Pencil Kings | Inspiring Artist Interviews with Today's Best Artists (Mitch Bowler)

Sometimes you're stuck and you just need a big change, and the funny thing is that you can go from being stuck to being totally lit up in a very short time. That's what Marco did when he decided to leave his job, move to the city and go after his dream job to be a video game artist.

We'll dive into his past to see where his creative came from and look for clues along the way that you can use to spark your own career.

Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“Make sure it’s something you really, really have a passion for...not just a thing that you think is gonna make money.” ~ Jim Pavelec

Witches, demons, and art have always been strongly linked. If you look back through art history, you’ll find countless artists such as William Blake who have been inspired by the writings of Aleister Crowley and themes such as Ars Goetia…

And now, in the 21st Century, occult and fantasy artist, Jim Pavelec, is bringing these darkly wonderful themes to new audiences with his powerful paintings and prints.

But what does it take to make an impact in the art world today? Should you be making the art you truly want to make...or making the art you think might sell?

And, how can you as an artist learn to treat your creativity as a business without feeling too much like a salesperson?

In this week’s podcast interview, Jim Pavelec talks about making the break from a busy (but financially unstable) freelance fantasy artist career to building a huge new audience for his occult art.

You’ll hear a lot of common sense advice, some home truths, and a refreshing insight into the reality of carving out a career as an artist in this busy age of social media, art conventions, and establishing an online presence....

Key Takeaways From This Interview:

• Why Jim decided to leave his career as a freelance fantasy artist and focus on making the art he felt truly passionate about
  
  
• How Jim got over the problem of selling his art in public
  
  
• How to balance your lifestyle with making art
  
  
• Why investing in your art career can pay dividends in the long run
  
  
• How to grow your social media following...without burning out
  
  
• Why the ‘follow your dreams’ rhetoric will only get you so far
  
  
• How to find the thing you love doing most...and keep doing it

Mike Clarida is back with even more information on how to get your creative career off the ground by focusing on the 3 key steps, which are:

- Portfolio
- Outreach
- Interviews

But it doesn't just stop there, because Mike dives deep into each topic to explain the more important motivating factors that need to be there throughout the whole process.

Full Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“You have to do the legwork. I strongly believe you have to go to the conventions and physically meet people.” ~ Kensuke Okabayashi

Want to know how to become an illustrator?

This week, we speak to Kensuke Okabayashi, creator of the bestselling book, Manga for Dummies, and an artist who has worked on all kinds of projects, including Magic The Gathering .

So how did he get started in the industry and get his first big break?

In this in-depth interview, you’ll get a fascinating insight into what it’s really like to work as an illustrator and commercial artist in the fast-paced world of game studios and advertising agencies.

You’ll hear why traditional skills such as drawing and oil painting still form the foundations of a successful career as an artist, and why actually getting out there and meeting people is just as important as keeping your social media channels updated.

Interview Chapters

[00:00-02:07]

Introduction and Overview

Your host, Mitch Bowler, introduces today's guest, Kensuke Okabayashi. In this chapter, you'll hear about his work on Magic The Gathering, creating the Amazon bestseller, Manga for Dummies, and his current career as a storyboard artist in the fast-paced world of New York’s many design agencies.

[02:19-03:14]

Kensuke on his Latest Graphic Novel Project, The Foreigner

When he’s not busy working on storyboards or book illustrations, Kensuke has found time to work on his graphic novel project, The Foreigner. After successfully funding this title on Kickstarter last summer, he’s now adding the finishing touches with a view to publishing it in the next few weeks.

[03:46-05:14]

How did Kensuke get Started in his Career as an Artist?

Incredibly, Kensuke didn’t actually go to art school at first. Although he always loved Manga comics as a kid, he couldn’t find enough support in his native Japan to further his career as an artist.

So, after an initial attempt to join the studio team behind Star Blazers as an apprentice fell through, he decided to ‘play it safe’ and opt for a career in childcare. However, it wasn’t too long before he felt burned out and expressed his real dream of going to art school and becoming an artist to his parents...

[05:27-07:23]

What was art School Like for Kensuke?

Soon after deciding to pursue a career in art, Kensuke enrolled at the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York. What was his time there like and which fundamental skills did he learn?

In this chapter, you’ll hear how his enduring passion for oil painting started, and why he came to the conclusion that focusing solely on Manga and comic books wasn’t necessarily going to be the best career option for the future.

[08:31-10:10]

Why is it so Important to be Adaptable as an Artist and Develop Your Own Style?

Although many people dream of becoming a rock star comic book artist, the reality of working in this industry is often quite different.

In this chapter, you’ll hear why Kensuke believes it’s so important to be open to lots of different career routes as an artist, and why developing your own signature style is a great way to stand out from the crowd.

[10:38-11:36]

How is the Manga Industry in Japan Different to the Comic Book Industry in America?

While the American comic book industry is dominated by huge studios such as Marvel and DC, the Manga scene in Japan offers a wide range of scope for artists. In fact, you can buy a Manga comic on just about any topic you can imagine!

In this chapter, Kensuke shares his insights into the Manga industry, and explains why he feels it offers much more potential for creative growth than the more rigid framework of the big American companies.

[11:43-12:37]

What did Kensuke do After Art School?

After leaving art school, Kensuke was fortunate enough to land a book illustration gig via one of his tutors. From there, he made sure he went to as many comic cons as possible, which is where he met the art director behind Magic The Gathering.

After this, he continued to reach out and make contacts, which is how he got a foot in the door of New York’s bustling advertisement and entertainment agencies and continued to grow his career...

[13:35-15:30]

How did Kensuke get Noticed at San Diego Comic Con?

Although Kensuke’s art career sounds incredibly easy and straightforward so far, he naturally had to prove himself to art directors and other clients first.

In this chapter, he reveals how he first landed the gig working on Magic The Gathering, and why it’s often a great idea to step out of your comfort zone and put everything you have into something you might not have tried before.

[16:40-21:44]

How did Kensuke get his Graphic Novel Project Finished?

Creating a graphic novel is a huge undertaking. Not only do you have to have a great story to begin with, you’ve also got lots of other things to consider, such as editing, typography, coloring, illustration and much, much more. So how did Kensuke even begin to put his project together?

In this chapter, you’ll learn a lot about the importance of teamwork and reaching out to fellow artists. You’ll discover why it’s ok to admit you’re not the greatest at absolutely everything. And, you’ll also hear why keeping in touch with your old buddies from art school can pay dividends when you start working on a big project.

[22:34-25:14]

How do you Promote a Graphic Novel?

The business and promotion side to an art project is equally as important as the creative side. But how do you even go about promoting your art to others?

In this chapter, Kensuke shares his experiences of putting together a graphic novel, and reveals why overcoming social awkwardness or shyness is one of the key ways to help get your creative project out there.

[25:52-33:35]

What’s it Like to Work in the Advertising and Entertainment Industries?

These days, Kensuke often works in the relentlessly fast-paced world of New York’s many advertising agencies. Although it can often be a high-pressure environment, Kensuke has picked up many tips along the way to help him rise above the stress and get his work done.

And, in this insightful chapter, he shares many of them with you.

[33:49-41:53]

What’s Next for Kensuke?

Kensuke has packed so much into his creative career already, but what’s next on the horizon?

In this chapter, you’ll hear what really inspires him, and why he feels there’s still so much he wants to explore as an artist.

You’ll also hear why Kensuke believes social media is so important for artists, but that it’s only truly effective if you combine this marketing strategy with going out and meeting people face-to-face.

[42:11-44:00]

Conclusion and Where to see Kensuke’s Work Online

Mitch wraps up today’s interview, and Kensuke tells you about all the places you can see his work online.

So, whether you’re a fan of Manga or just want to learn more about how to become an illustrator, this final chapter should give you everything you’re looking for.

Terri Rodriguez-Hong is a UX/UI designer and a UX/UI Tutor at CareerFoundry. In her position as a UX/UI designer, Terri hopes to bridge the gap between products to be accessible by all users. She received her MFA from the University of Hawaii and is currently working on her master’s degree in Human Computer Interaction. Outside of her passion for UX/UI, Terri is an avid Muay Thai boxer, a volleyball fan, and the co-host of the Ramblings of a Designer podcast.

In this episode…

What happens when you blend a passion for art and user experience? While many artists base their success on commissions and reputation, there may be a more fulfilling path. 

UX/UI is the combination of design, art, and user experience that bridges the gap between a product and its user. Terri Rodriguez-Hong made the leap into the UX/UI world four years ago—and she hasn’t looked back since. With her fine art and visual design background, she brings a unique perspective to her role as a UX/UI designer. So, what is Terri’s advice to fellow artists looking to create a career in the sweet spot between art and user experience? 

In this week's episode of Pencil Kings, host Mitch Bowler sits down with UX/UI Designer, Terri Rodriguez-Hong. Terri recalls what gave her the push to transition from visual design to UX/UI, how she navigated the interview process, and why the most important investment you can make is in yourself. She also shares her tips for building industry connections and starting your journey in UX/UI. Stay tuned!

Judy tells the story of how she changed from being a writer to a 'doodler' and how she was able to start selling her work online and making a name for herself.

What's the best way to start when you're just at the beginning?

Talking to hundreds of artists seems like a good place, and that's exactly what Carl Olson has been doing for the past six years with the Digital Convergence podcast.

Here's the interesting thing however... while he set out to learn more about skills, what he actually found along the way were some amazing business opportunities to use the skills he was learning in unique markets.

Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“You have to be true to yourself, you have to have 100% commitment. If you’re gonna do it, you’ve just gotta do it. You can’t half hit the mark.” ~ Matt B Lewis.

Becoming a children’s book illustrator is a dream for many artists, but how can you turn this dream into reality and actually make a decent living from it?

In this week’s podcast, Australian children’s book illustrator, Matt B Lewis, reveals how he eventually decided to take the plunge and go freelance after 18 years as a civil servant - a totally unrelated career.

Although he never went to art school, Matt has always drawn every single day. And, one day in 2017, he decided to see if he really could turn his hobby into a viable career.

Having enrolled in the Illustration Lighthouse program in September 2016, he’d already realized how important it is to find the one thing you love doing most and concentrate on that.

So that’s exactly what he did. And, by October, he’d already written, illustrated and published his first book, Monsters in the Garden - a gift to his young daughter.

Another picture book for his son followed in February 2017, by which time Matt felt ready to start taking his new creative career to the next stage.

But how exactly did he go about doing this? You’ll find out in this week’s inspiring podcast interview.

Highlights From This Podcast:

• Why being self-taught needn’t be a barrier to your art career
• Why concentrating on the one thing you love doing most is so important
• How to find out about networking events in your local area
• Why determination and putting yourself out there are key factors in your success
• Why having a portfolio to show to prospective clients is crucial
• How to study and develop your skills as an artist
• How to quit the day job and finally start doing what you’ve always wanted to do.

After a much needed break, we're back and here's what's been happening the past few months while we've been focusing on developing the new generation of art education with the Evolve program.  

There are a lot of misconceptions around the topic of making money with your art. Today we talk with Shane Madden and start to explore some of the common ideas about getting paid to create art that aren't true and hold you back.

We explore the difference between the life of a studio artist and a freelance artist and how a freelancer career gives you the opportunity to really be in control of your life and schedule.

You will explore the idea if you are ready to start making money with your art now, or if you really do need to go back to school.

Kevin Kramer talks about his four pencil method and the secret he uses to create great looking portraits.

Feeling stuck in a job that you know isn't right for you or doesn't allow you to maximize your creative talents?

Or perhaps you're struggling to find time for art in your busy schedule?

In this interview, illustrator, Liz Gera, reveals how she balances family life and a day job with making art and selling her work at conventions.

You'll learn:

• How to make time for making art
• How to set goals and deadlines for your creative projects
• How to approach prospective clients for illustration jobs
• How to leave your 9-5 and pursue your real passion 

Take a fascinating journey inside the creative mind with fine artist and tutor at the New York Academy of Art, John Wellington.

In this interview, the former DC and Marvel colorist draws on his years of experience to give you a wide range of insights into what it really means to be creative. 

You'll discover:

• The artists who influence him
• Why staying true to your art is always the best option
• How to incorporate different influences into your art
• Comic book & storyboard techniques that always get great results
• The Number One ingredient for a successful painting
• Who to approach for feedback
• How to find the right audience for your art

Dwayne talks about what happens when depression hits, how it affects your ability to be an artist, and what the road to recovery looks like.

Want to become a childrens book artist?  Erin McGuire tells her story of how she got into the industry, what her days are like and how she's consistently getting work. 

