Alternate Worlds: Interview with environmental concept artist, Noah Bradley

Did you go to art school? How has it influenced your work?

Art schools, actually. RISD & VCU, mainly (I graduated from the latter). Art school definitely had an influence on my work… but I would say that it was more a time of personal exploration and growth than one of following a curriculum to success. I see far too many art students going to school and doing the assignment, expecting to come out of it with all the skills to make it as an artist. You have to study on your own and make it happen for yourself. It ain’t easy, but it’s definitely possible.

How long did it take you to decide what kind of art you wanted to make?

Quite a while! For a long time I wanted to do character concept art, like everyone else out there. But a couple years I took a shot at doing environments and discovered–much to my own great surprise–that I loved it. There was a fullfillment in doing environment paintings that I hadn’t found in character work. I stuck with it and before long I had gotten to a professional level with them. Now they’re all I get hired for (though I am working to expand a bit).

Do you have a creative process?

Definitely, though it does change a bit, as needed. Nearly everything starts in the sketchbook as a messy thumbnail, then a full-color sketch in Photoshop (which could probably be called a speed painting in all reality), and lastly a finished painting. Sometimes I skimp on the prep work for a piece, but I usually end up kicking myself for that. It helps to have a solid foundation to build a picture off of.

What inspires you?

A lot. Nature, artists, movies (I love movies), books, etc. Oh, and student loans. Those things inspire the hell out of me.

Who are your favorite artists?

Albert Bierstadt, Thomas Moran, George Inness, Sargent, Rubens, Rembrandt, and so on and so forth forever. And that’s only the dead guys. Don’t get me started on all of the living artists that are way better than me.

Do you have any artistic goals?

To be the best artist I can possibly be. I have more tangible goals as well, of course. In the short term, I’m looking to return to traditional media for my professional work. I get tired of sitting in front of a computer all day and I miss the feel of a paintbrush in my hand.

A single artistic tool you would take with you to a desert Island, excluding a computer

Pencil & paper. Nothing quite like it.

Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?

Work really, really, insanely, ridiculously absurdly hard. Be smart. Don’t neglect the business side of art. Don’t aim for the bottom of the industry–shoot for the very top. Have a phenomenal portfolio and show it to the right people. Oh, and have fun.

What are your favorite online resources?

Too many to count. I’m active on ConceptArt.org, so I have to plug that. There are also hundreds of other blogs I follow which provide me with daily information and inspiration.

See more on Noah’s website 

Making a mark: Interview with artist, David Collier

Bob Dylan

When did you first know you were an artist?

In the past I was uncomfortable with that title. I think it took until my third year of art school before I fully realized my passion was for the visual arts, and it was something I wanted to devote all my energy into. That was when I became an artist. Although looking back, I think I was considered an artist by others long before that, even in elementary school as the kid who was always drawing.

Did you go to art school? If so, what was the most valuable thing you learned?

I attended the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University (NSCADU), graduating in 2006 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Minor in Drawing. Of all the valuable things that I learned during my time there, the most important thing was to constantly challenge myself with experimentation. Experimenting with ideas and mark-making became essential to my development and confidence.

Narrative

How long did it take to prepare for your first exhibition?

My first exhibition was my solo Grad Exhibition at NSCADU.  The exhibition consisted of four large abstract mixed media pieces that were created over a period of about a year. There were also several busy weeks leading up to opening night, involving printing and distributing invitations, preparing refreshments, and finalizing any details on my pieces.

Do you have a creative process?

Not specifically. Lately I’ve been working towards a representational body of work, so I’ve been obsessively collecting source images from wherever I can find them, to eventually compile, collage, and sketch out a composition. Sometimes a piece can be realized immediately, but lately I’m requiring a greater amount of time to develop pieces, which I think is a product of tackling more serious subject matter.

Mike Duke

How would you describe your work?

My work varies from one series to another, so I have difficulty categorizing it. At art school I had a strong interest in texture and abstraction, influenced by the natural patterns of entropy. I’ve also done a lot of figurative works, from simple line drawings, to more complicated, layered mixed media pieces. Some of it could be described as illustration, while my mixed media pieces are more textured visually, with a broader variety of mark-making and are more at home in a fine arts setting/gallery.
What inspires you?

I’m inspired by everything and anything: nature, people, conversations, books, history, music, and other artists producing really engaging work.  I absorb as much as I can, process it, and take what I need. Being around other artists, discussing art, discussing color, discussing ideas is something that makes me want to jump into my studio get busy. I also feel that art is a valuable tool for social change, and could and should be used to educate and inform an audience. That being said, I’ve recently been inspired by an exposure to a variety of social issues (consumerism, war, political accountability, and environmental issues), and am attempting to address them in a new body of work.

Andy Warhol

Who are your favorite artists?

