourself. You aren’t as great as think and you aren’t as bad you feel. Do your best to enjoy your work.
Don’t pay attention to how your instructor’s told you how to draw eyes!
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?All the creative fields are subjective. Concept, how the concept is carried out, and composition seem like fair elements for design and illustration. I know, for myself, I like looking at images that seem like they were a lot of fun to work on. I know that pieces I find boring will cause me to skip articles in magazines.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?I’m pretty disciplined and stay motivated to work on my own stuff for longer stretches now that I’m getting older and hitting a creative peak. It seems like am more comfortable in my own skin and have an easier time working with clients. I am more reciprocal to theirs ideas and needs and do a better job of explaining my ideas. If I could avoid meetings that would help me stay more motivated at work. Having friends and an interest in what they are doing helps a lot.
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?Well it’s summer so nothing is new. I like “Spaced” which recently started showing on BBC America. “Venture Brothers” is good. I am currently in a stage where I like Pro Wrestling, but that comes and goes. I can’t wait for new episodes of “Lost”….but apparently you already know about that show.
I would like to thank Jeff for this opportunity, it meant a lot to me!Related Links:http://trophiogrande.blogspot.com/http://www.flickr.com/photos/trophiogrande/Recent Work:
CHRISTIAN ELDEN
Christian Elden is a freelance artist and full-time graphic designer for Warner Press, a Christian resource publisher in Central Indiana. His responsibilities include creating and developing Warner Press products and marketing support materials such as catalogs, brochures, church bulletins, classroom resources, illustrations for children's materials, and numerous other products. He was previously a designer at Curtis Publishing, exclusive licensor of The Saturday Evening Post artwork, including rights to all Norman Rockwell cover art.
He has been married to his wife Elizabeth for just over a year and they have one child, a thick-skulled Lhasa Apso named Calvin.
When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?
I think I’ve always known that I wanted to be an artist. I had artists in my family and grew up watching what they were able to do, and I wanted to create art just like they did. My uncle, who is a professional sign painter & muralist, gave me a set of art technique books for Christmas one year when I was very young... Like 4 or 5 years old... And I didn’t care much about the techniques then, but I studied the artwork in those books and tried to copy it the best I could. I realize now that those books shaped my interests and the way I drew things early on. There was never really a pivotal moment that I decided to pursue art — I never really wanted to do anything else — but I was always known in class as “that kid who can draw” and I guess I started to take it a bit more seriously in high school, when I started to think about what I really wanted to do for a career. Lately, I’ve tried to focus more on illustration, but design factors into everything. There’s no escaping it.
Who or what inspires you?
I find inspiration in so many things... Books, design magazines, ads, the web. When I was young, I would look at books for hours. I say “look” and not “read” for a reason — if there weren’t any pictures in the book, chances are I wasn’t interested. I loved the picture books my parents would read to my brother & me when we were kids, and later on I’d study books with works from famous artists. I loved Norman Rockwell, when I was a kid, for the expressions he was able to capture. Now, with the whole blogging thing having taken off the way it has, there are so many great artists who have their artwork readily available online. I’m humbled all the time. I appreciate sites that list creative blogs all in one place, because there are so many out there that it’s impossible to see them all. If/when I find a piece I’m really drawn to, I tend to really study it and figure out how the art was created, then try to emulate it, just like when I was 5. It’s a great way to practice and I’ve learned a lot about my capabilities that way.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?
I went to Bowling Green State University for a year, then transferred and received my Graphic Design degree from Huntington College (now Huntington University) in 2002. Lately, though, I’ve really just been experimenting with different styles and trying to figure some things out for myself. While there are certain methods I always fall back on, I like to use different styles to keep things interesting. I can appreciate artists who have a signature style and are sought out for their particular look, but I like to explore a range of different looks, and use all of them. I’m always studying, though, always learning. I’m finding that the more I stretch, the more satisfying the end result.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?