Creativity and depression often go together for many artists, but overcoming them isn't always as difficult as you might think. In this interview, concept artist Jonah Lobe talks openly about how he learned to control his anxiety attacks, and how artists can learn to beat their fear of failure and follow their true creative dreams.

Are you ready to make the leap and become a freelance artist?  Josh Viers shares with us the steps that he took to make the big leap of going out on his own a whole lot less risky.  He also shares the steps that you can take to get yourself ready to make your own leap. 

Yamile Yemoonyah talks about all of the opportunities that artists have to monetize their work and how she's working with artists to increase their profitability.

This episode is a little different than the usual because we're covering photography here and there's so much that we can learn as artists by studying and understanding different mediums.

While listening to Aaron's story you'll also uncover some tips that you can use to improve your own art, as well as what makes the difference between good art and technically-good art.

Intro to the Pencil Kings Podcast!  Explore the previews and highlights from the upcoming episodes with Sycra Yasin, Satchel Winn, Kan Muftic, Chris Kirkland, Sergio Paez, Lazaro Ruiz, Darren Yao and Andrew Sides.

What was it like to work as editor for Marvel Comics in its heyday?

In this interview, Carl Potts talks about the exciting creative scene in NYC in the 1980s and discovering artists such as Mike Mignola, Arthur Adams, and Jim Lee.

He sheds light on how artists can break into the industry, and breaks down the fundamental skills editors are looking for.

Drawing on his years of experience as an artist, creative director, and teacher, Carl goes on to explain how artists can utilize the power of social media and the internet combined with networking to get a foot in the door of any creative industry, and provides clarity on the mindset you need to adopt if you want to be successful.

Interview Chapters:

00:00 - 01:09 - Introduction

01:10 - 02:04 - Carl Potts Career Overview

02:05 - 06:15 - How Carl got his First Big Break in The Industry

06:16 - 24:00 - Carl on the Golden Age of Marvel Comics

25:00 - 33:30 - Learning Resources for Artists

33:30 - 42:44 - How to Get Your Work Seen by the Right People

42:45 - 45:43 - How to Adopt the Right Mindset for Success

45:44 - 48:24 Conclusion

Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“What I’d say to people with a great idea is to be prepared to take a few risks, be prepared to commit time, be prepared to learn new software, and be prepared to stick with your ideas.” ~ Peter Richardson.

Want to know how to turn your ideas into an animated cartoon series?

Do you have a cool creative idea trapped in your head and you're wondering how to turn your idea into something more?

In this week’s interview, PK member, Peter Richardson, tells the story of how his new project, Spook Squad, went from a book, to a graphic novel and eventually into an animated show.

There are many important lessons inside this story and we'll break them down for you piece by piece so you can take that big idea you have and turn it into something bigger.

The steps are easy once you know how. And, most importantly, you don't need to be an amazing artist to get started...because the idea is where it all begins!

Interview Chapters

[00:37-16:07]

Introduction and Overview

Your host, Mitch Bowler, introduces today’s guest, illustrator Peter Richardson, who talks about his 40-year career in the industry and how the idea for Spook Squad, his new project with writer, Roger Hurn, came about.

In this chapter, you’ll hear how their project developed from an initial idea for a children’s book and graphic novel into an animated cartoon series.

Along the way, Peter taught himself how to use animation software such as Moho (Anime Studio Pro), and developed his skills as a storyboard artist by studying the work of other artists he admired.

[17:09-22:20]

How did Spook Squad Start to Gain Momentum?

Creating a project is one thing, but what happens next?

In this section, you’ll hear how Peter and Roger took their initial concept for Spook Squad to schools first, picking up an award from children’s literacy charity, The Book Trust, along the way.

You’ll hear how feedback from the kids influenced their ideas, and how both men worked hard to eventually turn this project into a fully-fledged animation series through networking with other artists, agents and publishers.

[22:21-30:08]

How did the Idea for Spook Squad Take Shape?

The idea for Spook Squad began on a wet weekday afternoon, when writer Roger got feedback from a young girl in school who’d seen his book.

After taking what she’d said on board, he starting thinking of ideas...and the project started to come to life.

In this chapter, you’ll learn why having a good idea is the most important thing for a successful book or animation...and why you don’t have to be the world’s greatest artist to accomplish this.

You’ll also hear how Peter and Roger have learned to handle rejection over the years, and why self-belief and supportive online communities such as Pencil Kings can help you through any difficult times.

[31:06-35:38]

What Research did Peter and Roger do for Their Project?

Spook Squad went through several changes before it eventually became an animated series.

Peter and Roger found their initial idea for a book and graphic novel didn’t generate as much interest from publishers as they’d hoped, so a little more research was needed before they could decide which way to go next.

In this section, you’ll hear how an online search for an artist led to Peter and Roger having a stall at Brand Licensing, a large trade show for creatives and the book industry, where they were able to start getting their project seen by the right people.

[37:12-39:24]

So how can you Turn Your Ideas into an Animated Cartoon Series?

Through getting feedback from their target audience, learning from what other artists had done, and networking with the right people, Peter and Roger were finally able to get their Spook Squad project off the ground.

But, how can you do the same? You’ll find out in this chapter.

[40:40-44:25]

Where can you Find out More About Spook Squad?

Want to find out more about Spook Squad? In this chapter, Peter lets you know exactly where to see his work and offers stacks of really useful advice from his long-running career as an illustrator in the creative industry.

So, if you’re ready to turn your ideas into an animated cartoon series or start working on that graphic novel you’ve been dreaming about, here’s where you can get started.

[44:25-46:35]

Conclusion

Mitch wraps up today’s interview with Peter Richardson and offers his own advice on how you can start turning your creative ideas into reality.

It's one thing to create a beautiful work of art that's rendered to perfection, but it's an entirely different challenge to express complex ideas with your art.

Today we talk with Dorian Vallejo and explore how he approaches his paintings and the thought process that goes into applying deeper meaning to your art.

We'll also touch on why being comfortable in a career can hold you back, and what it really means to live a fully-engaged life as an artist.

Are you a creative introvert? Today we look at how this affects you in social settings, and then go deep on what this means to your art and how you can work around any limitations that you might have.

This is a very fascinating conversation that goes into the experiences that Cat and Mitch have both had with working with creative people to uncover the things that are holding you back.

00:00 - 01:18: Introduction

Cat Rose explains the idea behind www.thecreativeintrovert.com and how she drew on her own experiences as a creative introvert to help others.

01:19 - 03:23: Which Mindset Issues Make You a Creative Introvert?

Cat reveals the roadblocks she faced when she decided to swap her career as a web designer for a freelance career as an illustrator. Are you a creative introvert, too? Then you'll probably recognize many of the issues she talks about.

05:03 - 05:44: How can you Become More Aware of Your Energy Levels When Networking and Promoting Your art?

As an artist, you'll probably already know when the best times to work are. But what about the business side of promoting yourself to others? In this part of the interview, you'll learn how to get stuff done...without burning out.

05:48 - 09:04: What Were Cat's First 6 Months as a Freelance Illustrator Like?

Cat didn't find the going was easy when she decided to become a freelance illustrator. In this section, she gives her honest advice to anyone thinking of going down this route...and how to diversify and adapt if things don't quite go to plan.

10:40 - 11:30: The Tough Medicine You Might Have to Swallow as a Creative

After a while, Cat decided to concentrate on her site instead of being an illustrator. Find out why this part of her interview.

11:32 - 13:40: What has Cat Learned Since Starting her Site?

Cat has had lots of insight into being a creative introvert since starting her site, including a deeper understanding of 'Imposter Syndrome' and why even famous people such as actor, Tom Hanks, lack confidence sometimes.

13:50 - 17:45: How can you Become More Confident?

Ever heard the phrase 'Fake it till you make it'? In this part, Cat reveals why this expression makes her cringe, and reveals some super-actionable steps you can take right now to start building your confidence instead.

19:00 - 22:19: It's all About the Baby Steps

Sometimes, having that big vision or dream of becoming a successful artist or creative can seem overwhelming. Here, Cat reveals why taking small, baby steps can help you get closer to your goal.

22:20 - 34:53: The Key Steps you can Take Today

How does Cat help people who join her site? In this part, she reveals the key steps you can take as a creative introvert.

34:55 - 44:33: Cat's 'A-ha!' Moments

Cat has experienced many lightbulb moments since starting her site. Here' she reveals what these were.

44:44 - 46:54: Are you a Creative Introvert? Where to Find Cat Online

In this concluding part of her interview, Cat tells you where you can find her online and start taking action on whatever's holding you back as an artist and creative introvert.

Ever wanted to make Manga Art and video games? In this podcast, artist Eliot Min talks abot what inspired him to create his first indie video game, Cerebrawl, and why it's still so important for artists to hustle for every opportunity that comes their way.

Cat Lavery talks about how she started selling prints online and is now enjoying major success on kickstarter.

Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“Take the time and get at least one book done for yourself, because I just think it’s more impactful. When you go to these cons and you want to talk to people, if you hand them a finished book rather than a script or inked pages, that finished product is definitely something that’ll be an ace in your pocket.”
~ Ryan Onorato.

If you want to know how to start a comic book (but seriously don’t know where to begin), this week’s interview with illustrator, Ryan Onorato, should give you all the steps you need to get going.

Having recently completed his first comic series, the wonderfully bizarre Pizza Tree, he’s got plenty of great advice to share about promoting yourself at comic conventions, networking with people who can help, and that pesky dilemma of juggling a full-time job with making art.

So, if you’ve spent the past year talking about making a comic book (but never actually got round to actually, y’know, doing it), then this interview just might be the motivation you’ve been looking for.

And, if learning how to start a comic book has always been high on your list of artistic achievements, then there’s never been a better time to start putting those words into action.

Because, even if you only have two hours to spare each night, you’ll be amazed at what you can actually get done - just ask Ryan.

Highlights From This Interview:

• How to develop your own creative style while still being influenced by other artists
• How to take inspiration for your comic book from the things which interest you most
• Why networking and making contacts with other creatives can help make your project happen
• How Ryan’s first job at a screenprinting studio influenced his current work
• How to set yourself soft deadlines to get your project off the ground
• Why overcoming your shyness could be crucial to your success as an artist
• How to handle rejection and never, ever let it stop you in your tracks

Here's the latest update on Derek Rodenbeck's story of transitioning from a comic book artist to starting his own clothing line.  

Full show notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast/

What happens if you give up everything and take your creative show on the road?

That's what Derek Rodenbeck has done, and we catch up with him again to see what he's learned in the past 5 months of travelling city to city and often living out in nature in a tent with his girlfriend and their two huge dogs.

Interview Chapters:

[00:00-05:54]

Introduction and Overview

Your host, Mitch Bowler, introduces today's guest, Derek Rodenbeck, who talks about his epic journey so far and where he's planning on travelling to next.

[06:31-13:34]

How has Travelling Changed Derek's Outlook and his Creativity?

It's impossible to travel to incredible places without them having a profound effect upon your outlook and your creativity. How has travelling helped Derek find inspiration, and how has this changed his approach to being creative?

[14:46-16:57]

Why is it so Important to Enjoy What You do as a Creative Person?

Although his background is in comic books, Derek has discovered a new passion for photography while being out on the road. And, for him, this is where he feels his creative interests really lie right now. So, how did he come to this conclusion...and why is it only worth doing something if you truly enjoy it?

[17:17-18:32]

Why Isn't Derek Thinking About Career Options Right Now?

Although he's now become a keen photographer, Derek isn't doing this with a view to having a career behind the lens. So what's really motivating him...and why has he decided to stop worrying about making money for the moment?

[20:01-22:14]

How Does Derek Find The Strength to Take Risks?

Many of us dream of just packing everything away and going travelling for months, but the fear of paying bills or losing our careers often holds us back. So how does Derek find the strength to give it all up and set out on the open road?

[23:13-26:20]

What are the big Lesson Derek's Learned From Travelling?

Travelling can have a major impact on your life, with some often unexpected lessons to learn from the experience. So what are the big lessons Derek's learned while being on the road?

[28:06-29:47]

How has Travelling Changed Derek as a Person?

The Derek we used to know was always a busy man, hustling his way from one art project to another without pausing to take a breath. Whereas, the Derek we're speaking to now has a new sense of calm about him and a much more relaxed approach to life. Has travelling brought about this change...or was it a direction he was headed in already?

[30:54-32:51]

What's Been the Biggest Change to Derek as a Creative Person?

