PAT LEWIS
I'm a 31-year old man-child from Pittsburgh, PA, raised on MAD Magazine, Looney Tunes, and "Peanuts" reprint books. After bouncing around from various part-time and temporary jobs, I eventually managed to make a living as a full-time freelance illustrator. In my spare time (and often when I should be doing other stuff, too), I write, draw, and self-publish my own minicomics, mainly about my two favorite subjects: women and monsters. You can find 'em and lots more on my website:
http://www.lunchbreakcomics.com.
When did you first decide to become an illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?I guess I kind of fell into it. I always thought I'd draw a newspaper comic strip, but after a few years of attempts the submission process got frustrating."I was spending several months working on a submission and sending it to a half-dozen or so syndicates, then when the inevitable rejection letters arrived, I had to start over from scratch. At the time, I was temping to support myself, which I hated, so I started looking around for other ways to make a living with my art. I talked to a few illustrators here in Pittsburgh for advice and they helped me get started. I should stress that since then, I've really grown to appreciate the art form and I'm grateful that I found my way to this career.
Who or what inspires you?Does everyone answer "caffeine"? A couple of hours in my neighborhood coffee shop, sketching and people-watching does wonders. I also read a bunch of creative blogs, make a point to socialize with other cartoonists, and of course, I listen to music constantly-all kinds, but right now I'm really into Wilson Pickett, the Zombies, and Chet Atkins.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?I have a B.A. in English from Penn State, but as an artist, I'm totally self-taught.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?Sometimes I'll take on lower-paying jobs, with the client's understanding that I'll be using the
assignment to experiment with new techniques and styles, just to see what works and what doesn't. I also devote a certain amount of time to just playing around in my sketchbook and in Photoshop, hoping I'll stumble across something cool and different.
What are some of your current projects?I just finished illustrating a series of books for a company that teaches English as a second language to Korean adults, and I'm doing some short comics on a variety of subjects for McGraw-Hill, to use in junior-high textbooks. My other big project is finishing up work on a collection of my own comics, which if all goes well should be out in stores by the end of this year.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?Like most artists I know, I'm pretty critical of my own work and tend to see the flaws more than the good points. So I prefer to focus on what I'm doing next rather than looking back. That said, the "superhero gallery" on my website (
http://www.lunchbreakcomics.com/funstuff.htm) is always fun to work-it's nothing spectacular, just a bunch of quick sketches of my favorite comic
icons drawn (mostly) from memory. Since they're only for fun, they tend to be some of my loosest, most spontaneous work, which I enjoy.
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?Next, I plan to write and draw some full-length graphic novels. Other things on my "to do" list that I may or may not get to include teaching myself to paint with acrylics, learning Illustrator and Flash and maybe starting up a new website or two. I have a ton of ideas, but never enough time.
Any advice to the novice designer/illustrator?I guess the best advice would be to work fast and to always have a bunch of projects going on at once. Meet all your deadlines and be a pleasant person to work with. It seems like most really successful people are the ones who take initiative-if you want to illustrate, say, children's books, write your own. Make productive use of your down-time. I'd like to get better at this myself.
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?For me, a great illustration or piece of design, no matter how abstract, creates (or implies) a unique world that the viewer can't help but want to be a part of. A world where everything is more exciting, better-looking, or more interesting than the one we live in. It draws the eye in and invites it to linger and explore.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?Switching gears often is essential. After I finish a big job, I like to work on something small and fast, maybe something that doesn't involve drawing at all-putting together a mix CD, going out and taking photographs, building a model. It's tempting to want to work constantly, but there's a real value in relaxing and recharging your batteries once in a while, too. Also, going to the movies in the middle of a workday is a great way to remind yourself what a great job this really is.
Finish this sentence. "If I weren't an illustrator I would have been a..."Gosh, I hope I wouldn't still be temping. My next career choice would probably be a writer of some sort, but that's just as risky as being a freelance illustrator, so who's to say if I would have been successful at that by now?
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?NBC's Thursday night sitcom lineup is pretty great, though I hope they bring back "30 Rock" soon. Letterman and Conan I guess aren't technically "prime time" but they come on when I'm usually ready to knock off work for the night, so they're prime time for my schedule, anyhow.
Related Links: http://www.lunchbreakcomics.comLabels: Pat Lewis
ANNA WOLTZ
I'm a California girl who just moved to Denver for the most brutal winter Colorado has seen in decades! The bright spot is that in leaving our long-time home of Los Angeles, I was able to depart from TV animation (where I worked for 7 years) to pursue freelance illustration full time. I paint in acrylic, gouche, and occasionally in Photoshop.
When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?
I worked for many years in animation production, with my art on the backburner. Then in 2004, I took a trip to Tokyo as part of a group art show. My husband and I traveled around with the illustrator team Kozyndan and through them met pcp (Heisuke Kitazawa & Rikako Yamada). They had been drawing & writing their own children's picture books in Japan, and their work was extremely inspiring. We became fast friends and Rikako soon asked me to collaborate on a book with her. The project started as an emailed story she wrote, and ended 1 year later with a fully self-published children's book, The Unordinary Elephant, illustrated by me!
