Interview:
Preferred Pronoun?
He/Him They/Them
Why did you choose to enter this work?
I think this piece is very representative of my style. It contains architecture, billboards, and my own characters. Furthermore, it relates to a topic of worldwide impact: The US election.
What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
It was such a gift to be able to populate the scene with "topoids", the characters I often use in my personal work. I also really enjoyed playing with an image that can be turned upside down.
What excites you most about being shortlisted?
Many things! The visibility it grants, the reward for such hard work... but mostly, the networking opportunities it facilitates. Being shortlisted has connected me with new friends.
Where do you usually work?
My last few years have been very mobile. That has forced me to be versatile and adapt my workspace fast to different environments. Now I have my studio in DUMBO, Brooklyn.
How long did it take to complete your project?
It took roughly three weeks. First I did the initial planning and pencil sketching, then I used a dip pen and ink for the outlines and black shades. The last step was coloring with Photoshop.
What is your dream commission?
The Glastonbury or Coachella festival posters
What’s your favourite thing to draw?
My characters: the Yo-Yos and the Topoids. They represent the Dyonisyan and Apollonian sides of human beings. I also find water in its different states fascinating to draw.
What is your best tip for other illustrators?
To not seek validation in the algorithm, to engage with other humans in person, and to be crazy and passionate about life. The good work will naturally follow.
What are your plans for the future?
To have a bigger studio space and a team of people to work on big-scale multimedia art projects
View Entry