In the specific corner of the market my full-time job is tied to, there’s a constant battle between traditional (i.e. “conservative”) and contemporary styles. A traditional style works better for some things, while a fresher, contemporary style might work better for something needing a hipper edge to it. You always have to know your audience, though, and that plays a big part in the way my work comes across at my 9-to-5. The key to keeping fresh, at least in my mind, is to keep pushing the envelope until the contemporary styles become the traditional ones, and then you start all over again.
What are some of your current projects?
At my full-time job, I’m lucky enough to work on both design and illustration, and I sometimes get to combine the two. Right now, I’m developing a line of Christian “all occasion” greeting cards for tweens. I’m really looking forward to seeing how they’ll turn out. I’ve always got something going on the side, too, whether it be illustration or a logo for a friend’s business.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why? In college, for one of my senior projects, I developed & illustrated a children’s story that revolved around two bears and the truest of friendships (original, right?). It was all mine, though, and I was proud of the way I’d made the story rhyme and the way the illustrations had turned out. Looking back on it now, it definitely needed some work, but I burned all kinds of midnight oil getting that thing done, and it was pretty well-received amongst my peers.
A recent project I’m fond of is a kids’ Bible activity book called “Get a Clue!” It’s my first published “book”, and I was responsible for everything except the copywriting — illustration, layout & design. I’m hoping it’s the first in a long line of published works by one Christian Elden.
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?
I would really like to learn more about web design. I know my way around a little bit, but it’s the new stuff that’s intriguing to me... All the dynamic things the web can do now. I’d also like to hone my painting skills... I’ve never been patient enough for it. I’d also like to try graffiti. I know I’d probably never be considered a true “writer”, but I’m interested in the techniques... The whole culture is very interesting to me. And last but not least, I’d like to write & illustrate children’s books at some point. But really, who doesn’t?
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?
Just about any experienced artist would say, “Be patient.” There’s a reason: fame & fortune don’t (usually) come right away. That, and keep learning. There is so much to be inspired by... Pay attention and take it all in.
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?
I love art that clearly communicates an idea. Illustration, in particular, is most successful when it can say it all without using a word. Sure, design principles factor into a piece’s success, but the thought that goes into the art — the preparation — definitely helps make it a winner. The mind behind the design is usually what makes it successful.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?
I slow down and take breaks. I look around. I find things that make me look twice and I take note. There’s so much ridiculously good art out there to be motivated by. Music is also an effective motivator and burnout-avoider for me. I love all kinds of music. If I wasn’t an artist, I’d love to be a full-time musician.
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?
I’m a sucker for spy-type shows, so I love “24”. I caught onto it a couple seasons late, though, so I’m trying to play catch-up. If the artist and musician things don’t work out, I’d definitely be a gun-wielding secret agent.
Related Links: http://www.christianelden.com (under construction)
http://celden.blogspot.comRecent Work:
BOB MACNEIL
Bob MacNeil has been called a renaissance man. You may not know it, but more than likely you have seen his work! For 15 years he has passed the day as a graphic designer, illustrator, concept designer, background artist for animation, web designer, copyrighter and toy designer. It seems that he cannot keep a steady job, but that is simply not the case. He works as all of these at the same time, (not simultaneously of course, but rather) through a well organized time regiment that allows him to be part of one artistic endeavor after another. There are also days when he doesn't sleep. He calls those days, weekdays! His work can be seen in your local grocery store on your favorite packaged item, in your entertainment center next to your console gaming system, at your local toy store, or on your television set behind some colorful characters. A short list of companies that have employed his lunacy go by the names Cartoon Network, Good Humor-Breyers, Pepsi Cola, Toy R Us, Nickelodeon, Microsoft and Electronic Arts.
His wife Deana, tolerates his busy schedule because she knows no matter where they go, she's guaranteed a laugh from his endless mentioning of what he did in whatever store they're in! You can check out what keeps him busy at his blog, Bob's LOG (
http://bobmacneil.blogspot.com) or on his other web presence, his online portfolio (
http://www.taminglight.com)
When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?
