1. When did you first become interested in illustration?
I first became interested as a small child; I think almost all children like to draw and create. I think the difference is, while 90% of all children grow out of this phase, a few of us don't and we end up being creative our entire lives.
2. Where did you get your training or schooling?
Unfortunately, I am self-taught. I was to dumb to be able to win a scholarship, and too white/middle class to qualify for government aid. So, I went about learning it myself. The first thing any school should teach its students is the skill of self-instruction. Being able to figure things out for one's self is the best thing in the world.
3. How did you get started in the business of illustration?
When I was 19, I started taking my samples to conventions to get professional critiques on my work, and try to improve. At my 3rd show, someone critiqued my art and then offered me a job. Other than a 90-minute window in between MAZE AGENCY and JUSTICE LEAGUE AMERICA, I haven't been without illustration work in 22 years. I guess that's saying something.
4. How do you go about self promotion (websites, mailing, source books etc)?
I use MySpace, DeviantArt, and my website. But my work kinda does all the self-promotion; I draw stuff, and people seem to end up seeing it.
5. What advice would you give a student entering the field of illustration?
1. Never stop drawing; there's no ceiling on your skills in art. You can always get better the more art you create. And 2. When your hobby becomes your job, it's time to find a new hobby.
6. Would you have any general tips or ways to improve oneself in illustration?
Personal dissatisfaction and self-loathing do WONDERS for me. I'm never quite content with the work I produce, so I never get comfortable. I always strive to do better the next time. The best tip is: know your weakness. A man's got to know his limitations. If you know what aspects of your art that you excel at and what you are weak in, you can focus your time trying to improve your weak spots.
Good luck,
-AH!-
He sounds so humble and nice! I was melting by the time I finished reading this.
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