Check it out on Amazon.comThe process was invigorating and inspired me to pursue illustration more seriously.
Who or what inspires you?
I collect kids books, so of course I love Maurice Sendak. I also love Craig Thompson for his cute style and melancholy tone, and William Morris for design and color. I'm not really sure how much shows up in my work, but I'm a huge sci-fi/fantasy geek - I'm obsessed with George R R Martin and Neal Stephenson. I'm also very excited by the current art blogging culture - I love the intimacy of all those talented artist blogs out there.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?
As a kid, animation had always been my biggest dream, but rather than going to art school, I chose film school. USC taught me a lot about entertainment, and that is how I ended up working in TV animation, at Fox Kids and Nickelodeon. Though I did not go to art school, I consider all of the inspiration, advice, and mentoring I received from the artists I worked with at Nick to be my training. I am very lucky to have been nurtured in that environment.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?
I try to force myself to stretch and see where else my style can take me, so new mediums definitely help break me out of creative ruts. I also keep a giant folder labeled "inspiration" and any time I see something cool in a magazine, book, or online, I stick it in there to help keep ideas flowing.
What are some of your current projects?
I have been doing a lot of commissioned paintings lately. I'm also working on a new preschool comic book series, which I'm really excited about. I'm hoping the idea is breaking new ground for the comic book format by targeting much younger kids - they will be educational and follow my character WonderToast and his band of food-based friends. I hope to have the first issue ready in time for ComicCon in San Diego this July!
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?
I'd have to go back to my children's book, The Unordinary Elephant - it taught me so much! I not only illustrated the book, but handled every aspect of self-publishing. There are definitely some things I might have designed differently now that I look back, but the experience was invaluable. We've really had a great response, selling in Asia, Europe, Australia, and all over the US. I'm also rather pleased with my new website,
www.wondertoast.com, which I designed and programmed after torturing myself on GoLive!
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?
I'm just getting started with comics, so that will be a fun new format to work in. I'm really hoping to get involved with publishers to illustrate more children's books! Plus, I'm interested in working with parenting and pre-school magazines for editorial work.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?
Don't be afraid to get feedback from people you admire.
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?
A great response. Blogging has become an indispensable way to get feedback throughout the creative process. I've found it to be very helpful in figuring out what works and what doesn't.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?
I read all the time, I love to visit museums (not just fine art museums, but natural history and science museums too). I'm also really inspired by gallery hopping and wandering around outside, especially in gardens. I think it is also really helpful to get together with other artists for feedback, networking, and support.
Finish this sentence. "If I weren't a designer/illustrator I would have been a..."
TV Animation Producer...or at least I was quickly on my way to becoming one before leaving LA. That path is challenging and exciting, but illustrating is rewarding in a whole different way. Haha, you were probably looking for a fantasy answer though - so Marine Biologist!
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?
I am addicted to Veronica Mars and Battlestar Galactica. Both shows are not afraid to do something different, reinventing themselves as time goes on. Creatively speaking, I really admire a willingness to adapt rather than stagnate in the same formula.
Related Links:
http://www.wondertoast.comhttp://wondertoast.blogspot.comLabels: Anna Woltz
PILAR ERIKA JOHNSON
Pilar's clients say she's a superstar with good reason. Her sense of humor from working as a kids art teacher for 10 years, coupled with her love for pop culture help inspire her edgy, cute, and whimsical illustration and design style. In addition to working freelance gigs for such clients as Charles Schwab, Comcast, and Hewlett Packard, Pilar also holds the "Chief PUFF" title at PUFFY P, her company focused on licensing art for the teen and tween market.
When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?I don't think there was a pivotal moment in my decision to do illustration and design, but more of a gradual push in that direction. My mom was an artist / graphic designer and toy package designer for companies in Manhattan in the 70's - 80s when I was growing up, so I must have been somewhat subconsciously attracted to it through her work.
I always was interested in art, and liked to draw and get crafty. I studied art through high school and college, but I think I really got serious about it as a job 8-9 years ago, when temping as a receptionist for Macromedia (I live here in San Francisco) . I had internet access all day long (which was a novelty for me then), and started looking at web sites. I didn't know how to do any coding or use any of the graphics programs, but i had ideas on how to make the sites more clearly organized, and more attractive. I started using Freehand and taught myself HTML with a 'how to' book. Soon after that, I was able to get web design jobs, and start working as a web designer. At the time I was also working as a kids art teacher, which I did for about 10 years in New York, and here in San Francisco. I kept catching colds from the kids, and could much more easily pay my rent with design, so I soon fully switched to web design. I liked working with the kids though, that was fun.