I always remember drawing, or creating something that didn't fit the mold of a typical kid. For years, my Mom joked that she would yell at me to go out and play with the neighborhood kids. I was more content with staying in the house and concocting some sort of artistically centric expression. I guess the mess I would make is what inspired her to those heightened vocals. The earliest drawing I did, circa 1976-1977 (which I saved for posterity sake) is a tracing of a cover from the comic, Shang Chi, the Master of Kung Fu. I gave Mr. Chi an 8 pack stomach! I guess you can say the reality of anatomy those many years ago typically got lost in translation. As far as pivotal moments go, I guess it would be 4th grade grammar school. We (the students) were given some busy work to do by the teacher, a craft project which employed the illustration trick of using a grid to copy a picture. The picture was a line drawing of a lion. I replicated the drawing pretty accurately, but never used the grid overlay to do so. Finally, I found something that warranted a gold star! And, I guess another time would probably be when I failed the "You can draw a pirate test!" (remember that), which you could receive through mail order. They told me that my rendition of the pirate wasn't quite there yet ( I may have been 7). Well, they pissed me off and I wanted to prove those turtle/ pirate peddling art devils that they were wrong... I COULD draw a pirate! So I guess at 6 or 7, is when I decided that I would be a famous artist, or maybe that's when I decided to be a pirate (I don't really remember...)
Who or what inspires you?
A little bit of everything I guess. I really love retro era art, 50's era design and culture. I love anything that has a hint of tiki influence in it, (if tiki is a good enough definition for an almost forgotten culture) I like Disney, even though it seems to carry such a negative reputation. I absolutely love anything that Pixar does. It's a dream of mine to one day walk those halls of employment. The first artist I looked up to has to be John Byrne. The exactness in his drawing is what I aspired to achieve in my work. Presently, I would say that the variety of art you can find on the web keeps me inspired. The blog explosion of artists has definitely changed the way I look at things.
Design Inspiration, as a matter of fact, has been a great resource for me! I also seem to love foreign artists. I'm American, but there are some contemporary Latin and French artists I have found on the web that do some great work. In particular, the comic work done outside of America, to me, has so much more creativity to it. I guess that's why, as of late, I've become more partial to independent artist works. The big guys of the industry have become more and more predictable and boring. The sappy answer has to be my wife, Deana (her family) and my sister, Jodi. With a slew of recent tragedies in my life, I lost a lot. They have all been very supportive and there for me through it all.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?
My family is full of artists. So I guess their support throughout the years could possibly equate to my first form of training. The school I attended, felt sort of like the school from the TV show Fame. There weren't any academics, just art class, but because the curriculum wasn't so structured the teachers followed suit. If you didn't want to work and were more so interested in social mingling, you had no trouble coasting by. I glommed on to a few teachers who I felt had something to offer and pretty much chewed their brain for whatever info they were willing to share. Dennis Dittrich a talented NYC illustrator, and now friend, is the person who has probably had the most impact on what I do. These days I do most of my work entirely on the computer and that is mostly self-taught, with a bunch of assistance from another long time friend named James Bukowiec (my first official art/ creative employer). When I was a matriculating student an apple was either something you ate, or one of those giant computers that filled a 40 ft. sq. room but held 500 K worth of information. All of my computer knowledge was acquired through on the job training, and for that, I have to thank James.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?
I try to experiment with something new all the time. I guess that's why my work really doesn't have a distinct style to it, and I have such a varied portfolio of work. It's been both good and bad in my career, as I never pigeonholed myself with an identity. I did however, mold myself to become a chameleon when I do work. It tends to always keep me very busy, but my name isn't busting down any doors. In addition to that, I try to shower as often as I can!
What are some of your current projects?
I just finished up a run as a background painter on the television show The Venture Brothers. Currently, I'm working on two other projects that both involve entertainment venues. Unfortunately I cannot show any of that just yet, but as soon as I can, my website will be the first to know, I promise. I also work full time as a graphic designer for MegaBrands America, so there is always something on the burner relating to that.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?