Previously, Derek used to draw for hours on end as he worked on all kinds of projects from comic books to game cards...but where is he at right now? In this chapter, he explains what inspires him creatively about travelling...and why it's always worth exploring as many different options as you want.

[34:05-35:58]

What Happens When Derek's Travelling Comes to an End?

Travelling is great, but most of us don't get to roam the world forever. What happens when it's time to return to regular life...and is Derek worried about what happens next?

[35:59-37:43]

Conclusion and Where to Find Derek Online

If you want to find out more about Derek's adventures, this chapter will give you the information you need. You'll also hear about what's been happening in the Pencil Kings community and why we're so grateful for everyone's support with our podcasts so far.

Show notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“With what I’ve produced at the Evolve Art Academy, I’m very confident I could submit a portfolio to a prestigious art school and get accepted. Because that’s how much progress I’ve had.” ~ Michelle Lopez.

Want to know how to become a better artist...but just don’t know where to start?

Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone who wants to take their art skills further, we think you’ll find this week’s interview pretty interesting…

Because you’re about to hear how Evolve Artist student, Michelle Lopez, went from being a novice artists to one who gets paid for portrait commissions...in just four months!

Interview Chapters

[00:37-05:07]

Introduction and Overview

Your host, Mitch Bowler, introduces today’s guest, Evolve Artist Student, Michelle Lopez. In this chapter, you’ll hear why listening to Kevin Murphy’s Pencil Kings podcast interview inspired her to quit her job as an IT consultant and enrol at The Art Academy...and how she made incredible progress during her time there.

[05:33-06:16]

Why did Michelle Want to Learn how to Become a Better Artist?

Deciding upon a change of career can be pretty daunting at any stage of your life, but even more so when you’re taking a leap into the complete unknown. So what made Michelle decide to swap repairing computers for becoming a realistic painter?

In this section, you’ll hear how Kevin Murphy’s art program helped her develop confidence in her abilities and make real progress as an artist.

[07:12-07:52]

Why did Michelle Think The Art Academy was Right for her?

Like many aspiring artists, Michelle had already tried various college courses and community art groups to help her develop her creative skills...but they’d all fallen flat. So what made her decide this course was right for her...and did it meet her expectations?

[08:27-08:49]

How did Michelle Know This Course was Right for her?

Thinking something is right for you and knowing something is right for you are two very different things...so how long did it take for Michelle to realize she’d definitely made the right decision by enrolling in The Art Academy?

[08:57-09:45]

How far did Michelle Travel to Take This Course?

Enrolling at The Art Academy wasn’t exactly like joining a class at her local community college for Michelle. Instead, she had a 10-hour journey to make from her home to New Jersey before she could get started. So, what was this experience like for her?

[09:58-11:32]

What Were Michelle’s First Weeks Like at The Art Academy?

Starting something new can feel like a daunting experience, but the team at The Art Academy made Michelle feel welcome from the moment she walked through the door.

So what were her first few weeks studying with Kevin like? In this chapter, you’ll hear how she want from drawing basic shapes and learning shading techniques to creating a fully-rendered drawing in less than two weeks.

[11:48-12:33]

What Were the Beginner Exercises Like for Michelle?

Because Michelle had already had some art lessons, you might have thought the beginner lessons would be too basic for her.

However, she discovered that she’d actually missed out on learning many of these fundamentals in previous classes...and that learning to be meticulous and patient was one of the best ways to improve her art skills.

[13:41-14:10]

How Many Hours did Michelle Study for Each day?

Once you really get into making art, it’s amazing how the hours fly by without you noticing. So how many hours each day did Michelle dedicate to drawing and painting while at The Art Academy?

[15:22-17:42]

Michelle Worked Hard...but did she Enjoy Herself, too?

Hard work and enjoyment don’t always go hand in hand, but Michelle found she had a completely positive experience while pushing herself to improve as an artist. You’ll find out why in this section.

[17:52-19:05]

Were There Ever Times When she Wanted to Quit?

Even though she had a positive experience, there were times when Michelle felt the pressure and wanted to quit.

So how did she get over this? And how did Kevin and his team help her push through those roadblocks and make real progress?

[20:37-21:36]

Why is This Program so Effective?

Kevin Murphy’s art program has a 100% success rate. So what makes his methods so much more effective than all the others out there?

[21:53-23:17]

What was Michelle’s Study Schedule Like?

Michelle made incredible progress in less than four months at The Art Academy, but what was her study schedule like during this time?

[23:35-26:13]

How Much Progress did Michelle Make?

Michelle entered The Art Academy as a beginner artist and left with a portfolio of work which she’s confident would get her into the most prestigious art schools in the country. Find out how she did it in this chapter.

[26:39-28:28]

How do People React to Michelle’s Work now?

Some of Michelle’s friends and family were sceptical at first when she first told them she was going away for a while to study art.

So what are their reactions like now? In this chapter, you’ll hear why Michelle now feels she’s on the right path to develop her career as an artist and has even started taking commissions for her work.

[29:07-30:12]

What’s Next for Michelle?

So, with four months at the Art Academy under her belt, what’s next for Michelle? In this section, you’ll hear how she plans to develop her skills further and work on her art career.

[31:57-33:28]

What Does Michelle Think of the Evolve Artist Realistic Art Program?

Michelle left her home town for four months to study at The Art Academy, but this just isn’t practical for everyone. So that’s why Pencil Kings has teamed up with Kevin Murphy to create the Evolve Artist Realistic Art Program - a new way to study that incorporates all the elements of his art education from the comfort of your own home.

But does Michelle think this will be just as effective for other people who want to know how to become a better artist? In this chapter, you’ll find out why she’s also decided to join this program and where to see examples of her progress on Instagram.

[34:27-36:37]

How to Find out More About the Evolve Artist Program

Ready to find out more about how to become a better artist by joining the Evolve Artist Program? This final chapter contains everything you need to know.

Should you learn the strict fundamentals of art, or actually try and follow something a little more fun? The more we think about it, the more that having fun and having a goal is the best way to learn and stay motivated.

Marco has learned to draw, paint, make 3d, program, make music... in other words, he's a master at learning, and today we sat down to ask him about this learning process.

During the interview we also talk about being rejected from art school and what to do when we're told that we're not good enough to pursue a life as a creative.

Bruce Marion is a contemporary impressionist who specializes in creating compelling abstracted cityscapes, landscapes, and figurative and contemporary wildlife paintings. Bruce received his BFA from the prestigious ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California, where he studied with world-renowned artist Pat Nagel, as well as Lorser Feitelson, father of Post-Surrealism. Since then, Bruce has taught various courses and workshops to aspiring artists in the US, overseas, and online.

In this episode…

What defines you as an artist? What separates you from your peers? Are you an illustrator, a graphic designer, a contemporary painter? When you listen to your heart, what does it tell you to pursue? 

Bruce Marion, a contemporary impressionist, has built his career by experimenting with new mediums of self-expression. From illustration to abstract painting, Bruce has found his calling by combining a business mindset with a passion for fine art. Today, he uses his time and talent to inspire artists of all kinds to push their boundaries and follow their hearts. 

Join host Mitch Bowler in this week's episode of the Pencil Kings podcast as he interviews contemporary impressionist Bruce Marion about his gradual transition to a career in fine art. Tune in as Bruce discusses his process of blending business with passion, how to learn from every artistic endeavor, and the importance of breaking out of your social and physical constraints when pursuing a career in art.

Full Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

When Darren Yeow created the Nomad Art Satchel a few years ago, he wanted to create a super-useful tool for artists with one aim in mind - to encourage creativity and help artists everywhere capture their ideas.

Now, after the huge success of this product on Kickstarter, he's back with a brand new brand and a product which takes the design of the Nomad to an exciting new level for artists - the Etchr Lab Multi-purpose Satchel.

In this interview, you'll hear about the fascinating design process behind this new product, and how Darren and Simon invited feedback from working artists to create something which truly met their needs.
You'll learn why collaboration is key, and why the best people to work with might be easier to reach than you think.

And, if you've ever wanted to develop and launch your own product (but don't know where to start), you'll get some invaluable insights on doing this from listening to Darren and Simon's experiences.

Interview Chapters

[00:00-06:49]

Introduction and Overview

Your host, Mitch Bowler, introduces today's guests, Darren Yeow, creator of the Nomad satchel, and his business partner, finance expert Simon Frisby.

In this chapter, you'll hear why they decided to take the revolutionary design aspects of the Nomad and evolve these into an exciting new product which is set to become an indispensable tool for all artists.

[07:52-14:45]

Why did Darren Decide to Collaborate on This New Product?

When Darren launched the Nomad Art Satchel a few years ago, he was working as a one-man band looking after everything from marketing to raising financial backing for his product via Kickstarter.

Now, he's teamed up with Simon and other experts to form a new company, Etchr Lab, which promises to deliver a wide range of cutting-edge products into the lives of artists.

So why did he decide to work with others on this new project...and how has this led to a new, improved product?

[10:22-12:10]

How Can You go About Launching Your Own Great Idea?

Got a great idea of your own...but don't know how to get started on developing this into a successful product?

In this chapter, you'll hear about the benefits of networking with others in your niche...and why listening carefully to the advice of others can ultimately help you create the most effective business plan and product.

[12:11-17:33]

What Should You Look For in Potential Collaborators?

Choosing people to collaborate with can sometimes be tricky. After all, you've got to be sure they share your passion and vision for your ideas.

In this chapter, you'll hear about how Darren and Simon met, and why a series of shopping trips helped them decide that collaborating was a very good idea!

[17:34-23:41]

It's Been 3 Years Since the Nomad Satchel Was Launched. What's Been Happening Since?

Darren launched his Nomad art satchel three years ago. So what's he been up to in the meantime...and why did he decide that now was the right time to launch a new product?

In this chapter, you'll also learn about the importance of marketing your product, and how to take full advantage of tools such as social media to help promote your big idea and generate a buzz around it.

[23:42-24:42]

What Happened When Darren Devoted All His Time to His Product?

Like many artists and creators, Darren had to take on freelance work in the beginning to pay the bills while he developed his new idea.

But what happened when he was able to devote all his time and energy to this one project?

[24:43-30:44]

How Can You Work Effectively With Other People?

The success of a collaborative project often revolves around your relationship with the other members of your team. But how do you learn to hand over tasks to others and listen to their input?

In this chapter, you'll get some invaluable insights into teamwork, and why learning how to listen can be one of the most important factors behind success.

[30:45-39:00]

How do You Find Business Contacts as well as Creative Contacts?

As artists, most of us have got creative friends who we can work with and bounce ideas off of. But how do you find the business-minded people to help turn your dreams into reality?

In this chapter, you'll learn about networking...and why personal recommendations can often be much more effective than searching for potential contacts online.

[39:01-42:15]

Where to Find Darren and Etchr Lab Online

Want to find out more about Etchr Lab and their exciting new products for artists? You'll find everything you need in this chapter, including some great advice on the realities of developing a product based on Darren's real-life experiences.

[42:16-44:37]

Conclusion

Mitch wraps up today's interview and Darren lets you know how to get behind his new product launch on Kickstarter and take advantage of some great early-bird deals.

Dustin D'Arnault talks about setting your goals and creating a portfolio that's going to get you the art job that you really want.

Where do you start if you want to start printing your work onto other surfaces to create things like tshirts, patches, buttons and stickers?  We dive deep into the answers to these questions in this interview.

In this episode we talk with Fine Artist and Animator Renee Chio about what her path has been like.

She grew up in Mexico and when she found animation she fell in love. There was a problem though... at the time there weren't any schools in Mexico she could attend, so she made the decision to study in Vancouver, Canada for 2 years before returning home to work as a animator.

During her time as an animator she started to experiment with digital painting, and while she started with fan art - eventually she found her own unique style and voice, and this is what is now making her famous.

Diego Jourdan Pereira is an author of puzzle and activity books, including the Giant Book of Games and Puzzles for Smart Kids, The Big Book of Brain-Boosting Puzzles, Bible Power Puzzles, and the Astonishing Bathroom Reader. With a background in illustration, comic books, and graphic design, his clientele has ranged from Dover Publications to The Topps Company.

In this episode:

In this week’s episode, Diego Jourdan Pereira walks us through how he went from a career as an illustrator working in licensing and completely reinvented himself as an author and book designer.  

Diego’s story is a fantastic model showing how clear goals and hard work pay off to break into a completely new market and create new opportunities. 

If you have been sitting on the fence, not knowing what to do or how to do it, just listen up because the clues are all right here and if you are willing to put in the work, it’s just a matter of continued effort and time before you’re well on your way towards your dream career where you get paid to be creative. 