Who or what inspires you?I just love kitchy stuff. I think I am inspired by a lot of things that seem funny or extreme to me from pop culture. I LOVE monster trucks, and machismo sports like lumberjack championships, moustache growing contests, things like that. I also am crazy for teen pop culture, and good kids cartoons, like Samurai Jack. I subscribe to several teen mags and enjoy the design sensibility of a lot of kids and teens media - bright, bold, colorful, and trendy.... and well, David Hasselhoff entertains me to no end. He is hysterical, he makes me laugh - hard.
I also research a lot, look at work and products I like, window-shop, and get out in nature and exercise.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?A lot of my skills are self taught, mixed in with formal training. I'm pretty self motivated and take on self directed projects often. My tech skills are mostly self taught, sometimes taking a short class here and there. My traditional art skills I picked up from studying Life Drawing and Studio Art (Photography, Jewelry, Ceramics, Printmaking) in college at Hunter College in NY. Right now I've been feeling really rusty in the drawing / anatomy area, and am taking a life drawing class to brush up on my skills. It's nice to get away from the computer and not rely on it so much. It's in a cool old building in the middle of Golden Gate Park so that's really nice.
http://www.sharonartstudio.org/How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?I really enjoy looking at current trends in clothing, urban culture, and kids and teens media. There is a lot of good design stuff going on there, in certain publications like Cosmo Girl!, and on channels like Nickelodeon, etc. Those outlets have to be trendy and edgy and cool, which I like. Also the kids and teens stuff tends to be brighter and use bolder colors than most ofther markets, which I like too.
Also I watch a lot of commercials, and study ads. There is of course a lot of noise and crap, but some of the most creative stuff is happening in the commercials. The limits are pushed a bit more, IMHO.
What are some of your current projects?I've spent the last year or so building my brand of art for licensing, PUFFY P, so I've been pretty busy with that, creating art and doing the business and marketing stuff around that ( writing press releases, designing sales materials, calling potential clients ).. PUFFY P a collection of several different lines of art and character properties, mostly aimed at teens, tweens, and kids (see more at
http://www.PUFFYP.com) . I launched the brand at the Licensing Show in NY back in June 2006, and got my first licensing deal for mobile content (woopie!). I am developing some of the lines for use in animation, and other markets like paper products, apparel, among others. I'm firming up the brand for the 2007 show, and working on getting some more deals signed.
I also do a bunch of freelance illustration and graphic design. Currently just finished a few characters for some tv spots, and working on an identity package (print and web) for a Therapist's office.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why? Last year I did a poster for a Tiffany concert here in town. Yes, for the 80's Tiffany "I think we're alone now". Since I am such a pop culture dork, you can imagine my excitement about it. I sold my posters at the event, and I got to meet her after the show. She hugged me, signed my poster, and squealed about how much she LOVED it, and how perfect it was, what I captured in the drawing of her, etc. That was pretty fun , and made me feel proud that I hit the nail on the head with that one.
http://www.pilaromatic.com/tiffany.htmlMy first PUFFY P deal was pretty exciting, I signed a deal with Berazy Mobile Entertianment, and they are now distributing 80+ images internationally to their partners. You can see some of the images here:
http://www.puffyp.com/images/mobile/lt_dice_lucky.gifhttp://www.puffyp.com/images/mobile/pp_leo_surfsup_240x320.jpghttp://www.puffyp.com/images/mobile/pg_purse_shop.gifAlso getting a few press write ups over the last 6 months on the PUFFY P brand was really exciting for me. I learned the power of the press release! You can read some of the articles here
http://www.puffyp.com/news_press_puffyp.htmlhttp://www.puffyp.com/press/license_male_9_06.jpghttp://www.puffyp.com/press/giftwarenews_7-06.jpgAre there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?I want to do a bit more with texture, and with decorative delicate vector flourishes, surrounding a bolder image, or being used in a background. I also want to do a bit more realistic work. Hopefully my drawing classes will help with that.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?I think you have to have faith, and really learn all you can. Be willing to put the time in to build your portfolio and figure out your personal style. Also, don't listen to those people who are discouraging. Even after drawing for my entire life, I had some "friends" who said discouraging things, but that was really all about their own doubts around making a living from art and creativity. For me learning the technical skills was really key, because I made a living as a web / graphic designer before moving into more illustration. Those design skills really help in doing all your promotions, etc.
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?So many things, but mostly for me, a sense of balance and good composition is the most important. Color is also really key for me, ie trying to create some kind of balance or feeling with my color use. I can see perfection and beauty in other peoples work even without having an emphasis on color, I just get hung up with that in my own work. Also since I work in Illustrator, I am a bit obsessed about clean edges and tight design.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?I have way more ideas than I can devote time to, or complete. Lately I've had to really prioritize, and focus on just the most important ones. I work on not getting to scattered and remembering my focus by making prioritized lists. I also have to be careful to not overwork, and make sure I get enough sleep and downtime, and take breaks.
I am very motivated by seeing things out in the world that I want to be a part of or are personal goals of my own that someone else has achieved.