I would say the image I did for no other reason than to simply thank the guys over at Flight has to be my favorite most recent image/project. My Mom lost her battle to cancer (one of the aforementioned tragedies) and Flight 1 happened to be a book I read during what I experienced while she was sick. Flight inspired me to keep pushing forth with my art, while my world changed before my eyes. I made the painting to simply post onto Flight's forums, and to extend a thanks to everyone there for keeping my head in the creative game. I felt the stories in the book were there to help get my mind off of the reality I was living. Fast forward a couple of years, Flight is now in it's third installment and my image is included with its history. I have worked on campaigns that can be seen all over the world, but this little image in the back of Flight 3 will be the one I'll never forget. Kazu was very kind to include me in the edition.
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?
I have recently started to return to animation after many years of putting it aside. In the past, I experimented with everything from 3-D digital animation to stop motion claymation. Now I'm working on actual 2-D productions and I really enjoy it! I want to get my hands on After Effects, and see what I can do now that I know how it's done, so to speak. I also would like to use some real paint again, I'm dying to ruin my carpet. And once again, I would give a body part to work with anything Pixar has slated.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?
Do not give up. Start out small, and soon the bigger stuff will come looking. Realize you're not curing any world problems, you're creating art, so by all means have fun while doing so!
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?
Since design or illustration is so subjective and relevant to where it's being used, it's hard to give a textbook answer. If you inspire someone to think about your work, enjoy your creation or dream to do what you do, I guess that is a success. I feel successful when I finish a project, no matter what it is, because I know I've grown as an artist, I've used my gift, and my next project is around the corner waiting for me.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?
I look at my monthly bills! I also make sure I laugh at someone every day... there's no reason to not laugh at other people.
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?
The best thing on TV? I love putting various objects on my TV and watching my wife put them back where they belong in the house. Oh, and The Simpsons!
Related Links:
http://www.taminglight.comhttp://bobmacneil.blogspot.comRecent Work:
ALINA CHAU
Everyday life become fun and exciting when observed from a different perspective. In animation, Alina Chau finds the perfect language to fulfill her wild imagination, and passion in storytelling.
As a filmmaker and a recipient of the student Emmy Awards, she directed and produced three internationally successful animated short films. Her film, "Frieden – the Tree of Peace" has been showing daily at the United Nations New York headquarters since 1999.
She received her Master in Fine Art degree from UCLA, and currently works for Technicolor Interactive Services as a CG animator. She is also a part time professor at Woodbury University. Her recent production credits include: Metal of Honor Rising Sun, Pacific Assault, and European Assault, Sony PSP game - the Con, and Silent Hill. She lives in Los Angeles.
Web-site:
"Ice-Cream Monster Toon Cafe"
http://alinanimation.blogspot.com/On-line Store:
"Ice-Cream Monster Store"
http://www.cafepress.com/ice_creamonsterWhen did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?Professionally I am actually more of an animator then an illustrator or designer. I always love drawing since I was a kid barely knowing how to hold onto a pencil. To me drawing is always one of my favorite hobbies, but I didn't take art seriously until college. My major is Digital Graphic Communication, in which I was introduced to graphic design, web/interactive design, and animation. After I graduated, I realized animation is my career passion. So I decided to further my study in animation at UCLA Film School as a graduate student. It's hard to pin point a pivotal moment, there are so many events which have guided me to where I've eventually come. But UCLA definitely is the "enlightenment" period, which liberated me to a new horizon in arts and films.
Who or what inspires you?
