CHRIS WAHL

Chris Wahl is an Australian based artist who currently freelances in illustration and commercial art. A self-confessed 'jack-of-all-trades', Chris' well-rounded portfolio encompasses a variety of styles such as caricature, comicbook work, digital painting and 3D illustration. He has worked for a broad range of clients including Lucasfilm, MAD magazine, Pepsi and Greenpeace.

http://chriswahlart.blogspot.com/



When did you first decide to become an illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?

For me there was more than one pivotal moment on the road to becoming an illustrator. But the first that comes to mind was when I was 9 years old and E.T. was the hottest movie around. I would spend every imaginable moment drawing that ugly little alien for all my classmates. Eventually the teacher photocopied one of my E.T. drawings for everyone in the class to colour in. I think that's the moment where I caught the bug...





Who or what inspires you?

Movies have always been a big source of inspiration. As a kid, Star Wars and The Dark Crystal inspired me to no end.

These days the internet and the whole 'global village' phenomenon is just mind-blowing. Everyday I stumble upon another fantastic artist's blog or website from some far off corner of the globe. And being able to communicate with most of them through forums and exchange ideas and critiques is very inspiring.




Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?

I'm self-taught in that I never went to college or took drawing lessons. However, between my extensive library of art books and the 'education' I received while working at Disney animation with such a great variety of artists from all walks of life, I don't think I missed much.




How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?

With the advertising industry, keeping fresh is the only way to stay on top in the business. It can be a very fickle industry at times and it's easy for one's drawing style to become old very quickly. So for me, my personal interest in constantly evolving and pushing many different styles in my art, has been very beneficial for me and my work.




Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?

Definitely the Chewbacca piece I recently did for Lucasfilm and Acme Archives. I can still remember the goosebumps from the day I read the email inviting me to contribute. I was on cloud nine all day. But it wasn't an easy job and that's one of the reason I'm so proud of it. Besides the privilege of working on a dream job, I felt I had really stepped up to the challenge, worked hard and pushed my abilities to their limits.

To see what was involved you can read the walkthrough, 'Building a Wookiee' over at my blog.




What are some of your current projects?

Due to the very positive response to my Chewie piece, I've been asked to do more Star Wars related pieces. Besides that and my usual commercial work, I always have a few commissioned pieces going- caricatures, pinups etc. So, luckily I'm being kept busy.




Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?

I would love to be able to paint in oils. I'm really hopeless with a brush and I think after painting digitally for so long, I would be constantly looking for the 'undo' button while sitting at the easel.

I'd also love to do more cover work. For comic books, novels whatever... that would be a blast.




Any advice to the novice commercial artist/ illustrator?

Build up a varied portfolio. If you limit yourself to what you can do, you eventually limit your workload.

In advertising and commercial art, always meet your deadline. Even if it means working through the night. Reliability is just as important as ability.

Get an agent. They may take a cut of your earnings, but all the footwork they do and negotiating to get you top dollar, allows you to concentrate on what you do best.




What makes an illustration successful?

A clear idea, good reference, self criticism, hard work, and an appreciative audience.




What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?

Exploring different styles in my art keeps things fresh and interesting for me. If I'm getting jaded or getting burnt out from overdoing a particular style or artform I'll switch to something else.

Also perusing all the fantastic art and illustration on the internet and falling into brief fits of jealous depression inadvertently keeps me motivated as well.




Finish this sentence. "If I weren't an illustrator I would have been..."

A puppeteer. I'm a big Jim Henson fan. One of the best things about being the father to a 3 year old is having an excuse to watch Sesame Street again.




And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?

I wouldn't know. I'm more of an internet and movie kinda guy.

GLEN MULLALY

Glen Mullaly illustrates his way into the hearts of no-goodnicks everywhere from the penthouse studio of his palatial home, "Sturdley Manor", located in sunny Victoria B.C., Canada. His magazine, advertising and publishing clients all occasionally wonder:

1. Who is this man, this mystery, this force of nature?
2. What's with all the peanut butter and jelly stains on his roughs?
3. Why does he refuse to seriously answer interview questions?
4. Who's stronger, Superman or The Hulk?

http://www.glenmullaly.com/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/glenmullaly
http://www.glenmullaly.blogspot.com/



When did you first decide to become an illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?

Hmmm...I've drawn since I could hold a crayon, but it wasn't until I ruled out the exciting career opportunities of fireman, scientist and astronaut at the ripe old age of six or seven that I knew doodlin' was for me. From then until the age of seventeen I thought that drawing for my first love of comic books was going to be my path to glory. The fact that I preferred single panel stuff and not the sequential panel method that comics require should have been a clue that this 'twas not in the cards.