In the last part of the episode we talk about the difference between dreams and goals, and Diego has a great way of looking at how to set and make your goals a reality.

Full show notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

Want to know how to ask for feedback from an artist and take the next steps in your creative career?

This episode will show you how to ask for feedback the right way, so the artist feedback you receive will be as on point as possible.

It doesn't matter if you want to work in a studio or you want to work as a freelancer...

Because, when you follow these key points, the feedback you receive will always be the most helpful it can be:

1. Have a visual quality target example
2. Who are you designing your portfolio for?
3. Have at least 4 pieces that show what you are going for
4. Educate yourself about the market you want to enter

BONUS: How much time per day are you spending on your art?

Interview Chapters

[00:38-01:04]

Introduction and Overview

Your host, Mitch Bowler, talks about the subject of today’s short podcast episode, and reveals what inspired him to put together this handy resource of actionable tips and advice to help you take the next steps in your art career.

So, whether you want to work as a freelance illustrator or in a studio environment, be sure to check out the key takeaways from this podcast. Because the next 20 minutes might just give you all the light bulb moments you’ve been looking for.

[01:05-02:51]

What’s Your Target and Where are you Trying to get to in Your Work?

If you’re wondering how to get feedback from an artist, one of the first things you’ll want to do is make sure you have a specific target in mind.

Why? Because, if the person reviewing your portfolio has an idea of where you’re trying to get to, it’ll make it a whole lot easier for them to offer you their advice.

For example, if you want to become a comic book artist, then it makes total sense to show someone an example of your work that fits this style, along with something by another artist you admire to compare it to.

[02:52-05:47]

Think About who you are Designing or Making art for

Making art is one thing, but it’s going to be difficult to sell this to anybody without a target audience in mind. Therefore, it’s always worth thinking about the kind of people who might like your work.

For example, if pet portraits are your thing, then your target audience is likely to be people who love animals.

After all, you wouldn’t try and sell a stack of smoked ribs to vegetarians, so why take the risk with your own art? Find out where your audience hangs out and reach out them!

And, if you want to work in a studio, you’ll also find all the advice you need to get your work seen by the right people in this chapter.     

[05:48-06:36]

Have at Least 4 Pieces of Work to Show People

Once you’ve established your target audience and have a clear idea of where you want to get to, put the 4 pieces of work which best demonstrate this into your portfolio.

This will help the artist reviewing your work get a better picture of your style and highlight any areas that need a little more work.

[06:38-08:42]

Educate Yourself About the Market You’re Trying to get Into

Having established your target market or audience, it’s also a great idea to do some research on them.

For example, if you want to become a video game concept artist, you’ll want to find out what goes on behind the scenes on a daily basis.

To do this, read books, articles and interviews on the subject, follow artists who work in this field on social media, and generally gather as much information as you can about the industry. If you already know someone who works in your chosen field, ask them what a typical day looks like.

The more knowledge you have, the easier it will be to tailor your portfolio accordingly.

[08:44-12:57]

How Much Time per day are you Spending on Your art?

As with anything else in life, you’ll need to put the time in if you want to pursue a career as an artist. But just how much time should you be spending on your art each day?

In this chapter, you’ll learn how to make the most of your time and make real progress with your art.

It won’t always be easy, and it won’t happen overnight...but if you’re wondering how to get feedback on your art and take the next steps with your career, it’s important for the artist reviewing your work to know you’re serious about it.

[12:58-18:33]

Recap on how to ask for Feedback From an Artist

In the final chapter of this short podcast, Mitch recaps the key points from each section and tells you how to start moving towards your goals as an artist.

You’ll also hear some exciting news about our partnership with Shane Madden’s Illustration Lighthouse, and how artists all over the world are already benefiting from the advice in this course.

Show notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“Somebody always knows somebody in this creative industry. And, because of the internet, we have a global reach now.” ~ Jenni Onn.

Travel and creativity are closely linked, with scientific research now suggesting that people who travel tend to become more creative as a result.

But, have you ever wanted to just pack your bags and passport and jump on a plane to be inspired by the new sights and sounds of a different country?

In this week’s podcast, artist Jenni Onn explains why she founded her new magazine, Creative Traveller, and how this has enabled her to make contact with travelling artists from all over the world and get involved with all kinds of exciting creative projects.

So, if you’ve been getting itchy feet lately and wondering whether travelling is the right way to kickstart your creativity, then you might like to hear her story…

Because you’ll soon discover there’s a worldwide network of like-minded artists just waiting to meet you.

And, if buying a plane ticket to explore other countries isn’t an option, then don’t worry - there’s probably a cultural event taking place on your doorstep that could inspire you and help you connect with other artists.

Key Takeaways From This Interview:

• Why travel and creativity are so closely linked...and why so many people decide to up sticks and experience different cultures to reboot their love of making art
  
  
• How Jenni used her experience as an artist and art director to get her magazine started
  
  
• The skills you need to start working on your own magazine
  
  
• Why the internet has opened up the doors for artists to collaborate worldwide
  
  
• Why photographers, writers, musicians and portrait painters are choosing to travel more
  
  
• Why making global connections with other artists can help your creative career

Sycra Yasin interview about how he got started as an artist and how he created his own personal style.

Arturo Aguirre talks about how to create a comic book and the struggles and determination that compels him to keep producing art and moving forward with his passion project. 

You might feel that the odds are against you... there are so many artists out there, and not enough jobs.  It might even feel a little hopeless at times, but it doesn't have to be this way at all and in this interview we'll show you a perfect example of how you can take charge of your career and start making things happen. 

How do you become a cinematic VFX artist at Blizzard, one of the world's top game studios? Hear how David Luong found his dream career, and why he's committed to helping emerging artists by showing their work in his personal art gallery.

David Emmons is the owner of Artist Marketing Formula, a company that helps artists and small specialty business owners utilize the power of the internet and social media marketing to successfully—and sustainably—sell online. Before creating Artist Marketing Formula, David spent many years selling his copper and stained glass sculptures at various art fairs. After mastering the life-changing art of selling his products online, David decided to teach others how to create sustainable and profitable online businesses using social media.

In this episode…

Gone are the days when a simple phrase like "build it and they will come" sufficed for a marketing strategy. Like other business owners with a powerful product, artists now have to engage in strategic marketing strategies to reach their audience and boost their sales. However, this doesn't have to be an intimidating process—in fact, marketing your art today is easier than you may have imagined. 

Artist David Emmons saw first-hand how social media ads could change the way he connected to his fans and buyers. After transitioning from selling at art festivals to selling online, he decided to create a program to help fellow artists create their own profitable and successful online businesses. Since then, his Artist Marketing Formula has guided countless artists and creatives on their journey to creating a sustainable income using effective online marketing strategies. 

In this week's episode of Pencil Kings, host Mitch Bowler sits down with fellow creative and Founder of Artist Marketing Formula, David Emmons. Together, they discuss common misconceptions about marketing your art, how to effectively engage with fans and buyers online, and the tools you need to succeed using social media. If you want to find out more about David’s secret sauce to creating sustainable income using online marketing, then stay tuned!

Indie gaming is a big industry, but what's it like to launch your own title?

In this podcast, co-founder of Crash Wave Games and co-creator of Iron Tides, Carina Kom, shares her story.

You'll learn:

• How to pitch your idea to the right people
• How to reach out to your target audience of gamers
• Why your initial design doesn't have to be perfect
• Why feebback from the gaming community is crucial
• Why there are so many opportunities in the indie gaming industry

Full Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“I think what’s really important is to work on a style that makes you happy. I think you have to create artwork or work in a style that you get really excited about.” ~ Anna Goodson.

Can an art agency help your career?

In this week’s interview, we talk to illustration agency owner, Anna Goodson.

Since setting up in 1996 with a tiny budget, no clients (but stacks of ambition), Anna Goodson Illustration Agency has now grown to be one of Canada and North America’s most respected creative houses.

And, over the years, she’s helped artists go from obscurity into the pages of The New Yorker and the homes of famous pop stars.

So, is getting an agent the right move for you as an artist? Check out this week’s interview to find out...

Interview Chapters

[01:18-07:29]

Introduction and Overview

Your host, Mitch Bowler, introduces today’s guest, Anna Goodson, owner of the Anna Goodson Illustration Agency. She talks about how her background in advertising and fashion photography eventually led her to set up her own illustration agency back in 1996. Find out why it’s been one hell of a ride in this chapter...

[08:32-15:08]

What was Anna’s Breakthrough Moment?

When Anna started her agency, the internet was still in its infancy and social media hadn’t even been invented yet.

So how did she break through and make a name for herself in the hugely competitive world of creative agencies? In this section, you’ll hear how she went from being told ‘you’ll never make it’ to selling artwork to the legendary pop star, Prince.

[15:52-22:33]

What Does Anna Look for in an Artist?

The Anna Goodson Illustration Agency represents artists from all over the world with a wide range of styles. So how does she choose artists to work with? In this chapter, you’ll hear how to make an impact with your art when reaching out to an illustration agency...and how to invest in your own career as a professional artist.

[23:06-27:24]

What Should Your Vision be as an Artist?

Many aspiring artists have a vision of where they’d like to be, but they often don’t know how to go about getting there. In this section, Anna reveals the importance of having a realistic, attainable vision and the steps you need to start taking to reach this goal.

[27:59-33:34]

How Has The Internet Changed Things for Artists?

The development of the internet and social media has brought about all kinds of changes, but how do these relate to artists?

In this chapter, Anna talks about going from competing as an agency on a local scale to a worldwide one, but reveals why the traditional values of hard work, dedication, and passion for your craft are just as important today as they ever were.

[33:39-37:54]

How Should You Approach an Artist Agency?

Decided you’re ready to reach out to an agent to help promote your art to a wider audience and get more clients?

In this final part of today’s interview, Anna reveals the key mistakes to avoid when approaching an illustration agency, and why developing your own style should always be a deeply personal choice.

[37:55-39:42]

Conclusion

Mitch wraps up today’s interview with Anna Goodson and lets you know where to find out more about her illustration agency.

Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“Even if you don’t know what you want to do, just keep doing, keep trying, keep learning. Listen to yourself, listen to your heart, listen to what you love...and eventually the pieces will come together.” ~ Donna Adi.

Want to know how to promote your art on Instagram to gain followers and attract the attention of the kind of clients you want to work with?

In this week’s interview, we talk to Donna Adi, a mixed media illustrator from Los Angeles. After working in the fashion industry for several years, she felt the urge to combine her love of fashion photography with illustration and animation and develop her own style of art.

And, since posting her work online since January 2017, she’s seen her audience on Instagram grow to a huge 75.8K followers, with clothing designers and many more clients approaching her for her fun images, which bring an animated twist to photos of people in various situations.

So, what motivates her to make art? And how did she overcome self-doubt and all the other hurdles faced by artists to carve out an exciting career doing what she loves?

You’ll find out in this week’s’ podcast...

Key Takeaways From This Interview:

• Why liking what you do...and loving what you do are two different things
• Why the moment when you discover what you really love doing is the moment when things start changing for you as an artist
• How to stay focused on your art - even when others don’t take your dream seriously
• Why copying the work of artists you admire can often be a great place to start
• Why you should make today the day you start following your true passion
• How to find your own voice as an artist - even if you’re just starting out
• Why inspiring others with your art can help fuel your own creativity
• How to promote your art on Instagram and other online channels

Iva Mikles is the Co-founder of Art Side of Life Studios and Mikles & Co. She is an experienced illustrator, digital media artist, art instructor, and host of the Art Side of Life Podcast. Iva has worked on countless projects with companies including LEGO and Procter & Gamble. She has spent the last three years building an online community where artists can learn the tips and tricks of the trade in order to start making money doing what they love most: creating art.

In this episode…

Do you want to pursue a career in art, but don’t know how to make money doing so? According to digital media artist and entrepreneur Iva Mikles, there is much more potential for a successful career as an artist than you may have initially thought. 

As the Co-founder of Art Side of Life Studios and Mikles & Co., Iva helps creators learn the skills and tactics necessary to make money with their art. Her advice is to start small and develop a daily habit that allows you to constantly grow and improve as an artist.

In this episode of the Pencil Kings podcast, Iva Mikles, artist, illustrator, and art instructor, talks with host Mitch Bowler about how artists can successfully take their careers to the next level. Iva discusses the common mental roadblocks that artists face when pursuing a profitable career in art, and how to redefine your goals in order to start making money doing what you love. Stay tuned.