I also try to be as positive and encouraging to myself as I can be, and take time to do things that are fun and interesting to me, see my friends, watch TV, see art and events I like, and surf the web.
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?I love love love 24. I'm completely hooked.
Related Links:http://www.pilaromatic.comhttp://www.PUFFYP.com/Recent Work:
Labels: Pilar Erika Johnson
CLAIRE HUGHES
This is me, Claire Hughes. A 27 year old artist living in Berkshire, UK with my husband Dylan.
I have wanted to be an illustrator since I was very young and used to copy cartoon characters from comic books and cereal boxes. I love the way a whole new character can appear, just from making a few marks on a piece of paper.
My career started at 16, when I sold my first portrait painting. It began when I drew our lovely Labrador dog. The pastel drawing was placed proudly on the wall by my parents. As family and friends came round to visit, they saw the work and asked me to do commissions for them. Very quickly interest grew and the work snowballed at a rate I found difficult to keep up with.
Although I always find it a huge privilege to be asked to paint/draw portraits for people, I find it far too restricting. I usually get asked because of the sensitivity towards the work and being able to achieve a good likeness from the subject matter. With these objectives already set my artistic license was hugely limited.
This is why I want to put my portraiture work behind me and carry on a different route as an illustrator. I don’t want to stop drawing characters; I just want to draw those extreme characters that don’t appear in the ‘real world’!!
When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?It has been something I’ve wanted to do for as early as I can remember.
Not so long ago I lost someone very close to me. A short time after that I passed my driving test and got married (both of which were a long time coming!). Becoming an illustrator is just the next logical step for me. It’s that old cliché, ‘life is short. You have to make the most of it!’
I’m finding it very hard to say no to people who want a portrait, but I have to. There are plenty of good portrait artists and photographers out there. It’s time for me to concentrate on what I want to do!
Who or what inspires you? I can be inspired by anything, the characters that surround me, the irregularities of nature. Inspiration comes in different degrees, depending on where it comes from and how you are feeling at the time. Many times I have been inspired to a degree that will keep me up throughout the night. Watching a great action film; spending time with my two year old niece; visiting new cities. The challenge is focusing all that inspiration onto a piece of paper in an original way.
However, there is one particular person who stands out in my mind. A tutor and fine artist that I met at college, Ian Humphreys. He had an amazing drive and enthusiasm for art and his teaching.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?Both….I have been drawing since I could hold a pen, so a great deal is self taught. I was drawing and selling portraits before having any training. Now a great deal of my creative time is spent using computer packages, which I also taught myself to do.
The only training I’ve had was when I spent a year in Berkshire College of Art & Design, on a foundation course. There we touched upon Photography, Fine Art, Graphic Design and the History of Art. A year seems a very short time, but within that time I learnt things that I have found invaluable. A new way to look at the world!
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?Research!
Subscribing to relevant magazines/websites; picking up tips from books and other artists.
What are some of your current projects? I have just finished a project for a company called Audio Trails. Creating characters to promote their product on their website. My next project is for The Piano and Keyboard Studio, illustrating a book that teaches kids how to play the instruments.
It is still early days for me as an illustrator so any spare time I have goes towards creating a new portfolio and website.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? I think the work I am most proud of has been for charity or commemorative events.
One piece of work that comes to mind was a presentation piece sent out to Bosnia, for trainers and their sniffer dogs that searched for bombs.
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?I would love to have a go at using Maya and other computer packages designed specifically to create 3D characters and worlds. Also, I had a go at air brushing (the non digital type!) years ago and think I will have to purchase one very soon.
Any advice to the novice designer / illustrator?I feel like it should be me asking that question!
However, there are some practises that I have continued through the transition of portrait artist to illustrator.
It’s always good to walk away from your art and come back with fresh eyes. I do this by working on more than one piece at a time. Another way to get a new perspective of your work is to look at it in a mirror. It’s surprising how different your work can look in its reflection.
A tip which many creative people would recommend is to carry a notebook/sketchbook around with you. You never know when you are going to come up with a new idea!
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?Really depends on what it is for. If the work is for advertising, then it has to grab the attention of the viewer. For illustrating magazines it has to fit in with the style and entice people to read the article it relates to. Children’s illustrations work well if they’re colourful and imaginative. I don’t think there is one thing that makes a piece successful in general, but being original will help you stand out from the crowd.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?I think it is always good to take time out even with a tight deadline. You have to try and make the time. Get a good nights rest. Do some exercise, eat well!
It’s so easy to be sat at your drawing board or computer for long hours at a time, eating anything at hand. For me if I don’t feel fresh and exhilarated I know my work is going to suffer. It just means I’m going to have to touch it up at a later date. I have learnt that I work best at night, so I will go to bed late and get up late. My spare time is usually the hours before I start work. I think that this is also what keeps me motivated, because I have already spent a few hours walking around shops, speaking to people, watching films….something has already inspired me for my next appointment with the drawing board!