Who or what inspires you?

Boy oh boy... I grab my inspiration from all over. My strongest influences come from kid's book, magazine and advertising illustrators working from the late 1940's to the 1960's. Like a lot of kids in the 1970's I grew up on ( or was permanently twisted by... ) Mad Magazine - both the 70's newstand issues and the reprints of the potrzebie 50's and 60's material. Richie Rich comics and reprints of 1950's Dennis the Menace in digest form also held my boyhood interest, so Dennis's Al Wiseman and Mad's Bob Clarke would rank number one and two for me. Children's book illustrator Elizabeth Brozowska would bat third in this personal All-Star Illustrator line-up.






Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?

Well, you could say that the wonderful work of the fine folks mentioned above helped show me the ropes, but otherwise I'm pretty much self-taught. I started at a local art college directly after graduating high school, but I soon realized that this particular school's curriculum was not for me. I was anxious for practical instruction on the ins and outs of the commercial art industry, not art theory and museum field trips. So I left before the end of the first semester. I've paid for that with my lack of some basic art fundamentals though.... so do what Pliny the Elder said ( or was that Woodsy the Owl? ) and stay in school kids!






How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?

I add BHT to my packaging.






What are some of your current projects?

Besides being currently interviewed by some wacky online interview site I'm keeping busy with a pile of magazine and advertising work. I've got some kid's book work on the warming plate as well. My money, fame, wisdom and impressive finger muscles don't come from sitting around on my duff all day, Clyde!





Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?

My favourite projects are often my most recent. The new illos I did for my recent website revamp are probably my current favourite. Negotiating the final fee with myself was an exhausting ordeal, but I think I'm worth every penny.





Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?

Absolutely. You name it! Although it's been almost 25 years since my first paid freelancing job ( a B&W illo for a local newspaper ad at the age of 14 ) I feel like I'm really just started exploring all the possibilities. On the top of my list for new media is finally figuring out gouache. Many of my favourite kid's book and magazine illustrators often produced some of their best work in gouache, so getting a handle on that would be satisfying. Plus learning to spell "gouache" would be great too!





Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?

Yes - it turns out that erasers are NOT edible! Trust me, I found this out the hard way. Even though some even have the word "gum" in their name, don't put them in your mouth..... I'm telling you.... really.





What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?

If both I AND the client are happy with a job then I consider it successful. Often it's only one or the other.




What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?

Get out of the studio...that's it. Smell the flowers, squint while basking under the radiant warmth of that strange, shiny object suspended in the sky, talk to real people without using a keyboard. Anything.




Finish this sentence. "If I weren't a designer/illustrator I would have been a..."

Sure... I could come up with boring answers like "used bookstore owner" or "audio engineer", but since we're blueskying here I'll spill my guts and reveal that it's.... "commercial citrus fruit dyer". Seriously! Somebody's got to whip those pallid pummelos, colourless kumquats and ugly uglis into shape!




And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?

I'm hip on that swell Hootenanny show! Last Saturday's big telecast had those crazy New Christy Minstrel kids on it. I just can't get enough of that newfangled "folk music" the youngsters are listening to these days!

LUKE FELDMAN

Luke Feldman, creator of Skaffs, is not just your average bloke from Downunder.

This Aussie creative is spreading his Skaffs illustrations, animations and music in real style. His work is highly sought after all around the world, having been displayed and reviewed in places such as Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, UK and USA. His work has been described as “beautiful”, “elegant” and as “possessing an amazing sense of color and design”, by some of the leading professionals in the art and animation industry.


http://www.skaffs.com
http://www.myspace.com/skaffs


When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?

I have been drawing for as long as I can remember. Even as a child I was always encouraged by my mother to be creative. If you were to ask my friends whether there was a “pivotal moment” they would joke that my artistic predisposition almost certainly stemmed from a ‘head injury’ I sustained as a child. I sport a nice big scar on my forehead as a reminder of this tragic day. Ever since this day I have had an obsessive desire to create weird and wonderful characters, so there might be some truth to it?!?!

One thing led to another and today this work is collectively known as Skaffs.




Who or what inspires you?

I have always been a big fan of surrealism and artists such as Salvador Dali, Max Ernst and MC Escher. Tim Burton's dark and unique characters as well as his narrative style are always inspiring. I have always been fascinated by Dr Suess' quirky illustrations and story telling. I’m also a massive fan of asian art and culture. More recently, my trip to Japan has had a profound influence on my work; being a huge fan of their design and culture.