Have you been going at it alone and not making much progress?  In this episode you'll learn why working with other people can help accelerate anything that you are putting your attention towards, and it doesn't mean that you have to be an expert either - this way of working is available right now to anyone in the world.

Do you have an idea for a huge project that you'd like to bring to life?

Today we talk with Oscar winner and creator and director of Pixar's Brave, Brenda Chapman, to understand what it looks like to create something on the scale of a major animated film.

Brenda has worked on several films and generously shares her wealth of knowledge on what it really takes when you have a huge idea in your mind.

During the interview we'll talk about what life is like working inside Disney, how to get funding for your big idea, and why you may not want to share your big idea if you're already working inside a studio.

Mark McGuinness is a creative coach, an award-winning poet, and the Owner of Lateral Action, where he helps 21st century creatives achieve their artistic and professional ambitions. With over 20 years of experience in the coaching industry, Mark has helped countless creatives take their careers to the next level. He believes in creating a balance between our creative pursuits and our ability to become proficient as professionals in our desired field. Mark is also the author of several books for creatives and the host of the 21st Century Creative podcast.

In this episode…

Where are you on your creative journey? Whether you’re just starting to pursue your craft or you’re looking for a career shift, it’s important to remember the meaning behind your creative pursuits. 

For Mark McGuinness, art is a self-expressive tool of connection and discussion. However, many artists struggle with this connection—and the criticism and feedback that comes with it—during their pursuit toward a successful creative career. That’s why Mark has spent more than 25 years coaching creative professionals on how to achieve their artistic and career ambitions. He has helped hundreds of artists build and sustain professional relationships while productively pursuing their creative goals. 

In this week's episode of Pencil Kings, Mark McGuinness joins host Mitch Bowler to discuss how to take your art career to the next level. Mark shares his thoughts on finding motivation as an artist, overcoming rejection and criticism, and why business and art are not mutually exclusive. Mark also reveals the mindset shift that will help you achieve profitable artistic freedom. Stay tuned!

Kristen's college professor told her she couldn't draw and after 10 years of believing that lie, she was inspired by the idea of showing her own work at an art convention.

The only problem was that she was starting literally from the beginning.

To get started with her art, she joined several different online courses and programs but kept running into the same problem...

The courses she was trying to learn from were too far ahead of where she needed to be. She lacked the foundation that would allow her to move forward and access the knowledge in the courses.

So she kept going backward to uncover the simplest techniques that would allow her to truly start right from the absolute beginning and in doing so realized the real first step she needed was learning how to hold the pencil.

About the same time as she had this realization to go back to the very beginning she began hearing about the Evolve program which promised to teach everything an aspiring art student would need - even how to hold the pencil.

But committing to something like this can be scary - unless you have one key insight that has been such a big part of Kristen moving so quickly through the program.

So what's Kristen's secret?

She knew that she could put in the work. If learning art came down to talent or having a special gift then it wouldn't work for her - but if all she had to do was follow the plan; she knew Evolve was something she could do.

After joining she got to work and has been handing in assignment after assignment, moving through the program without any hint of slowing down.

Just to give you an idea of how quickly she's been moving here's Kristen's timeline:

January: Got inspired by the desire to create work for an art convention
March: Joined online courses and realized she needed to go back to discover a true starting point
May: Joined Evolve and got busy
December: Now working on professional level techniques and paintings

That's only 7 months from starting the program to now working on her first professional level pieces... all beginning with learning how to first hold the pencil and then applying herself every day to continue moving forward to her goal.

Artists often have to work to tight deadlines, but what happens when you've got three whole years to complete a single project?

That's exactly what happened to artist, illustrator and Pencil Kings tutor, Francis Vallejo. In this interview, you'll hear all about the fascinating creative process behind illustrating Jazz Day: The Making of a Famous Photograph, and how having more time to research and develop his illustrations actually helped Francis find his true niche as an artist.

So, if the fast-paced world of the average art studio environment just isn't for you, you'll find plenty of valuable advice in this interview to help you plan, research, execute and market your art projects. Plus, you'll get lots of super-useful insights on what it's really like to work as an illustrator, and why good things are more likely to come your way if you stay true to yourself and your art.

Interview Chapters:

00:00 - 03:12 - Introduction

Detroit-born artist and illustrator, Francis Vallejo, introduces himslef and reveals what motivates and inspires him as an artist

03:23 - 04:10 - The Story Behind Illustrating Jazz Day: The Making of a Famous Photograph

Francis describes his book illustration project and what he learned from working on it.

04:36 - 07:29 - What's it Like to Work on a Project That Lasts 3 Years?

Illustrating Jazz Day took 3 years. Here, Francis talks about the reasoning behind this, and how what could have been a huge gamble actually paid off.

08:23 - 11:01 - How Illustrating Jazz Day Changed Francis' Life

Francis says illustrating Jazz Day changed his life as an artist. Find out why in this part of our interview.

12:00 - 14:07 - How did Working on Jazz Day Help Francis Find His Niche as an Artist?

Most artists take a while to find their true niche - the one thing that truly inspires them and motivates them to keep on making art. For Francis, illustrating Jazz Day brought him closer to the world of literature he loved, and enabled him to make lots of new contacts with people in this industry.

14:36 - 16:09 - Is Working in Literature Really as Romantic as you Might Think?

Many artists dream of working in the field of literature, but is it really as romantic as all that? Hear what Francis thinks in this chapter.

16:26 - 18:41 - What's Next for Francis?

Having completed one big project, Francis is ready to move onto the next one. Here, he describes the exciting projects he's got lined up, and how he's inspired by the prospect of travelling and researching in the near future.

19:01 - 20:54 - What are the Benefits of Working at Your Own Pace?

Taking the time to research a project and see it through to completion without feeling rushed can really help you as an artist. Here, Francis explains why he loves working this way, and how you as an artist can find an area of work which best reflects your personality.

21:41 - 22:08 - How Can Working on a Long Project Help You Improve as an Artist?

Francis felt he truly developed as an artist while working on Jazz Day. Find out why in this chapter.

22:44 - 27:10 - What Happens After a Long Project is Finished?

In this chapter, Francis reveals what happens once you've completed a long project and goes into detail on all the associated marketing and promotion which follows.

28:08 - 32:28 - How did Francis get Discovered as an Artist?

Amazingly, Francis didn't reach out to the publishers of Jazz Day looking for work. Instead, they found him. How does this work and what can you do to help promote your art? You'll find out in this chapter.

33:10 - 35:56 - How Should you Present Yourself to Book Publishers and Work With Them on Your Project?

Francis went out of his way to meet his clients face-to-face as often as possible during his project. Find out why he believes this is so important in this chapter.

37:03 - 39:54 - What Advice does Francis Have for Aspiring Artists?

Francis learned a lot through working on his project. Here, he shares his advice for any aspiring artists who have yet to find their true niche.

40:35 - 42:40 - What Makes Your Art Saleable?

A lot of artists fall into the trap of producing work in the style of others in an attempt to make their work more saleable. Find out why staying true to yourself is the way forward in this chapter.

43:25 - 44:53 - Conclusion and Where to Find Francis Online

Where can you see examples of Francis' work online? Find out in the concluding part of this interview.

https://www.pencilkings.com/category/podcast/

Jared Fiorino talks about how he became an established artist in the brand name clothing industry.

James Gurney is an artist and author best known for his painting guide, Color and Light, and his illustrated series, Dinotopia. James is also a popular lecturer at art schools, movie studios, and game companies, where he teaches his unique painting and illustration techniques. His artwork has been exhibited at renowned venues including The Smithsonian Institution, The Norman Rockwell Museum, and The Norton Museum of Art.

In this episode…

Art is a process of self-realization, and with emerging techniques and technology, this process is always changing. According to author and artist James Gurney, in order for artists to continue to evolve with the industry, they must have the space to experiment, ask questions, and form their own ideas. 

Throughout his long and successful career as an artist, James has created many of his own experiments in order to pioneer new ideas and techniques. This has allowed him to break barriers and leap past the constraints of the traditional art world. By asking questions and seeking results using new technology, James has made influential discoveries about how everything from color palettes to subject matter affect a work of art. 

In this episode of the Pencil Kings podcast, host Mitch Bowler interviews James Gurney, author and illustrator of Color and Light and Dinotopia, about his journey as an artist and the discoveries he has made along the way. Tune in as James discusses the importance of questioning traditional art concepts, the unique differences between digital and traditional art, and how emerging technology will change the art world as we know it.

Want to know how to build a successful freelance art career...without burning out?

In this week's interview, artist and illustrator, Diego Jourdan Pereira, shares his essential advice and tips from a long, established career in the creative industry.

Having broken out of his native Chile to live in several different countries and produce work for clients across the globe, he's learned stacks of valuable lessons along the way.

With a refreshing honesty and a no-nonsense approach to the reality of being a working artist, he sheds lights on what a freelance art career actually looks like...and how you can avoid the pitfalls many artists have to face.

Interview Chapters:

• 00:00 - 02:23 - Introduction and Overview
• 03:37 - 06:08 - How did Diego get started as a freelance artist?
• 06:35 - 10:57 - What are the big takeaways from Diego's long freelance career?
• 11:50 - 13:02 - What is it really like to work as a freelance artist?
• 13:54 - 18:54 - How do you approach publishers and clients to find work
• 19:46 - 23:03 - Why are collaboration and teamwork so important in your art career?
• 23:38 - 31:18 - How has Diego built an established freelance art career and which lessons has he learned along the way?
• 32:35 - 35:17 - How can you avoid buring yourself out and still enjoy your creative career?
• 35:58 - 42:08 - What do Diego's latest creative projects look like?
• 42:36 - 43:39 - Where can you see Diego's work online?
• 43:40 - 45:18 - Conclusion

What if you knew exactly when the hiring managers would be looking for new people for their project?  That's exactly what we cover in this episode so that you can have the best chance possible to send in your resume at the right time.

Donna Adi is a mixed media illustrator and the creative director for her brand. She is well known for her unique and recognizable style of illustration, which takes its inspiration from celebrity culture and has garnered her over 190k followers on Instagram. Over the past three years, Donna has worked on a variety of creative fashion and beauty campaigns, collaborating with clients ranging from Barbie to Dior to Nike

In this episode…

What do you love about your art? Does it still bring you happiness, or have you fallen into the pitfall of comparison? Whether your art is loved by millions or just a few friends, the most important aspect of being a creator is creating something you are proud of. For Donna Adi, a renowned mixed media illustrator, it took some time to stop seeing other artists’ success as her failure. Now, she finds happiness creating art both for herself and for her 190k Instagram followers. 

In this week's episode of Pencil Kings, host Mitch Bowler interviews Donna Adi about the creative and mental process behind her well-known mixed media illustrations. Donna talks about what she learned from growing her Instagram following to almost 200k, how she stopped comparing herself to others, and why she takes time every day to do something she loves. Stay tuned. 

Zhiwan Cheung is a Fulbright Fellow, artist, video storyteller, and freelance web developer. His passion for art and desire to create has led him to connect with artists all over the world to tell their stories and relate art to culture. His art wishes to explore perspective, signs, and the space in which we aim to coexist with each other and nature. Zhiwan is also the host of the Seeing Color Podcast, where he invites other artists to talk about how they express their vision of the world through art as a medium.

Zhiwan earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Cornell University and his Master of Fine Arts degree from Carnegie Mellon University.

In this episode…

What does art mean to you? How do you relate to others through conversations around their craft and how culture affects the way we view each other? Zhiwan Cheung, a Fulbright Fellow, podcaster, and artist, dives into what it means to be an artist and what others sacrifice to follow their passion. 

Zhiwan also says that apart from the challenges posed in conversations about art that involves gender, race, and class, there are also many misconceptions about art school and what path to take once you’re done with your art studies.

Join Mitch Bowler in this week's episode of Pencil Kings as he talks with fellow podcaster and artist,  Zhiwan Cheung, of the Seeing Color podcast, about how to engage in honest conversations about art and about the importance of creating your vision of what you want your art to accomplish. He also talks about how he encourages artists to push beyond the boundaries, the common misconceptions people have about art school, and how to forge your path after you finish your art studies. Stay tuned.

Full Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

PK 148: What Does it Really Take to Make it as a Fine Artist?

“It takes application and it’s hard work, but that’s no different to building any other kind of career. Nothing comes easy!” ~ Barney Davey.

What does it really take to make it as a fine artist?

In this week’s interview, Barney Davey from www.artmarketingnews.com shares some of the biggest insights gained from years of experience in the art market and holds nothing back as he dives deep into what it takes to make a career as an artist.