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now? TV really irritates me at the moment. These reality shows have taken over. I loved them when they first started but the novelty for me wore off a long time ago. I think the only thing that I make sure I wouldn’t miss is Prison Break.
Saying that…I love watching films. Even when I’m working I’ll stick a film on in the background. I’m one of these people that can’t stand working in silence!
Related Links:
www.dapperdazzle.co.ukRecent Work:
Labels: Claire hughes
DOUG JONES
Hi, my name is Doug Jones and I am a freelance illustrator. I live near Nashville, TN and own two guitars, one banjo, one ukulele... and can't play any of them very well. I create humorous illustrations. My work seems to appear in publications for children a lot. Go figure. I created a character based on my sock monkey that I like to use in drawings that I do just for fun. You will see him in some examples later. Well, I think I am now required to answer some questions for you... off we go.
When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?A pivotal moment? Hmmm... that was probably when I was a freshman electrical engineering major in college. I remember taking a chemistry test where I sat for an hour looking at a test and knowing NOTHING! I managed to write down a formula for something and was given 12 points for the effort. That was my score... 12 out of a possible 100 points. After the test, I walked to the proper building and dropped the class. Then I started making plans to transfer to a different college and change my major. One of the best decisions of my life!
Who or what inspires you?I am inspired by lots of things. As I have been thinking about this question, I have come to realize that I am inspired by just about anything I see that is done really well. I mean, REALLY well. I think it makes me want to do something REALLY well, too. I wander around local art shows, craft fairs, galleries, and museums when I get the opportunity. I could list my favorite illustrators, and editorial and comic strip cartoonists heroes of mine, but that would be a long list... spanning decades. There are some things that continue to inspire me over and over. Anything with good humor like Wallace and Gromit, the Muppets, or any Pixar movie makes me want to create FUN stuff. I could probably ramble on and on here, but I think you get the idea. Next question...
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?I have a BFA in Commercial Art which got me my first design job in the art department of a publishing house. I put some of my illustrations in the materials I was designing. Then did some illustrations for other designers. After a few years, I had evolved into a staff illustrator, doing humorous illustrations full time. My drawing ability is basically self-taught. I always liked to draw. As a wee lad, I entertained myself by copying comic strips in the paper. I tried some more realistic illustration in the beginning, but realized that I liked humor and funny stuff, so I stuck with that.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?I used to go to bookstores all the time and look at magazines and books... anything with illustration in it. I still do this, but now it is much easier to find things online. I have found that there are tons of artists, animators, painters, and illustrators, who have blogs. Blogs are great! There is so much talent out there! New things get posted every day, and seeing them inspires me. It also depresses me... but we won't go there right now.
What are some of your current projects?Currently, I am working on some books for Scholastic. They produce series of books to help first grade teachers teach things like phonics, punctuation, grammar, and numbers. The books are perfect for me... fairly small and fun to work on.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?See above answer... then see images below.
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?I started illustrating with watercolors. Now I scan my inked drawings into Photoshop and add color. I have Painter and would really like to know how to use it... but haven't had the time to figure it out yet. In the last couple of years I have been trying to learn to paint with oils. It is a struggle... but a fun struggle. It has taught me some things about color that I can apply to my illustrations. Computers are SO neat and clean... and oil paint is SO messy. I always end up with oil paint on me, but I don't think I have ever had digits smeared all over my shirt.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?I think this is where I am supposed to say things like, "work really hard and never give up." But my advice is... give up now! Go sell insurance. I don't need the competition.
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?I would say that if an illustration COMMUNICATES what it was intended to, to its audience, and I was able to make it fun and entertaining to look at... then it is successful.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?I take all of my bills and stack them up in front of me. The higher the stack gets... the more motivated I become... and who has time for burn-out?
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?Lost.
Related Links:My portfolio can be found at:
http://www.dougjonesart.comHere is my blog:
http://jonesapalooza.blogspot.com/I hang out with my brothers on our shared website:
http://www.brotherjones.com/Recent Work:
Labels: Doug Jones
VERN MERCADO
My mom constantly reminds me of when I was a young and asked to sleep, she caught me under my covers with a flashlight and a sketch pad in order to keep drawing. I’ve always loved to draw. It’s been my passion. And like an old friend, drawing has always been by my side. We go through life’s journey together.
When I was a kid, my father was in the U.S. Navy so we traveled a lot. We finally settled down in Jacksonville, Florida when he retired. My parents wanted me to be an engineer. I wanted to be an artist. So, we compromised and I went to architecture school. After graduation, in pursuit of “the big city” and a passion for my artwork, I moved to San Francisco. There I found neighborhood street fairs, art museums, theater, and architecture that inspired me. That was nearly twenty-five years ago and I haven’t moved since. I have no regrets, although, I do miss my folks because it’s a long way from Jacksonville to San Francisco.