The idea of creating something from nothing still fascinates me, whether it is in the creating of an illustration or writing some music. My creativity is a result of life experiences and the bizarre little things that happen.

To be able to illustrate and then animate my characters, whether it be in 2D or 3D animation, has been really satisfying.






Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?

I studied Visual Arts and completed a Multimedia course in Australia. This gave me a better understanding of the fundamentals of design and animation. Since then I have spent countless hours experimenting with different mediums. Working in the design field you are constantly learning and developing your skills.




How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?

Having the ability to experiment with different mediums has certainly kept my work “fresh”. I enjoy the challenge of adapting my particular art style to different forms ie skatedecks, vinyl adhesives, sneakers, customs, t-shirts, animation etc.

An idea usually starts off as a mere glimpse, an interpretation of an experience, or from re-developing a concept that I have done in the past. I carry a sketch pad with me at all times so that I can capture the moment right there and then even if it is at a ridiculous hour. This is what keeps my ideas “fresh”.





What are some of your current projects?

I am currently developing a number of animation concepts for television and web (www.skaffs.com under the “concepts” section)
Coca-Cola 2007 Advertising Campaign
Skatedeck and Vinyl Adhesive line with Pop Cling (www.popcling.com)
Vespa decal line with PimpMyScoota (www.pimpmyscoota.com)
Developing a Vinyl Toy line with Wheaty Wheat Studios (www.wheatywheat.com)
Donated a custom skatedeck to the Anti-Cancer Council of Australia (www.acrosstheboardart.com)
Donated a limited edition signed giclee print to the Pink Art Show! in support of the Breast Cancer Foundation (www.the3day.org)
Submitted custom K-Swiss sneakers to the Sneaker Pimp Asia Tour (www.sneakerpimps.net)
Current Art Exhibition at Artist Xchange in San Francisco
Recently launched a Skaffs designed CD slick for Beehive (www.myspace.com/beehive)

And a never ending list of illustrations for other upcoming projects…..

Stay tuned to www.skaffs.com for updated information.





Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?

I am always happy to submit work to good causes such as the Anti-Cancer Council and breast cancer foundation.

One of my biggest personal projects that I am proud of would be that of my whole portfolio. I believe that every piece of work that I complete, whether it be an illustration, animation or composed music, has my heart and soul in it. Being my toughest critique, I know that everything has been done to best ability which means that looking back at my older stuff I can still be proud. I believe I have been true to my style and beliefs and worked hard to make Skaffs what it is today.




Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?

I predominately work in digital format, web, interactive media or print. I would love to have the opportunity to paint a mural in some amazingly exotic location and I am always up for new challenges!

And in terms of Skaffs, I hope to see my characters in animation on television one day soon.




Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?

Getting to a position where you can support yourself as an illustrator can be very difficult and even then it may not last. Therefore, make sure you continue to develop your skills, be able to work in a multitude of platforms as this opens more job opportunities. Develop a style, believe in your style, and always remember that there are going to be people who love your work and people who don’t. In the end, it is the client that matters.

Always be professional, efficient and have great communication skills as this will bring clients back and help with word-of-mouth.




What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?

To me, a successful piece is one that “says a thousand words”; one that stimulates thought and emotion. I think success is also having people recognize my work as a Luke Feldman or Skaffs piece.




What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?

I thrive on the every day challenges of the art world. New illustrations, animations, music etc all motivate me. I thrive on the satisfaction of finishing a new piece. I can spend hours and hours a day on a piece and never want to leave it. I guess that is the nature of the job. So when I am in between jobs, I like to play the guitar, read and travel. I’m also a black belt Taekwondo which helps me through a mental freeze.




Finish this sentence. "If I weren't a designer/illustrator I would have been a..."

Taekwondo instructor.




And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?

TV? What is that?

JOSH HOYE

I was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. I grew up at the beach, surfing, swimming, and building sandcastles. When I'm not at my computer working on projects or standing at my easel painting, I'm out in the surf enjoying life. Surfing, for me is not a sport or past time, its a way of life. I get a lot of my ideas and inspiration from the ocean. Its my way of getting away from the worries on land. Plus the rest of the family surfs and lives in Hawaii. I know, I know, its a very hard life I lead.


When did you first decide to become a graphic designer/ illustrator? Was there a pivotal moment?