WOW!! There are so many inspirational and remarkable figures ... let's see ... better give you a short list. First person that comes into mind, is my grandmom. She never received any formal arts education. But she is a creative, masterful draftsman, designer, storyteller, and artist, who always encourages and supports my interests in arts. Her warmth loving and caring personality continues to influence my arts deeper and deeper as I grow older. The second tipping point would be my teachers at Chester College, Liverpool, UK. I went to Chester for a summer exchange program during undergrad. Within a summer, I learned one of the most important lessons in my entire education - "Never be afraid to make mistake and break the rules." This is my "break the pencil" era. I explored all kinds of experimental arts; was encouraged to break all the rules I'd learned; and to never fear to venture into new territory. It taught me how to appreciate everyday surrounding from new perspectives. Later on, two of my professors at UCLA further inspired me to become a life time scholar. Dan McLaughlin, the chair of UCLA Animation ... he made me realize my potential, and inspired me to challenge the seemingly impossible. My drawing teacher, Glenn Vilppu ... Ahh ... Glenn, he is the best drawing teacher I have ever had. He not only teaches me how to draw, but more importantly, he teaches me how drawing and art could be FUN and NEW every time you open the sketchbook. This is very important, especially for an animator or professional artist. After sitting in the studio all day everyday, animating at 24 frames per second, doing couple hundreds frame per day ... one could become exhausted, drained; and lose the joyful spark of creativity. But Glenn's love and passion in drawing inspires his students to enjoy drawing in a playful manner. Drawing become fun and an outlet to explore new ideas!! Oooh!! I can never forget the most important lesson from Glenn, don't use your hands to draw, but your brain.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?
Neither of my parents can draw, so they always sent me to kiddy drawing classes. Then I go to college at Hong Kong Baptist University, Chester College, and grad. school at UCLA ... so pretty much I receive most of my formal arts education in college. Growing up, I took all kinds of painting, drawing, sculpting, photography classes etc. But most of these are foundation or introductory level generic arts classes. Serious drawing class though, I have to give that credit to Vilppu.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?
Humm ... this may sound silly. OK!! When I get burnt out and run out of ideas or get frustrated, I would leave my desk and go get a scoop of ice-cream. HA ! HA !! Err ... I am not kidding either, ice-cream can solve many problems. OK! It may not solve the problem for good, but good enough to make me stop and think. HA ! HA ! HA !! After a scoop of ice-cream, the weather looks nicer; the temperature feels cooler ... my tummy is happy, and my brain is ready to cook up new ideas. I guess ... to keep "fresh" is to be willing to change, and maintain a good sense of humor. Very often an idea block is caused by one holding on a precious idea too close and too tight ... it's very easy for that to happen. But never fear venturing into unknown territory or receive negative criticism. There is no mistake in arts. OK! There is bad art. But everyone, even the grand masters had art which got fed into the fireplace. One learns from mistakes as much as success. Beside there is one cool thing about art. Unlike math, if you are wrong, you're screwed. In art, sometimes a masterpiece is created by an incidental mistake!!
... Err ... did I go off topic ... sorry ... Let's me try to sum it up ... "be playful and be adventurous!"
What are some of your current projects?
Sorry, due to my contract with the studio, I can't discuss any of the projects. My main position at work is doing 3D character animation. During pre-production, I'm often involved in storyboarding and conceptual design. For fun, I am working on publishing a collection of my travel sketches into a book. Hopefully that will be completed within a year. I may work on a second book at the same time, which will contain mostly illustrations. I will post the books on my web-blog once it is completed. Crossing my fingers, the books will do better then my little nick nack store. HA ! HA !! Which only makes 15 dollars in a year .... Can I shamelessly promote my little on-line store here? The Minty T-shirt is really cute and comforty!! And there are many other goodies in the store too. HA ! HA !! HA ! HA !! HA !!
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?
I would say, E=mc2. My thesis film at UCLA, because it got me a student Emmy, and my first job at EA. HA ! HA !! After that, it would be one of the recent projects I did at work. I can't release the title on-line yet ... don't want to get into trouble. It's a cinematic of a popular game. I got to storyboard the whole project. Although things got changed at the end, plenty of the original board ideas remain. I am proud, cause this is the first time I developed a storyboard for an entire project professionally. Then, there is Medal of Honor Pacific Assault. This is a love and hate project. I like it because much time and energy was invested into this project. I worked with many talented and awesome people, and we became very good friends. It's also a great learning experience. But I hate it at the same time, cause this project is pretty much a production in hell - one year of stress, exhaustion and overtime ...