Since then, I’ve worked at several architectural firms. I draw buildings. The drawings are put together carefully and with great attention to detail. In the evenings, I draw my cartoons. The artwork here is quite different then what I produce during the day. I play with my art supplies like a child in a sandbox. The drawings are put together quickly and a lot of energy. Both worlds, as different as they are, contribute towards my artistic development.
Currently, I am a project manager for HDO Architects & Planners, Inc., a northern California architectural firm. I also draw my humorous illustrations and animation whenever I can. I live in Concord, California with my wife Lucille and daughter Genevieve. I hope my work inspires you!
Blogsite:
www.vernscartoons.comWebsite:
www.2danimator.comWhen did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment? The magic of drawing has always fascinated me because with the slight of hand … BLAM! I could move mountains. There really was never a pivotal moment to become an illustrator because I’ve always loved to draw. Like many of the illustrators interviewed on this blog, I’m the kid who never really excelled at sports or academics but put a pencil and piece of paper in front of me, well now, that is a different story. I could stay occupied for hours.
Who or what inspires you?Of course, I have to start with my wife Lucille and daughter Gennie. They bring much joy and love to my life which I try to show in my drawings. We inspire each other as together we sketch in coffee shops and drawing groups.
Through the years, I’ve collected a great deal of art books that inspire me. San Francisco is known for its coffee shops and used book stores. I own probably enough books to last a lifetime but somehow I always find room for another. Among my favorite artists found in these books: Ronald Searle, Paul Hogarth, Ralph Steadman, Dave Cooper and Robert Crumb (to name a few).
Podcasts have also inspired me. I especially enjoy the
http://www.theartoferik.com/iconic podcast. Erik J. Olsen has created podcasts that in his words are “by, for, and about illustrators”. I’ve downloaded all of his interviews into my ipod and hook it up to my car stereo wherever I go. That’s all I ever listen to these days and if you’re like me, it’s a good excuse to finally go out and buy that expensive ipod.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?For illustration: I’m pretty much self-taught. For design: I went to the University of Florida for my architecture degree and Diablo Valley College for my multimedia.
Through the years, I’ve tried to take at least one college course per semester. The courses keep my brain fresh and it feels good to know I improve with every year. My theory has always been: as tax payers, we contribute millions of dollars into the community college system each year. Why not get our moneys’ worth, right? I believe the system works. Whenever I’m curious about any topic at all, I take a college course. Sometimes, without knowing anything about a topic, by the end of the course, I become an expert. That’s priceless. Especially in this day and age, with the digital explosion, I’ve taken classes just to keep up. I realized no one could ever have the time, patience, or resources to sit down with me and teach me all this stuff (not even my best buddy at work). College teachers are so incredibly knowledgeable, dedicated, and teach in a structured way. They taught me the right way and in the tenth of the time then if I were to learn it on my own. They’re there for you. So, take a class!
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?I get most of my inspiration from art-blogs. About a year ago, I created artwork but never knew how to share it. Then I read a magazine article about blogging. After seeing how easy it was to start my blog account (
www.blogger.com) and upload to it, I was hooked! I was no longer an oyster and I no longer had the excuse to create unshared artwork. Overnight, I was communicating with artists from all over the world. We all speak a language that needs no words: our art. I’ve heard somewhere that we artists are the happiest people on earth. It’s a great time to be an artist!
Oh yeah, and did I mention blogging is all for free? Yep.
What are some of your current projects? I continue to submit artwork to websites like
www.illustrationfriday.com and
www.sugarfrostedgoodness.com whenever I can. Also, I’ve been preparing gallery pieces for a local art show coming up in March. It will be my first show so I’m pretty excited about that. It’s been a lot of fun drawing for “me” for a change.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?My biggest achievement is my Mad Magazine assignment. Here’s my submission for “Desmond the Bungling Bomber”. I was the artist. Duck Edwing was the writer. The magazine publisher put our styles together. Being a Mad Magazine artist fulfilled a lifelong dream. Here’s the link:
http://www.2danimator.com/animation/pages/mad.htmHere’s another. It’s a PSA that I drew for Project Open Hand I drew for a class. Check this one out:
http://www.2danimator.com/animation/pages/open.htmAre there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?I’m currently developing ideas for a comic strip revolving around my Filipino-American heritage. Many cartoonists have said to draw on a topic that you can be enthusiastic and knowledgeable about. I feel it is important to celebrating my culture and carry it on to the next generations. In order to know where we’re going, we have to know where we’ve been.
I’d also like to keep creating my web cartoons. The process of hand-drawn 2danimation takes a long time but seeing the end result makes all the efforts seem worthwhile!
For my favorite animation, here’s “Fido’s Revenge”:
http://www.2danimator.com/animation/pages/MONSTER_gif.htmHere’s the link to my cartoons that I’ve completed so far. They are all truly a labor of love. Enjoy:
http://www.2danimator.com/animation/index.htmAny advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?Draw every day in your sketchbook and your drawings will inevitably become stronger. Take the knowledge that you’ve learned from one drawing and take it onto the next. Do what you love to do, be an individual and your style will inevitably shine. Be patient. When you finally find your individual style - run up to the tallest hill and sing at the top your lungs: “I did it my way! Yippeee!!”