Ed Pien, Kris Kuksi, John Copeland, Angela Grossman, Graeme Patterson, Eaun Uglow, Jenny Saville, Osvaldo Ramirez Castillo….there’s plenty of others too, it depends who I’m looking at or what’s going on in my life. I’m sometimes equally inspired by artists in other fields, authors, musicians, and film makers.

Do you have any artistic goals?

It would be wonderful to support myself through my art, but I’ve realized that the art community is very competitive, and unfortunately often commercially-driven and not very transparent. I will always be producing art, and know that there will always be an audience who truly appreciate what I’m trying to do. For now, that’s enough.

Evening Towers

What advice would you give to aspiring artists trying to make it?

Be prolific. Go to art openings, go to artist talks, become involved, volunteer, do whatever it takes to participate in your local art community; you’d be surprised at the people you’ll meet, and the opportunities it’ll open.

Find David’s work in his Etsy Shop, and also his website: www.davidcollier.ca.

Inspiring design: Interview with Illustrator and Graphic Designer, Jessica Nolan Billow

When did you first know you had a talent for drawing? 

I always loved to draw, I was quite the “chalker” back in the day. I can remember my brother and sisters wanting to play road in the driveway with our bikes and play cars. We would grab the chalk with the intention of scribbling out a few lines to follow as the road, but when I would take hours meticulously drawing an unnecessarily detailed city scene for us to drive on, they had long ago moved on to another game. I think I may have realized I was good when I was younger, but I didn’t really grasp the idea of real talent until much later in high school. Even then I did not pay much attention to having that talent and just thought of drawing as an outlet for my crazy imagination. I knew myself as a talented athlete who just had a hobby in drawing.

Did you go to art school? 

I did go to art school, but it took 2 years as a Psychology major with a minor in education to figure out that I needed to get back to the creativity of drawing. A friend had seen a doodle and suggested I look into the programs at RIT. That summer going into my junior year, I interviewed at Rochester Institute of Technology in attempt to be accepted as a graphic design student. I was interested in what I had been studying, but when I walked into the building and saw some of the student work hanging along the hallway I was ecstatic! I knew right then that I wanted to be a designer.

How much did your education shape the kind of art you make? 

I was never a trouble maker in school but if there was ever one class that I would butt heads with a teacher it was art class. I would follow the stipulations and rules in what was being asked of me, but I have always liked to push the envelope a little. I refused to create that initial idea, the easy way out, everyone’s right-off-the-bat solution. Looking back, I was probably very frustrating to my high school teachers, but it was reassuring when the tables turned in college and pushing that envelope was a good thing. I think that my education opened up a world of new mediums and an even more detailed thought process in creating art. What many people do not fully grasp is some of the intricacies in portraying an idea and how an audience might “read” it. I find it to be a fascinating puzzle.

What are your favorite mediums? 

I love the computer! You need to be able to use a computer these days, BUT nothing can replace a pencil, pen, and some old fashion paper!

Do you have a specific creative process when you’re working on a project? 

I am a thinker. I used to make my college professors nuts with new projects as other students would come in already started and slowly and consistently complete work. I like to sit and think, and doodle, think, and jot notes, and then that solution comes to me and i’m “in the zone!” I love working on a time crunch with lots of pressure. I have always found it is when I do my best work and I would venture a guess that it is from the crazy, fast-paced, and competitive nature of my past in sports.

How long does it take you to complete a project? 

That is very dependent on a project but I do love the tension of short deadlines. In my own work, for fun, I might create a character in 4 minutes, maybe an hour, or I may create something over the course of a week! Who knows!

What inspires you? 

Aside from my family and friends who inspire me everyday, I would have to say my imagination and the memories of my childhood really influence my work. I love the innocence, whimsy, and complete trust of a child; all fun, no drama, anything can happen kind of mindset. Certainly take on the responsibilities and knowledge you grow with, but to forget about your imagination seems like a pretty boring life to me…

Who are your favorite artists? 

The work of Disney and Pixar is insurmountable….I love their work not just for the characters, but for the development and the story lines. Dr. Seuss’ is forever a favorite, I love the fun of David Catrow’s work, and Tim Burton is a genius.

Computer excluded, What artists tools would you take with you on a deserted Island? 

Aside from a pencil, pen, and paper, I would have to bring a bucket in order to make some pretty cool sandcastles!

Are there any online artists resources you can recommend? 

I love searching through the work in IllustrationMundo.com, some of the feeds on Illustration Island are great, StumbleUpon can be a fun tool for taking a breather and seeing what you can find out there, and twitter is one of my favorites in meeting new artists and being inspired by other peoples work.

You can view more of Jessica’s work at:http://www.imaginizerdesign.com/

T.V, Film and advertising illustrative art: Interview with Paul Shipper

When did you first know you had a talent for drawing? 