Ever since the day I was born I think this was what I was supposed to do. As a kid, I was in love with cartoons, more than most little kids. I remember watching them, then going back to my paper and drawing the characters for hours. The funny thing is, I never really kept my drawings. I always gave them away. So, I guess you could say I've been freelancing since the eighties. In high school, I'd get in trouble for drawing during class. In my math classes (which I never got above a C in) I'd turn the corners of pages into flip books and daydreamed about getting to my art class and what I would do there. So I guess I've been walking the path to becoming a full fledged Illustrator for a long time.




Who or what inspires you?

Wow. What a question. First off, my mother and father. They have supported me with every decision I've made in becoming a professional Illustrator/ graphic artist. They keep me going. I have a lot of people who inspire my artwork. Of course some of the greats like Jeremy Lipking, Tex Avery, Jack Unruh, Walt Kelly, Maurice Sendak and Winsor McCay, just to name a few. Some guys that inspire me to get better and try new things are guys like James Jean, Thomas Herpich, Dave McKean, Jim Mahfood, Mike Mignola, and Jillian Tamaki. My friends that I graduated college with inspire me a lot too. They are a group of very talented people whose opinions I respect dearly.





Where does your training come from? Self-taught? College/Art School?

I graduated from Ringling School of Art and Design last year. When I was in high school, that was the only college application I wrote for. I got in as a transfer student and spent three years there. It was a very valuable experience, I learned a lot from those guys.







How do you keep "fresh" within your industry?

Well, I'd say I myself am a little "fresh" having just gotten out into the professional business world of things. I just send out my portfolio to anyone who will take it. Also, I try to keep an eye on the news and stay in touch with other artists. If you keep up with new stories and popular headlines, as an illustrator you should stay "fresh."




What are some of your current projects?

Well, since I surf and I'm an artist, I got sick of painting and drawing on my boards and having the art rub off or get scratched. So we have started our own graphic art company that specifically does artwork for surfboards. Its a new way to put artwork on boards besides the traditional airbrushing method. We can get much more detail and as technical as we or the client wants. Its great. I did about 50 or so different designs for our catalog. Each one having a different style and look. I'm also working on around 30 other custom designs for clients right now.







Which of your projects are you the most proud of? And why?

Well, I'd have to say starting that company. It was a huge task to take on. We just got done with the Surf Expo in Orlando and had great responses from surfboard manufactures and surfboard shapers. The Surf Expo had a contest called "launch." It was for new companies who just started and could enter to win a free booth, press coverage, and plenty of exposure. We made it into the finals, but did not win. Even so, I'm very proud of what we have accomplished in the little amount of time we had. It's been very exciting.
http://www.revivalsurfboardart.com/



Are there any areas, techniques, mediums, projects in your field that you have yet to try?

I just did a CD cover for a small UK band called "Muted." I had yet to do an actual CD cover. It was fun and the client was easy to work with. I have not worked with gouash yet. Even in schooling, I never used it. I'm pretty happy with acrylic and never had a problem with it. We'll see about the gouash thing, I might try it with my next idea.



Any advice to the novice designer/ illustrator?

Practice, practice, practice! You know that old saying "Practice makes perfect?" Well, its true. Avoid the couch and television. Do not let rejection kill you confidence or stop you from reaching your goals. Make drawing or painting become a habit. And most importantly, draw anything and everything.




What makes a designed piece or illustration successful?

What make a designed piece or illustration successful is when your client is happy and when the idea or message you are trying to relay come across clean and understood. Its not always an easy task, and some people have a problem with it. But I think communication is key and when you and get that right, your successful.




What do you do to keep yourself motivated and avoid burn-out?

I like to look at other Illustrators work, but not limited to just illustrators. Other artwork like furniture designs, architectural, and sculptures help get your eyes off the same old thing. It also keeps me looking at things differently and thinking about new ways to approach a project.



And finally, what is the best thing on prime-time TV right now?
Prime time TV, well, "24" is really good, I like to watch Jack beat up bad guys. But I really enjoy "MythBusters", "Dirty Jobs with Mike Rowe", and "Dog Whisperer". They are three shows that I could watch all day. Some how I got hooked on watching an old season of Survivor. I dont know how that happened? I watched a couple shows of Heroes on NBC, that was pretty cool. I usually stick with watching a good movie.




Related Links:
http://www.myspace.com/35688525
http://www.myspace.com/135764233
http://www.revivalsurfboardart.com/
http://jhoyeillustrations.blogspot.com/