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?“Being in the Zone” is when I go through my entire illustration process and not go backwards due to a dumb mistake. That is success. I try to always go forward. It’s taken some practice, but when it happens, I know. Hours just melt away because I become so focused. It’s sort of like a trance. Scary stuff but cool!
The true measure of a good illustration is how it makes me feel inside when I complete it. If it pleases “me”, then I know it will please my client and audience.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?To keep motivated, I carry around my sketchbook and watercolor set wherever I go. My college art teacher taught me to always carry around a sketchbook and let it be an extension of my arm. Whether in a coffee shop, standing in a long line, or waiting for a show to begin, I draw! Whenever I get a paid illustration assignment, there have been several occasions that I’ve thumbed through my sketchbooks for a certain image I’ve drawn in the past. Each sketch brings up memories of a certain time or event. Sometimes, I get inspired in the middle of the night so I keep a sketchbook by my bedside. I get my best ideas through dreams which I later animate.
I join weekend sketch groups to keep me motivated. We meet on the weekends and sketch all day together. I’ve met many friends this way. Check out
www.sketchcrawl.com to see if a group meets near you. After sketching all day, I feel invigorated and a feeling similar to returning from a weekend retreat. Sometimes it’s hard to come back down to earth (reality).
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now? I really enjoy reality shows. My schedule is quite busy but whenever I can, I try to watch some MTV in order to stay current. I think they do a pretty good job of them. For example: MTV’s “My Sweet Sixteen” show kids when they celebrate their debutantes (sixteenth year birthday parties). The main characters are from these super rich families that plan these outrageously huge parties - so huge that the price of the parties looks more like telephone numbers!
Bravo Network’s “Project Runway” is another family favorite. Clothing designers are assigned design challenges at the beginning of the show that must be completed and shown by the end. The cameras follow the designers from sketchpad to runway until the judges debate over the final designs. I like the show because I enjoy the design process. The show emphasizes the fundamental principles for all design: design starts with a pencil and you must be true to yourself in order to please others.
Thanks for visiting, it’s been fun. I hope you’ve enjoyed the interview.
Related Links:www.vernscartoons.comwww.2danimator.comRecent Work:
Labels: Vern Mercado
MATTIAS ADOLFSSON
My name is Mattias Adolfsson, I live in Gothenburg with a wife and two kids. I work at a game studio as a senior Artist, but aim to start working as an illustrator/artist on a freelance basis some time this year.
I have a blog that I update at an insane basis:
http://mattiasa.blogspot.com/
and a home site that I haven't updated for quite some time:
http://www.mattiasadolfsson.se/When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?There was no pivotal moment, I just gradually fell into it, I've been drawing all my life but didn't think you could live off it, and I still don't. ;)
Who or what inspires you?I'm inspired by what I see and hear in our world, I read quite a lot off books, I scan the web regularly. I used to see a lot of films as well but tend not to do that so much any more, I'm losing touch with the times.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?I've got a Master of Fine arts in graphic design, but most of my drawing skills are self taught. The education was directed on design rather than illustration.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?Well this is a hard one, I'm working in the game industry and most of my work is not very creative. The time I have for my creativity is focused on my free time. So for the keeping fresh part is to be outside of the industry.
What are some of your current projects?At the moment it's pretty slow. I'm waiting for a couple of interesting projects to happen though, one is a music video, a project that is very exciting. I hope to be able to focus on a book that I'm planning.
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why? I was pretty satisfied with an illustration I did for a publication this autumn, the theme was the future, I kept on with this for quite a long time, and I had to add some extra paper in order to get it all in.
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?I would like to try traditional animation, but I know how time consuming it can be. I've worked a lot with 3d animation and I'm not so keen on doing a personal project with it at the moment. Hopefully if the music video fall through I'll be involved with moving media.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?Try to find a personal style but don't get stuck in it, progress is good.
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?Hard to explain in word as it's so subjective, I get bored easy with a lot of conceptual work, warriors and scant dressed woman. It's good to get a new view on a traditional theme, something new.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?This is a hard one I'm rather bored with my work and I see illustration as a way out of it.
And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?Well in order to be able to draw I tend to skip television or if I watch draw at the same time, I will have to say a Swedish program Musikministeriet and Musikbyrån, my wife and I have a soft spot for English produced crime series as well.
Related Links:http://mattiasa.blogspot.com/
http://www.mattiasadolfsson.se/Recent Work:
Labels: Mattias Adolfsson
DAVID HABBEN
My name is David Habben and I'm an illustrator/designer living and working in Salt Lake City, UT. Currently, I work with a group of amazing creative artists at a company called Struck, where we basically make a habit of blowing people's minds. When I'm not in the office, I'm in the home office, illustrating for magazines, children's books and the occasional gallery show, or burning through a pair of running shoes on a beautiful Wasatch trail. I've been truly blessed in my life by not only being able to do what I love for a living, but also to be surrounded by family and friends who encourage my efforts.