E=mc2 (2001), you can find some concept arts and link to a Quicktime movie file in the September archive of my blog:
http://alinanimation.blogspot.com/2005_09_01_alinanimation_archive.htmlMedal of Honor Pacific Assault:
http://www.ea.com/official/moh/pacassault/us/Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?
Ooooh, there is always new stuff I want to try ... I want to explore more into digital painting, would love to get back into traditional painting, ie oil or acrylic someday. As for projects, someday I would like to work on feature film projects both in fully animated films and SFX live-action films.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?
There are many experienced and talented people out there. In comparison, my career is still young. I am not really qualified to give any profound wise advice. I can only speak from my limited experience. No matter what art forms you are interested in, there is one thing most professions shared in common - it's very competitive to get your foot in the door. When one submits a portfolio or resume to places, very often one will receive unhappy amount of rejection letters. You may feel like crying out loud and feel desperate after a while ... but rejection letters don't mean you are not good, or not strong enough for the position. No one can predict how studios or companies pick and choose people, or how they make the decision when and who to hire. The key is to be persistent. If it's the job you want, chase after it. Revise and improve your portfolio and re-apply. If the job requires skills or experience which takes time to gain, don't get disheartened and feel like you can never get to the level. Take a different path, which may be less desirable, but which will allow you to develop the skills. Most important thing in one's career is the room to grow and learn. It may take a long time, even years to achieve your
dream. But as long as you are constantly improving and learning, you will get there. Never get discouraged and give up!
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?
Ideas which spark one's imagination; challenge the contemporary; stimulate one's emotion; inspire one to question; and endure through time.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?
HA !! HA !! Well ... sleep, yummy food, read, hang out with friends, swim, fun outings, fresh air ... travel helps a lot!! HA ! HA !! Except can't do that too often ... Most of the time for emergency stress release would be a scoop of Minty's cousin and friend - Err ... ice-cream. HA !! HA !! HA ! HA !! HA !! Ooooh ... it helps to curse the computer - "STUPID COMPUTER!" and blame the cartoon characters (those give me headache while animating) out loud ... Or draw silly faces on co-workers food or drink ... HA ! HA !! HA ! HA !! HA !!
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now? Hmm ... Does Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends count?! That's my favorite. Bloo ROCKS!! I rarely watch much TV ... My TV "screen saver" mood is usually Cartoon Network or Food Network ... Iron Chief, 40 dollars Day, Unwrapped ... and then there is Discovery and History Channel, when they have good stuffs, like ancient mystery, myth busters ... not into the building muscle car show though. What else ... HBO Rome is cool ... but don't think they have that right now. When there is American Idols ... I watch that too, it's entertaining ...
Jeff, thank you for having me in your design blog.
Dear reader I hope you enjoy my little story, and thank you for appreciating my arts.
Have a lovely coool day!
Yours truly,
Alina
Related Links:
http://alinanimation.blogspot.com/http://www.cafepress.com/ice_creamonsterRecent Work:
TIEL SEIVL
Wow, time is of the essence here. I have amazingly two children asleep this afternoon and any minute they could wake. My synopsis is short and sweet...a bit like me.
I am currently a mum who craves the creative outlet. I sneak into my studio at any given moment of the day to work or create or look and be inspired. I am a freelance designer doing small work for people who want logos, basic websites etc. What I love doing is illustration. Since having children I have started a new side of my company called ABCmes. Personalised Artwork for Children. My background is in Fine arts(printmaking) and teaching design and art. My website is
www.tsktsk.com.au you will be able to find me at
tsktsk.typepad.com...after I nut out a few technical issues!
When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?
About 1992 when I was half way through completing my BA in Fine Arts degree. I realised that I had chosen the wrong course. I was surrounded by people who just wanted to paint, it just wasn’t enough form me. I chose a computer graphics subject, and WOW this is what I want to do. However, I finished my BA and I am glad to say that majoring in printmaking has given me real, hands on skills that I use in my graphic design when I can. I love combining the organic with new technology.