So, if you’re keen to start building a career as a working artist (but don’t know what your next steps should be), then prepare to be enlightened.

Because the advice and information in this interview might just be what you’ve been looking for all along...

Interview Chapters

[00:37-02:02]

Introduction and Overview

Your host. Mitch Bowler, introduces today’s guest, Barney Davey, an expert in the art industry with more than 30 years’ experience helping artists make sales. In this chapter, he explains how he does this, and why his website has developed over the years into an indispensable resource for artists all over the world.

[02:07-02:28]

What Kind of Artists Does Barney Work With?

Over the years, Barney has worked with a wide range of artists to help them develop their careers and market their work to the right markets. But what kind of artists are most likely to go to him for help? You’ll find out in this chapter.

[02:36-04:33]

Why Barney Doesn’t Subscribe to The ‘Starving Artist’ Myth

Many people believe it’s impossible to make a living from art and refer back to the image of ‘the starving artist’ to make their point.

But is this really the case...or is it just a myth we need to move away from in our careers? In this chapter, Barney explains why he believes any artist can turn their creativity into a sustainable business with the right approach to marketing and networking.

[05:56-12:47]

What Type of Art Should You be Making to Have a Successful Career?

The fine art business can be confusing at first. On one hand, you see abstract or controversial works changing hands for millions, while on the other, you see artists struggling to get their work accepted in galleries or make sales.

So what kind of art should you be making in order to make a good regular income from your work and which kind of clients should you reach out to?

In this chapter, Barney shares some of the key takeaways from his extensive career in the art industry...and reveals why you may not need as many customers as you might think.

[13:47-17:22]

How Should You Price Your Artwork to Generate a Good Income?

Some artists make the mistake of pricing their work low in a bid to attract customers, but Barney believes this approach is counter-productive.

And, in this chapter, you’ll hear why he feels finding the right audience, working hard, and building your art career are more important things to focus on for long-term success.

[18:10-24:33]

What Are The Most Common Stumbling Blocks For Artists?

Does Barney’s approach work for everyone….or do you need to have a certain mindset to success in the art market?

In this chapter, he reveals many of the pitfalls he’s experienced from years of working with artists, and explains why he believes there’s a certain trade-off between the work you want to make for yourself...and the work that’s actually going to start bringing the dollars in.

[25:12-32:05]

Is Becoming a Professional Artist The Right Career Choice For You?

Even though you love making art, becoming a professional artist and carving out a creative career might not be the best route for you to take. Why? In this chapter, Barney explains how to be honest with yourself and establish whether you have a viable art business or not.

[32:21-34:14]

What if You Aren’t Prepared to Market Yourself as an Artist?

Love making art but don’t want to market yourself? Then here comes the cold water. In this chapter, you’ll hear why promoting your work to others is the crucial difference between professional and hobby artists, and why marketing doesn’t always have to feel ‘icky’.

[34:46-42:20]

How Does Barney Work With Artists And Help Them?

Barney’s website is already a treasure trove of super-useful bounty for artists, but what are the new ways in which he’s working with people to help them get the most from their creative careers?

In this chapter, he talks about the idea behind his new Art Business Book Club, and reveals what motivates him to keep helping artists reach their full potential. You’ll also hear about where to find Barney online, and how to take advantage of his free initial consultation service.

[43:08-46:48]

Conclusion

Mitch wraps up today’s interview, and Barney offers some final thoughts and advice for any artists who are keen to take the next step in their careers.

Sandra Coan is an award-winning photographer, industry educator, and the best selling author of Crafting Your Ideal Light. She specializes in studio portraiture, artificial lighting, and fine art film photography. In addition to running her busy Seattle, Washington studio, Sandra Coan Photography,  she also teaches photographers around the world how 

to create a natural-looking light with strobes and flashes. She continues to inspire old and new photographers with her attention to detail and love for natural light photography.

In this episode…

How does a teacher with thousands of dollars in student loans become an award-winning photographer and public speaker by pursuing her hobby as a side hustle? How does a small studio establish their brand without compromising their brand name or their quality? Sandra Coan, best selling author and passionate photographer, has established herself as an undeniable resource for those who are looking to hone their photography skills particularly for those who want to use natural light in their photos. 

In this week's episode, Mitch Bowler talks to Sandra Coan, author of Crafting the Natural Light Look: The One-Light Approach to Creating Striking Portraits with a Strobe or Flash, about her journey from teacher to photographer. She also talks about how to build your brand and leave a distinguished impression amongst your clients, what natural light means and how to use it to capture incredible photos, and find out how her latest book can help you become better at photography. Stay Tuned.

Are you cut out for a creative career...or should you just give up on your art dreams altogether?

In this interview with freelance concept artist and instructor, Ned Rogers, you'll finally get your answer.

It's a simple framework anyone can use to establish if you really have what it takes to make it as a creative.

You'll also learn what Ned's art school looks for in portfolios - and, thankfully, 'being the best' isn't one of the requirements.

Along the way, he'll dispel several common myths about artists and give you a real sense of what it's actually like to work as a creative in the entertainment field.

So, if you've been wondering if a creative career is for you (or not) - this is the interview that will help you decide once and for all!

PK 088: Should you start a YouTube channel as a visual artist? Freelance concept artist Nikolas Hagialas talks about his plans for doing this with fellow artist Derek Rodenbeck and outlines the important questions he asked himself first, such as:

• What kind of content should you be posting?
• Can you afford to spend time making YouTube videos?
• Is this really going to help raise your profile as an artist?

Lauren Panepinto is the Vice President & Creative Director at Orbit Books at Hachette Book Group, and in this episode, we'll deep dive into what it takes to break into the world of book illustration, and as you'll learn it's not always about being 'the best artist' in the room.

There's so much info jam-packed into this that if you're looking to get into book covers I suggest that you take notes throughout the entire interview because this is your blueprint.

00:38 - What does really 'getting out there' look like for a book cover art director
01:49 - How Lauren approaches portfolio reviews to help artists get clarity on what their next steps could look like
03:44 - Info on the cheat sheet guides that Lauren helped put together to instruct artists on their next steps
05:11 - How did you get into the world of art directing, and what does a book cover art director do?
11:27 - What does an art director look for in a portfolio that artists might not be thinking about?
15:55 - How to start building a portfolio specifically for book covers (and why including type in your work often makes it look worse)
22:14 - What catches Lauren's eye when she's looking at a portfolio so you can stand out?
26:38 - Which books do you recommend to get a good sense of the best work that you can use to research and inform your own style?
29:20 - Why subject matter knowledge is more important than technical skills as an artist
31:35 - How to make life easier for the art director (and increase your chances of getting hired over and over again)
38:41 - Advice for the first phase of your career in book covers, before you land your first job
40:43 - How much of a difference is it when you meet someone who could hire you in person vs just emailing someone quarterly updates

Check Out Lauren on the Web:
Web: http://www.laurenpanepinto.com/
Twitter: @Planetpinto
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lauren.panepinto
Instagram: @planetpinto
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/planetpinto/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenpanepinto

Links Mentioned in This Episode:
Marc Scheff - https://www.marcscheff.com/
Artistacon - https://www.artistacon.net/
Drawn and Drafted - http://www.drawnanddrafted.com/
Art Business Bootcamp PDFs (Lauren & Marc's artist cheat sheets) https://gumroad.com/drawnanddrafted
Make Your Art Work - https://www.makeyourartwork.com/
Orbit Books - https://www.orbitbooks.net/
Jon Schindehette - https://theartorder.com/
Richard Anderson - https://www.artstation.com/flaptrapsart
Donato Giancola - https://donatoarts.com/

---------

Looking for a fun, easy-going approach to learning art?
http://www.pencilkings.com

Want to learn to create realistic artwork?
http://www.pencilkings.com/evolve

Grab Mitch's Book:
Digital Artist Career Blueprint Physical Book: https://amzn.to/2VmUybF
EBook: https://amzn.to/2Xo4P9g

Scotty Russell is a podcaster, coach, artist, designer, speaker, and pizza enthusiast. He is the Founder and Creator of Perspective Collective, a company focused on teaching others how to utilize their time and creativity to make their side hustle profitable. Scotty went from working as a graphic designer in his day job to starting his own company using the knowledge he learned as an artist and as an entrepreneur.

In this episode…

Having a side-hustle can be either liberating or extremely challenging, depending on your mindset and your goals. When your side-hustle has become a significant part of your life, it may be an indication to switch your focus and give it your full attention. Scotty Russell, owner and founder of Perspective Collective, is an excellent example of what happens when life takes an unfortunate turn with your nine to five, but your side-hustle has become its own thing. 

In this week's episode of Pencil Kings, Mitch Bowler talks with fellow pizza enthusiast, artist, and podcaster, Scotty Russell, about the real possibility of turning your side-hustle into a business and how Scotty empowers artists to be entrepreneurs. Scotty also talks about the importance of investing in oneself and knowing what you want, and the 3 things that you need to have to achieve your goals. Stay tuned.

Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“If you’re painting the things that you are interested in, you’re probably going to have a better result than if you’re trying to satisfy what you think somebody else is expecting to see.”
~ David Palumbo.

Are you itching to learn how to make the art you want to make?

If you’re pursuing a creative career, putting together a portfolio which best represents your work can sometimes be tricky.

Should you add the personal projects where you felt like you were truly expressing yourself as an artist...or should you include the pieces you think potential clients want to see?

It’s a lesson that professional artist and illustrator, David Palumbo, learned early on in his career.

At the time, the trend in fantasy illustration was for highly-rendered detailed pieces, but there was just one problem…because that’s not the style David felt most comfortable working in.

And, after a prospective client gave David’s painting of a dragon some negative feedback, he had an important realization which would influence his entire career.

He decided to use his personal projects to explore the style of painting he enjoyed most...and he’s never looked back.

So, if you’re stuck in that awkward dilemma between making the art you really enjoy...or forcing yourself to produce something you think will be commercially successful, you’ll find lots of useful insights in this week’s interview to help you move forwards.

It’s a fascinating journey into the creative process, and a reminder that artists invariably produce their best work when they’re truly enjoying making it.

Highlights From This Interview:

• How to develop your own unique style through personal projects
• How to get back into making art after a hiatus
• Why using your spare time to prepare for the next project is so important
• Why working as a freelance artist isn’t for everyone
• Why networking with other artists is crucial to building a career as an artist
• Why you should never lose track of what really motivates you as an artist
• How not to let the market or clients dictate the kind of art you really want to make

Derek fills us in on what has happened with his new t-shirt business since the last time we talked with him and things are starting to turn around.

We cover an extremely important thing in this interview, which is why you need to meet your customers face to face, and why you need to select a niche that you are going after. As soon as Derek did this, everything changed.

Full Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“You can teach yourself so much from the internet these days” ~ Michael Cawood.

Want to know how to make an animated short film?

In this week’s interview, we speak to Michael Cawood, creator of the award-winning Devils, Angels & Dating, about his exciting new project, The Wrong Rock.

You'll hear what it was like to work on big name movies, such as The Mummy, Happy Feet, and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, but you'll also get a fascinating insight into what it's like to work on your own animated short film.

So, if making an animated movie has been a dream of yours for some time (but you just didn't know how to get started), then check it out...

Because you just might pick up all the advice and motivation you need to start work on your passion project right now.

Interview Chapters

 [00:37-08:21]

Introduction and Overview

Your host, Mitch Bowler, introduces today’s guest, UK-based artist and animator, Michael Cawood.

In this chapter, you’ll hear how he got started using his dad’s computer, and how the skills he learned at college eventually led him to work on big name movies such as The Mummy, Happy Feet, and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.

[09:07-20:01]

What was the Idea Behind Making The Wrong Rock?

In this chapter, Michael reveals the ideas behind his new animated short film, The Wrong Rock.

You’ll hear how he developed his initial concepts and characters, and why reaching out to creatives across the world helped him put together a team to bring his project to life.

[20:36-21:05]

How can you get Started on Your own Short Animated Film?

Want to get started on your own short animated film but don’t know what your first steps should be?

In this section, Michael talks about all the resources available to artists online, and why learning new skills are now within everyone’s reach.

[21:24-03:41]

What Motivated Michael to Make The Wrong Rock?

For Michael, making The Wrong Rock is an opportunity to express his creativity and tell a story that resonates deeply with him. But is he expecting to make money out of this project, too?

In this chapter, you’ll hear why his reasons for making this film go beyond financial matters, and why working on so-called ‘passion projects’ can actually lead to well-paid career opportunities.