When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?I've always wanted to be involved with the arts, whether it be music, drama, or visual arts. As I've pursued my goals, the most success has come within visual work. Time has a way of helping you decide your dream I suppose. The combination of designer/illustrator is one of those titles that you have to absorb in order to get a paycheck, but I still just consider myself an artist. Unfortunately, that idea isn't always readily accepted as viable, so it's a toss up really. Bottom
line: I like to make stuff.
Who or what inspires you?My greatest inspiration comes from the idea that everything can be different. If we always assume that things are the way they are because they have to be, we're limiting ourselves to what's been done. Every sunrise is inspiration to try something new. Music has been a great vehicle for new ideas and messages, while at the same time offering enough recycled sounds to make it familiar. Live concerts are especially inspiring because you can hear and see the emotion of the band. Some of my favorite work has been inspired by the faces in the crowds I been a part of. I also love to read, especially history. I just finished a book on diamonds and I can't get it out of my head.
Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?My "training" started at home with a box of crayons and an extremely supportive family. The crayons are long gone, but the family has been my strongest artistic foundation. We all enjoy art, music, reading, and education. I was also fortunate enough to have supportive teachers most of the time through school. I attended Boise State University and Brigham Young University and learned valuable lessons from each school. Additionally, my friends are a continual source of inspiration and support to me, especially on the down time between projects when I wonder why I started drawing in the first place. They, like my family, have been invaluable to my work and success.
How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?"Fresh" to me just means someone started liking your work. Someone can be drawing the same stick figure for twenty years, only to be discovered as fresh. I try to be aware of what's going on in the arts through galleries and annuals. There is no shortage of amazing artists and at times it can be really daunting, but I firmly believe that if you push yourself to try new things, you'll come up with a form of unique expression. Then, one day some one will see and call you "fresh." Of course, the problem with being labeled fresh is that it comes with an expiration date…
What are some of your current projects?I've just started working with a children's educational publisher in Virginia creating illustrations for textbook lessons. It's a wonderful feeling to know that my work is being created for the intent of education. I've also been working on putting together a small show locally and, as always, trying to get my own books written and published. Plus, I've got this great drawing in the works that would make a great poster or CD cover. It should show up on my blog soon…
Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?I've been really fortunate to have been a part of some great projects and events. In high school I provided work for a march against AIDS and in college made posters for an anti-bullying program in local junior high schools. Last year, I was able to design the layout for a magazine that focuses on micro-loans to impoverished countries and as I read through the material, I was able to learn the incredible effects these loans are having. Like the educational work I do, I find the greatest satisfaction in creating work that helps people to be more aware of the world around them, and the possibilities within them.
Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?The day I run out of new things to try is the day I quit artwork all together. Actually, it's probably the day I quit breathing to. More specifically, I'd love to do some large sculptural work, mainly for the fun of fabricating it. That's not illustration, but it could certainly incorporate some. I'd also like to work more on different textures, i.e. rusted metal splintering wood, any surface that could interact with the imagery to produce an overall message.
Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?Be yourself. Anybody can learn to copy a style or technique, so don't waste your education (however you're getting it) trying to be someone else. Even if at the end of the day you can say, "I copied this master exactly." so what? Innovate and be remembered. With that in mind, I would also say, work, work, work. Take a variety of jobs, both reelance and otherwise. Every experience will add to your skill-set and your imagination.
What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?Fundamentals. The best idea in the world is going to fail if fundamental principles of design and craftsmanship are ignored. Even he most abstract piece of art will be successful if it applies techniques that communicate to the viewer. So often we see pieces that are designed well, or intricately drawn, but fail because they ignore some aspect of formal principles of communication. I've heard it said that we must learn the rules in order to break them. I would much rather learn the rules in order to use them effectively. Of course, I would never have said that in school…
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?
I love to run and be active. If I'm having a hard time getting my mind straight, I have to get outside, the further from the city the better. Recently, I went snowshoeing for the first time on a full-moon night in the mountains. It was incredible and I came back full of ideas. On a less active level, I keep a sketchbook. What's unique about my sketchbook, though, is that I've learned to break a rule I was always taught: I tear out useless pages. At times, my sketches are useless, lacking craft and thought, so I tear them out of the book. That way, if and when I refer to my sketchbooks, I know that what I find will be worth using. Museum visits are also very helpful, as well as, an active social life.
And finally, what is the best thing on prime time TV right now?I'm lame or something because I haven't watched prime-time TV in a while. My TV watching usually occurs in the wee hours of the morning, post workout. So, I'd say, turn off the tube, have a chat with the fam or grab a good book.
Related Links:www.habbenink.comwww.habbenink.blogspot.comwww.struckcreative.comRecent Work:
Labels: David Habben