From an early age, My family and friends never stopped encouraging me, I would doodle Batman and Robin in my scrapbook, and even though looking back they probably weren’t even that good, everyone kept the encouragement, which pushed me to do it more often.

Did you go to art school? 

Yes, Art College for a couple of years, then University studying illustration for 3 years…

How much did your education shape the kind of art you make? 

Not a great deal if I’m honest, my tutors at University weren’t very motivating. College was a better time for me I got to draw what I wanted, they way I wanted… I always had in mind the sort of illustrations I wanted to make.

What are your favorite mediums? 

Pencils, Acryilic paints and Airbrush

Do you have a specific creative process when you’re working on a project?

Ideas, research, communication with the client and a few notes first, then onto Comprehensive work, sketches, photoshop layouts then onto prep for the final artwork.

How long does it take you to complete a project?

Varies depending on the job, but I like at least a week for a finished illustration, although working for GQ magazine I sometimes had one evening!!

What inspires you? 

The illustrated film posters from yester-year, ala Drew Struzan and Richard Amsel, Old Masters of illustration like JC Leyendecker and Norman Rockwell, also Alphonse Mucha to name but a few

Computer excluded, What artists tools would you take with you on a deserted Island? 
Pencil, knife and large sketchbook, maybe some colour pastels/crayons

Are there any online artists resources you can recommend? 

Websites like The Little Chimp Society are great to keep abreast of current illustrations out there, If you are looking top get into the field of illustration I would seriously recommend www.zero2illo.comand escapefromillustrationisland.com

Paul Shipper’s website: http://www.paulshipper.com

The art of Irony:Interview with editorial illustrator, Scott Dubar

How long have you been drawing? 
Ever since I picked up my first crayon! I started drawing on the wall of my parent’s living room and never looked back…

What is the most challenging part of editorial illustration? 
At this stage in my career the most challenging part is handling all the promotional work; mailing lists, post card samples, keeping up with multiple portfolio and social networking sites. As far as the actual illustration work goes, it really depends on the client’s needs. I’m here to make them glad they hired me, so I’m usually happy to go the extra mile for them.

How do you keep your ideas fresh? 
I never settle for the easy solution to an illustration assignment (unless the client specifically asks for that). Whatever idea I have, I always try to push it a bit further or give it some kind of twist. That’s actually the fun part for me. One of my favorite ways to overcome being stuck is to make a free-flowing list of words associated with the assignment. A lot of great ideas come out of those lists.

Who are your favorite artists?
Charles Addams, Bill Watterson, Jon J. Muth, Glenn Barr have all been big on my list for a long time, among others.

Do you have artistic goals? 
I’m working on my own graphic novel, which I’d love to see published.

You can find more of Scott’s work at http://scottdubar.com

Art on tape: Interview with Erika Iris Simmons, aka iri5

Last year, I found Erika’s amazing art on Flickr and I requested to interview her for my blog. I had to know what inspired her and how she did it. I was floored when I saw the Bruno Mars music video, “Amazing”. I just knew that this had to be IRI5. Well, I do have confirmation from the artist herself(If you don’t believe me, check my twitter @sflowerchild) She did work on this video with some very talented animators. I’m reposting the interview here on IRBMA for all my inspiration junkies.

Where did you grow up?
I grew up mostly in Orlando, FL. I’ve lived in many cities across the US, in the UK, and in the Virgin Islands. Right now I’m based in New York City, working as an independent artist, commissioned by companies and individuals.
When did you start making art?

I have always made collages and painted. My first job was as a face painter at a theme park. I didn’t start making art with the intention to sell it until about two years ago.

Do you have an art degree?

I never studied any formal art in school. I was more into math and science. I got my degree in Russian.

What inspired you to make art from old cassettes?

I was very poor growing up and I have always been fascinated with people who can make things out of strange stuff. When I decided to try to make some money selling artwork, I wanted to use what I had around the house before spending money. lol. I had put some cassettes on top of a blank canvas near my door. Everyday I would glance at the pile as I came and went to work, waiting tables. Then one day, lightning struck.

`

How long does it take to create each piece?

Every project is different. Some pieces take a few days, but most take around a week. Some take months.

How would you categorize your art?

I say that my work is conceptual art. Some of it isn’t “pretty” but I try to always communicate an idea through my work. At least that is what I hope to do. I don’t know enough about art to be able to give a knowledgeable answer!, lol.

What do you want to say with your art?

I want to say that resources abound. If you approach a problem with thought and intention, great things can happen.

What are your artistic goals?

The only goal I have is to keep working. I would love to teach art to children one day.

Where is your art available for purchase?

I have website: www.iri5.com with a small storefront showing my available pieces, but I prefer commissions. I love using cassettes that people send me, like their old mix tapes, to make the work really special. My email is eisimmons@gmail.com for anyone who has questions, comments, or just wants to say “hi.”

Check out iri5′ s flickr page for more amazing art made with non-traditional materials