Who or what inspires you?
At the moment, those who have become successful from their artistic and creative talents. I could surf the internet daily and be impressed with someone. A few at the moment are, Ali Edwards, Maria Carluccio, Donna Ingemanson. And of course my children, who remind me everyday that I must not lose my creative urge to make or design something.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?
I completed a university degree. Believe it or not I fell into teaching at University and TAFE levels and taught myself so much by teaching the students. I loved coming up with projects for them, because it made me do them too. I train up when I can on small courses and diplomas that are relevant to my interests.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?
Work. Explore. Buy beautiful books and magazines. I would love to do more. I don’t go to art galleries enough.
What are some of your current projects?
Personalised ABCme artwork for children. I love making them and get a buzz every time I receive an order. Basically, you tell me the name of the child, select from the images I have created, choose a colour scheme and I render and personalise everyone. I have also been designing some logos and branding imagery for various companies, from software products to children’s products. Had fun making one for tumbleweed kids.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why? The ABCme artwork I guess. I have 2 kids under 4 and started the artwork for children 2 years ago. Visit
www.tsktsk.com.au. I have many ideas in my head...just not enough time. Tumbleweed Kids. Loved designing the logos. Visit
www.tumbleweedkids.com.auAre there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?Felting...next Wed I begin. Would love to update my computer skills and have a mentor.
Oh yes, textile design. I love crossing media.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?
Be inspired by what others do. Be honest with what you do.
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?
Good use of design elements, such as colour, space, texture etc. I could write all day on this...
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?
Do something creative other than what I am doing. I often quilt, sew, scrapbook, animate. So long as I am making something. My ideas often cross over from one medium to another.
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?
Spicks and Specks. (ABC TV Australia. Music Quiz Show) It is about the only show I watch.
Related Links:
www.tsktsk.com.autsktsk.typepad.comRecent Work: 
WARD JENKINS
Ward Jenkins is an animation director, illustrator and designer living in Atlanta, Georgia. He currently works for Primal Screen, an award winning animation company that focuses primarily on broadcast animation and design. His work has been seen on such networks as Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, PBS Kids, TNT, HGTV, Animania, to name a few. Ward has been animating professionally for 10 years and has been with Primal for the last 5. Besides being an animator, he also enjoys painting, illustrating, photography, and doing graffiti on the side. He's also been known to collect old things (lots of interesting old things.)
Ward has been married to Andrea, his soul-mate and "secret weapon," for 11 years, and they have two children together: Ava (5), and Ezra (2). You can find Ward spouting animated prose and what-not on his blog, The Ward-O-Matic (
http://wardomatic.blogspot.com), which has become his most recent obsession for the last year and a half. Stop on by if you're the curious type. He'll thank you for it.
When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?I've always drawn. Just like your average kid, I picked up a crayon and drew things and loved it. But for some strange reason, I kept it up when others started to focus on other things, and continued drawing throughout school and then high school. I was pretty much the "artist" of my class who would draw things for my friends, if asked nicely. It got kinda old, but I pretty much enjoyed the extra attention that it gave me from time to time. So, really, my desire to become an artist/illustrator started pretty young. Sorry, no pivotal moment for me.