You’ll hear why members of his team volunteered their time and experience, and why it’s so important for people to lend their support to independent creative projects.

[34:43-43:34 ]

Where can you Find out More About The Wrong Rock?

Want to find out more about The Wrong Rock and how you can support this project? In this chapter, Michael points you in the right direction and talks about all the perks available to people who want to get behind him and his team.

For example, if you’re interested in making your own animated short film, you’ll be able to follow along with the project at every stage and see how it was developed.

By the time his film is finished, Michael says there’ll be around 100 different edits for people to choose from, so you’ll be able to see how every single aspect of The Wrong Rock came together.

[43:35-45:38]

Conclusion

Mitch wraps up today’s interview and Michael talks about the final preparations for launching his short animated film, The Wrong Rock.

Mitch Bowler is an artist and he is the founder of Pencil Kings, a company that helps artists hone their skills and develop their craft. He is also the co-founder of Evolve Artist Training, a program meant to help creatives develop their professional art skills. Mitch has worked for more than two decades with various artists and has worked behind the scenes for companies such as Pixar, Activision, Marvel, and Dungeons and Dragons.

In this episode...

What was the first thing you remember drawing? Was it a toy truck, your parents, or scribbles left up to interpretation? Perhaps you continued to draw to gain experience in one of the most diverse industries? Or maybe you didn't like your art and decided to focus on other things until you found yourself wanting to explore your creative prowess? Regardless of the reason, you have decided to pursue art in its many mediums, and choosing which one to go for may be a bit confusing. Mitch Bowler hopes to help solve these questions of what to do next and how you should learn and include the lessons you learn in art into your professional space. 

Join Mitch Bowler, host of the Pencil Kings podcast, as he talks about his journey and passion for the arts with John Corcoran of Rise25. Tune in as Mitch discusses the different avenues for people to learn and hone their skills and talents in the arts, the importance of using the right tools, and how having a mentor can be a big boost to aspiring artists.

Corey Pelton is a senior cinematic animator at Blizzard Entertainment, creators of the hugely popular Overwatch game.

In this podcast, he talks about the importance of collaborating with other artists, and explains exactly what animation studios are looking for when they hire new people.

No money for art school? No problem...

In today's interview with concept artist, David Tilton, you're going to learn exactly how you can:

- Self-evaluate your work
- Build a support network of mentors
- Work out how many hours you should be putting in
- Track your time effectively
- Systematically apply to studios and stand out from the crowd

If you are currently working on getting your first paid gig and want to work in the highly competitive entertainment industry, you should take the next 30 minutes to just listen and take notes.

Because this is the plan of attack that you've been looking for, and it's surprisingly straightforward.

Mitch Bowler is the Founder of Pencil Kings and the Co-founder of Evolve Artist. He has worked with countless companies, including Pixar, Marvel, Dungeons & Dragons, Activision, and more.

As a former 3D technical artist, Mitch has gone through the ups and downs of honing his craft, which is why he decided to revolutionize the way that art is taught.

Both of his companies offer professional instruction and hands-on support from real artists in order to help creatives around the world take their work to the next level.

Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn:

• How to ground your ideas of what a character designer does by looking at reference books
• Why not loving the character design process can be a huge red flag, and what to do if this is you.
• How to look for jobs and make your dream career more realistic.
• How and why to participate in online communities
• Putting together a portfolio based on your earlier research
• How to have an awesome creative career even if you realize that character design isn’t as fun as you thought it might be

In this episode:

In this week’s episode, Mitch Bowler from Pencil Kings breaks down a simple five-step process that he would use to break into having a career as a character designer. 

This talk skips right over technical skill development and gets right to the heart of the key steps any artist will need to take to land their dream job, even if they have no idea how to get started.  The cool thing about this plan is that you can get started right now, and when you put your mind to it and just follow the steps you could be landing your dream career as a character designer in the next 12 months. 

It's funny how one single event can change your life. In this episode, you'll hear how one fateful tweet took Phil Galloway on a wild ride that has established him as a sought after digital fine artist. 

Jeff Maksuta has been working and teaching animation for years and is the new leader of House Animation in the Pencil Kings Community.

We talk about the first few assignments that are lined up for house animation and what members can expect.

This interview with Catherine Orer from theArtistEntrepreneur.com was like a rapid-fire Question and Answer session all around the topic of how do you take the next steps to build a viable art career. You'll also learn how artists make the process harder than it needs to be so you can get onto the fast track instead of being stuck.

If you feel like you aren't making progress OR if you've always wondered what your next step should be - listen up because it's all covered in this interview!

Catherine helps artists all over the world develop their entrepreneurial strategy which goes far beyond just selling their art. She works with artists on their long term vision and then helps them to turn that vision into reality.

One idea that has come up several times in past interviews is 'going all-in' on your art. While that may be the fastest way, it's certainly not the only way. Going all-in makes sense when you have a clear vision, a proven plan and the support network to make it all happen. However, without those key pieces it can be a tough road and as you'll hear - it's completely OK to take it slower.

If you're just starting out here are your next 3 action steps, it's right at 21:38:
- Get a consistent body of work
- Figure out what your story is
- Look at who is around you and start surrounding yourself with the right people who can support your vision and journey

Highlights:
2:50 - How artists have a blind spot that is keeping them back from being able to make forward progress
5:00 - How to start challenging everything you do, so you can start getting different results
6:40 - The biggest hurdles that keep artists from growing
9:20 - What roadblocks to we are artists create for ourselves to prevent us from being able to really 'lean in' to the life that we want
14:45 - Why treating your art like you treat your day job often leads to poor results
15:35 - Why artists are so good at making their journey into a confusing mess
17:40 - The difference between creative and technician work
21:38 - What are the first steps for someone to take who has never sold or shown any of their work, but aspires to grow as an artist
31:20 - How to explain your story as an artist, and what to do if you think you have nothing interesting to say
37:00 - Quick recap of the 3 action items to take the next step with your art career
38:54 - Details on Catherine's upcoming workshop on March 14: "How to grow your art business in 2019 without sacrificing your creative practice"

---------

Links mentioned in this Episode:
You won't be getting a Medal for this: http://theartistentrepreneur.com/blog/2017/1/21/you-wont-be-getting-a-medal-for-this
Simon Sinek: Start with Why - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4ZoJKF_VuA
The Artist's Way Julia Cameron: https://amzn.to/2Hf9bKi

Check out more of Catherine’s Work at:
Web: http://theartistentrepreneur.com
Resources: http://theartistentrepreneur.com/resources-library
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherineorer/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theartistentrepreneurcoach
Lab: http://theartistentrepreneur.com/lab
** March 14, 2019 Workshop: http://bit.ly/2ITNC4m

---------

Looking for a fun, easy-going approach to learning art?
http://www.pencilkings.com

Want to learn artistic mastery?
http://www.pencilkings.com/evolve

Grab my Book: Digital Artist Career Blueprint
Physical Book: https://amzn.to/2VmUybF
EBook: https://amzn.to/2Xo4P9g

Have you always wanted to create art that gets noticed, but not sure if you have the talent to make it happen?

If so, you'll love Michael's story as he is currently working through Block 4 of the Evolve Artist program (http://www.evolveartist.com) where students have learned the skills necessary to create professional level illustrative paintings.

In this interview, he will tell you that talent has nothing to do with it because it's all about putting in the work which makes even the highest levels of art attainable to anyone with the desire to learn.

When Michael started with Evolve Artist just over a year ago, he wasn't sure if it would work for him, but he knew that this could be his last real shot at being able to learn the skills that would give him the ability to create the work that he really wanted to make.

Throughout his life, he always had a creative calling and had tried a number of different ways to learn and improve but was never quite happy with where he was with his art.

He made that fateful decision to join Evolve a year ago and now he couldn't be happier.

Michael has the same challenges as most other students... there's family commitments, work commitments, and even travel commitments, but he's prioritized his painting and his results are now clearly on display for anyone to see.

This is the third interview we've had with students in the Evolve program and there are patterns starting to emerge:
- Every student has had a friend or family member want to hire them to create a piece of art (well before they are finished the program)
- Every student made the commitment to do the work
- None of the students claim to have any special talent or ability that's allowed them to develop the mastery they are showing with their work.

So if you've always wanted to learn to create head-turning artwork, and have the willingness to put in the work, there's nothing really stopping you from taking the next step to create your own artistic legacy.

Follow Michael's Progress here: https://www.instagram.com/michaelrayart/

Join Michael in Evolve Artist: http://www.evolveartist.com

Daniel Davis aka Steam Crow tells the story of how he went from being a graphic designer to being a successful mainstay on the comic art circuit.

Full show notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

Want to find out how to make an awesome art portfolio and find more clients?
In this interview, we speak to Paul Yates, a concept and fantasy artist from Montreal, Canada.

Since leaving uni and going freelance, Paul has scored a number of wins as an artist, including being featured in Spectrum - a leading magazine for fantasy art.
However, despite this, Paul is struggling to find regular work as an artist. And that's why he reached out to us here at Pencil Kings to see if we could help.

In this interview, you'll learn why having a great portfolio is only part of the package...and why making connections with fellow artists and getting involved with as many art-related events as possible is your key to finding more paid opportunities.

So, if you feel stuck in your career as an artist and don't know which way to turn next, we hope some of the topics covered in this interview will give you some super-useful tips which you can start acting on right now.

Interview Chapters

[00:00-03:30]

Introduction and Overview

Your host, Mitch Bowler, introduces today's guest, Paul Yates. In this chapter, you'll hear about his creative career so far, and why he decided to approach the team at Pencil Kings for their advice on his art career.

[03:46-04:39]

What is Paul's Professional Experience of Working as an Artist?

Since leaving uni and going freelance, Paul has worked on a variety of projects, including personal commissions and book illustration projects. However, he's been struggling to find concrete leads since then, which is why he turned to Pencil Kings for help.

[04:44-05:38]

What has Paul Been Doing to Reach out to People so far?

After putting your portfolio together, one of the biggest challenges as an artist can be knowing who to reach out to...and how to approach them. So how has Paul been reaching out to prospective clients...and is there anything he could change to have more success?

[05:50-07:42]

How Much Time Does Paul Spend on Improving his art Skills?

Since quitting his 9-5, Paul has been putting in the hours on developing his art skills every day. But how is he dividing his day up...and is there anything he could do to use his time more effectively?

[07:57-17:36]

What Does Paul Think is Holding him Back?

Paul's portfolio features a high standard of work and he's been featured in an industry-leading magazine, Spectrum. Yet, despite this, he's struggling to find his next big gig. So what does he think is holding him back...and what can he do to change this? In this chapter, you'll get some great tips on how to reach out to other artists and prospective clients based on our own experiences as working artists.

[18:08-20:25]

What Does 'Paying Your Dues' Mean?

A lot of artists feel held back in their careers because they feel they 'haven't paid their dues yet'. But what are these dues...and what can you do as an artist to overcome hurdles like these?

[34:40-27:52]

What Inspires Paul to Make art?

In this chapter, we asked Paul to tell us how he'd like his portfolio to be perceived by other artists and prospective clients. He reveals what inspires him as an artist, and the message he tries to convey with his paintings. Is there anything else he could be doing to make his portfolio and website stand out from the rest?

[40:32-45:54]

Conclusion

Mitch wraps up today's interview and offers Paul some more insights on how to grow his client base and hopefully find more paid gigs. In this chapter, you'll also find out where to see Paul's work online and follow him on his social media channels.

Youngman Brown is fast on his way to having interviewed more than 100 creatives from all walks of life, and it was great to have a chance to get him to pass on some of the wisdom he's gained from all those interviews.

You will learn how to get past creative block, how to balance your day job with following your creative passion, and the single most important decision that you absolutely must make when you decide to 'go for it.'

Bruce Marion is a contemporary impressionist who specializes in creating compelling abstracted cityscapes, landscapes, and figurative and contemporary wildlife paintings. Bruce received his BFA from the prestigious ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California, where he studied with world-renowned artist Pat Nagel, as well as Lorser Feitelson, father of Post-Surrealism. Since then, Bruce has taught various courses and workshops to aspiring artists in the US, overseas, and online.

In this episode…

Many children dream of being veterinarians, artists, or even teachers. As a contemporary impressionist, Bruce Marion has skillfully combined all three career paths into one. 

With his love for creating figurative and contemporary wildlife paintings, as well as his skill for teaching art, Bruce has found a style—or, rather, many styles—that keeps him inspired and motivated as an artist. As he says, the secret is following your passion and constantly creating new pieces (even if they aren’t “perfect”). 