Who or what inspires you?There is an ongoing roster of many artists, illustrators, and animators who inspire me on a daily basis, so it'll be hard to pinpoint exactly who, especially since it's always changing, evolving. But there are a few biggies who helped form the basis for my artistic upbringing. I loved Jack Davis and Charles Schultz in my early years, but it wasn't until my college years when I realized this whole world of art that I had yet to tap into. Jean Michael Basquiat, Marcel Duchamp, John Cage, Robert Rauschenberg, Jasper Johns, Cy Twombly helped me look at this world around me with new eyes. When I started to get into animation, I drew upon the talents of Ward Kimball, Freddie Moore, Mary Blair, Frank Thomas & Ollie Johnston, to name a few. Lately, I've been getting into a lot of old stuff, like vintage children's books, vintage ephemera, illustrators from the 50's - 60's, Jim Flora, The Provensen's, Aurelius Battaglia, etc. There's just something about that era. I can't explain it.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?Even though I went to school and got a BFA in Illustration at Georgia State University, I'm largely self-taught when it comes to animation. I learned from reading books and watching animated movies and shorts frame-by-frame. I was so curious as to why these particular animators did the things that I was seeing on screen. It was amazing to me. And when I learned about timing and the difference between "ones" and "twos," well, that was monumental. A door opened for me that day, and I've been trying to wrap my brains around it ever since.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?Being aware of your surroundings, contemporaries, fellow artists/animators -- seeing what they are up to, but then doing your own thing and taking it further than anyone else would. Take it far without breaking it.
What are some of your current projects?I wish I can tell you what I'm working on currently, but I'm not allowed to mention any current project until it airs. However, I can tell you that I just finished up directing the most recent Cocoa Puffs commercial, produced through Saatchi & Saatchi. I'm very excited and very proud of that one. It's a biggie. It was very intimidating, however, to follow in the footsteps of Renegade Animation, who produced the previous Cocoa Puff spots. Smooth, full animation with impeccable timing is not easy to do, especially when you're under a deadline, but I saw it as a challenge. I think we succeeded. It's airing now on most of the kid's networks.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why? Besides the Cocoa Puffs spot, I am most proud of my two animated short films I produced independently while working at an animation boutique in the late 90's. The first short was called "figure drawing," and the second, "noir." They both had modest showings in the film fest circuit, but it was an incredible rush to see your film projected up on the big screen. That is a feeling I plan on experiencing again some day.
There have been a number of great jobs that I've been proud of throughout the years: the most memorable being the ones where I got to design the characters as well as the entire spot itself. I once animated the opening to Charles Barkley's short-lived show on TNT, called "Listen Up!" done in a blocky, chunky style that I had picked up from my stint in graffiti. In fact, I got to meet Mr. Barkley himself, who then turned to me and said, "So you're the dude who drew me with a pointy head?" It was a classic moment, one that I'll never forget.
You can view the Listen Up! opening on Primal Screen's website (
www.primalscreen.com), in the "Openings" section. The Cocoa Puffs spot is not up on the site yet, but I'm working with the tech guy at Primal about getting a nice quality version available to download soon. I'll let you know as soon I as know anything.
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?I'm pretty happy with what I do in animation, but I do love painting. There's something about real paint on real textured paper. I love it. I need to keep that painter inside of me fresh, but lately he's getting a bit parched. Also, graffiti is a big outlet for me that allows me to look at design, color, characters in a completely new light. I haven't been able to find the time to get out and paint, though.
I'd love to illustrate children's books. That's something that I've been wanting to do ever since I got into the business. Some day I'll all these things. Some day. But me a busy, busy man.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?Be patient. Don't expect to make it big right away, right off the bat. It just doesn't happen like that. There'll be plenty of dues to be paid, so just be prepared for getting down and dirty. I worked at a movie theatre shelling out popcorn to moviegoers for 3 years before I really was able to do anything worthwhile towards my career. And I was in my mid-20's, too!
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?Art is subjective, but if something doesn't look good it's usually because of a lack of basic design principles; composition and balance, clean, effective communication to the viewer -- that sort of thing. If you don't make a connection with the viewer, then your piece has lost its purpose. The same can equally be said of animation, too. In fact, communication is one of the main points of animation.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?I don't want to sound so cliche but I enjoy just hanging out with my wife and kids. They provide me with endless inspiration, not to mention countless hours of amazement and wonder. If I didn't have my wife there right beside me at the end of the day I don't know what I'll do. Go bonkers, I guess.
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?My big three: LOST, Project Runway, and The Office. There's a big hole in my heart that once was saved for Arrested Development. I miss that show. At least there'll always be DVD sets.
Related Links:http://wardomatic.blogspot.comwww.primalscreen.comRecent Work: 