Listen in to this week's episode of Pencil Kings as host Mitch Bowler is joined by Bruce Marion, renowned art teacher and contemporary impressionist artist. Bruce discusses the joys of working with multiple different styles, how to overcome creative roadblocks, and his process for helping artists find what works for them. If you want to learn more about discovering your artistic style and finding inspiration everywhere, then stay tuned!

Ever since meeting Derek I've been fascinated by his lifestyle and willingness to explore, discover and continually reinvent himself.

As a comic book creator, father, photographer, traveler, bodybuilder... there's just so many different interesting angles and I always love keeping up to hear what Derek has been up to recently.

6:07 - Derek catches us up on what's been going on since the last time we talked when he had just left on a road trip to 'be more one with nature'

14:10 - Travelling through Death Valley and rescuing someone from a burning truck

16:44 - Earning an income while on the road and being 'irresponsible' while having the trip of a lifetime

18:40 - How traveling together can test and grow your relationship

20:18 - Making money with Pokemon Go and how that experience taught him that money isn't everything, and how Derek is making money now on Craigslist

27:02 - What happened after the trip, and how Derek is finding creative fulfillment through Photography after so many years spent working as a comic book creator

36:25 - As someone who was interested in and working on comics before, and knowing what you know now, what would you tell your former self about comic books specifically?

41:10 - Advice to wannabe comic creators

43:57 - Pivoting and creating new creative projects to stay inspired

Today Shane Madden joins us to talk about which skills you need to get start in a creative career. The answers we come up with will likely surprise you because it has nothing to do with being the best artist that you can be. The skills you need are actually far easier to acquire than you may have thought possible.

Michelle Sakhai is a contemporary artist based in New York. With over 20 years of experience exploring plein air painting before transitioning to the abstract, Michelle’s vision is to create transformative art that touches the soul. In addition to exhibiting her paintings across the nation and worldwide, Michelle also serves on the advisory board for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Hofstra University and teaches Transformative Art at the Harlem Hospital.

In this episode…

Do you want to take your art to the next level? Then, in the words of contemporary artist Michelle Sakhai, simply let go. Free your mind from any artistic constraints and allow your hands to create. This is the mindset that allowed Michelle to experience her artistic awakening and discover her authentic vision as a painter. 

Michelle's ingenuity and ability to go beyond her area of expertise have paved the way for her free-flowing abstract art. After specializing in plein air painting for over 20 years, Michelle made the transition to the abstract—and she has never felt more connected to her craft. 

In this week's episode of Pencil Kings, host Mitch Bowler sits down with contemporary fine artist, author, and educator, Michelle Sakhai. They discuss letting go of form, finding the balance between reality and expectations as an artist, and pursuing your unique artistic expression. Michelle also emphasizes the importance of experiencing the business side of the art world, in addition to honing your craft. Stay tuned!

Francis Vallejo talks about the life of a freelance artist and what he does to keep his skills sharp and his art fresh and inspired.

Full Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“It doesn’t have to be perfect to be done. You can always rework it.” ~ Katie Buckleitner.

Want to become a magazine designer or illustrator but don’t know where to start?

In this week’s interview, we hear how Katie Buckleitner landed her dream job as a digital designer for one of the world’s most iconic publications, Cosmopolitan Magazine, in New York.

You’ll hear how she worked on her skills and transitioned into graphic design after initially studying fine art at college, and you’ll find out how you can do the same by developing standout personal projects to put in your portfolio.

And, you’ll get a fascinating insight into the fast-paced world of a leading magazine and what it’s really like to work in this exciting environment.

Interview Chapters

[00:38-02:10]

Introduction and Overview

Your host, Mitch Bowler, introduces today’s guest, Katie Buckleitner, a digital designer for Cosmopolitan Magazine in New York.

In this chapter, she talks about her background as an artist and designer, including the previous work experience which led up to Katie landing her dream job.  

[02:19-02:39]

What Does the Creative Industry Mean to Katie?

The ‘creative industry’ is a broad term that encompasses many different areas, including fine art, graphic design, illustration, video games and much, much more.

But how does Katie define the industry in her own terms...and how does she feel to be a part of it?

[02:53-03:05]

Did Katie Always Work as a Digital Designer?

These days, Katie’s duties involve designing cool stuff specifically for online publication.

But did she always work in this area...or did she cut her teeth working as a print designer beforehand?

[03:22-03:41]

What’s it Like to Land Your Dream Job as a Designer in New York?

On paper, Katie’s job sounds ideal. But what’s it live and work in New York...and how does it feel to be part of the team on the number-one young women’s magazine in the world?

[03:59-04:48 ]

How Did Katie Get Started in her Career?

Katie has landed her dream job at Cosmo, but how did she get started as an artist?

In this chapter, you’ll hear how her earlier experiences as a fine art student and keen interest in fashion eventually led to her becoming a digital designer.

[05:43-19:14]

Did Katie Have a Job Lined up Before Moving to New York?

Many young artists and designers dream of moving to a big city such as New York and finding their dream role.

But does it really ever work out like that? In this chapter, Katie reveals why she took the decision to move to the ‘big apple’...and why the advice of her art tutors in college turned out to be right after all.

[06:12-09:20]

How Long did it Take Katie to Find her Dream job?

Finding her dream job didn’t happen immediately for Katie. In fact, it was only after months of applying that she found her position at Cosmo.

In this chapter, she reveals what she thinks helped her land this role...and how you can take the same steps in your own creative career by having a portfolio that gets you noticed.

[10:02-11:36]

What has Katie Learned From Working on Personal Projects?

Although Katie started out as a fine artist, her portfolio gradually developed to incorporate many of the design elements which also interest her.

So what did she learn from working on personal projects...and how can doing this help you build a varied portfolio, too?

[12:48-13:55]

How is Being a Designer Different to Being a Fine Artist?

Although fine art and graphic design fall under the same banner of ‘creative careers’, there are lots of differences between these two areas.

In this section, you’ll hear how Katie switched from one to the other, but why she still loves to wind down after a hard day at the computer by picking up her sketchbook and pencil.

[14:06-14:47]

How Does Katie Find Time to Work on Personal Projects?

Like many of us, Katie sometimes feels drained after a day in the office and doesn’t always have the mental energy to start working on personal projects.

However, she gets around this by motivating herself to do paintings as gifts for friends, or pursuing her other passion for interior design.

So, if you work a 9-5 and often find yourself lacking in motivation for making art, this chapter should give you some good ideas to incorporate into your regular lifestyle.

[15:21-19:50]

Did Katie aim for a Particular Style in her Portfolio?

When you’re putting together your portfolio, you might wonder if you should be producing work in a particular style to get noticed.

In this chapter, Katie explains why she feels her love of infographics and attention to design principles such as visual hierarchy helped her create a body of work which stood out from the rest.

And, in this section, you’ll hear why many of these principles are such a key part of her current role as a digital designer.

[20:03-22:53]

What Does a Typical day Working at Cosmopolitan Look Like?

As the number-one magazine in the world for young women, it’s safe to say an average day working at Cosmopolitan can get pretty busy.

In this chapter, Katie describes what her day looks like as digital designer and gives you a fascinating insight into a world of deadlines, huge amounts of content, and having a great team of people to work with.

[23:03-23:43]

What’s Next for Katie?

Where does Katie see her career moving in future? In this chapter, she talks about her current interests (such as photoshoots and art direction), and how she can see herself moving forward to incorporate these into her job in the future.

[23:44-25:38]

Conclusion

Mitch wraps up today’s interview with Katie Buckleitner and tells you where to see more of her work online.

How to get noticed by an art director, and how to get you first job as an artist.  Joe Spadaford let's us know his experience and how he became an art director. 

The Mila Film is more than an incredibly moving animation about a young girl in WWII.
It's also the result of a worldwide collaboration between 250 artists from 25 countries who volunteered their time and expertise to make it. In this exclusive podcast interview, director Cinzia Angelini tells us how this incredible project took shape, and why her mother's real-life experiences of the horrors of war are as relevant and poignant today as they've ever been.

Ever wondered what you need to do to attend and exhibit at your first convention? Exhibit as in setting up your own table or booth and interacting with fans and selling your work?

Today we explore what it's like to go to an art convetion and what you need to do to prepare for your first one.

We'll also look into the mindset issues that hold you back from actually making the leap to do your first exhibit.

To celebrate reaching our 100th episode, we've taken the best bits from our most popular interviews and compiled them into one handy podcast.

Hear invaluable advice from artists working in all areas of the creative industry and get the answers to all your questions, such as:

• How to develop your own style
• How to land your dream creative job
• How to promote your art effectively and land more clients
• How to stay motivated and make real progress in your art career
• How to make the kind of art that really inspires and excites you  

Featuring interviews with: Sycra Yasin, Will Terrell, David Luong, Ahmed Aldoori, and many more.

It's one thing to create a beautiful work of art that's rendered to perfection, but it's an entirely different challenge to express complex ideas with your art.

Today we talk with Dorian Vallejo and explore how he approaches his paintings and the thought process that goes into applying deeper meaning to your art.

We'll also touch on why being comfortable in a career can hold you back, and what it really means to live a fully-engaged life as an artist.

Full show notes and links at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast/

John Martin walks us through the process of creating a successful children's book and what it really looks like behind the scenes as a children's book illustrator.

Interview Overview

Here are some of the great insights from John Martin in this interview:

• More than anything he stressed how powerful and important having a good agent is. They can open doors for you that you don't even know you need to be opening.
  
  
• When it comes to the success of your projects good character design is so important. You have to remember that with books you're competing primarily against interactive mediums like video games, and what John does to approach his character design is to pull from design ideas that he's seen and loved from all of the different media he's consumed like comic books, television and moves and then stir them all together to come up with his own new ideas.
  
  But he doesn't just stop there... he uses a fluid design process where he's not afraid to experiment and try new things to come up with his designs, and he uses textures and patterns that he sees in everyday life to use as the basis for his designs.
  
  
• Music is another big inspiration for him and he will listen to anything from classical music to rob zombie while he is working and use that to inspire the design process and get into the zone.
  
  
• The job of a book illustrator is a constant juggle, and this is something we've heard before when talking with Francis Vallejo. When the book comes out, you're in full scale promotion mode to get it out to as many people as possible, and if you're like John and part of a multi-book deal you have to balance juggling the promotion with creating work for the second book.
  
  
• John also talked a bit about his process where he draws an inks everything traditionally and then brings it all into the computer and turns it into vector, which if you've never heard of vector before is a way of working with images that you can easily scale and reposition your images without losing quality, and he works this way so that during the layout process for the book it becomes very easy for him to react to any changes that are needed while in the layout process.
  
  
• One of the things that I personally loved about this interview is John's mission to create readers for life. This is no small task when you consider the competition with games and movies for the attention span of kids.

Ever wondered how to become a concept artist or how to approach other artists to get feedback on your work? In this podcast, Pencil Kings tutor Ahmed Aldoori talks about his career so far and how you can start creating yours

Michael Grills talks about finding bliss as an artist and how he discovered his fresh new art style.

Adam Volker talks about how he got started at Moonbot Studios and the work that he does there as the creative director.

Learn how Kevin Murphy has been helping complete beginner artists consistently win awards and scholarships. If you've always wanted to learn, or have been trying to learn for years with limited success his program could be the answer you have been looking for.

Liron Yanconsky is an artist, author, creator, and a watercolor painter. Liron is from Israel and he has started multiple businesses focused on art and health, and it’s his personal mission to inspire several artists to spread and improve their craft without foregoing the quality of their dedication to art. Liron is the owner and founder of Liron Art LLC and Liron Yanconsky Books, both of which are dedicated to spreading and educating people who wish to follow their passion in art.

In this episode…

What inspires us to follow our passion? And how can our passion change the lives of those around us? Art is one of the most diverse fields of study and exploration, and with so many resources at the tip of your fingers, it becomes easier to dive into your creative pursuits. Liron Yanconsky is an artist and an author, but above all, he is an educator who wishes to encourage others to pursue their passion and grow their craft. 

In this week's episode of Pencil Kings, Mitch Bowler talks to Liron Yanconsky, founder of Liron Art LLC, and Liron Yanconsky Books where they discuss pursuing art and maintaining the quality of your art. Liron also talks about his passion for the arts, how he created his brand, and why he has chosen to connect with fellow artists and fans through social media. Stay Tuned. 

Full Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“Just let go of any intention towards making a cool drawing, and somehow that cool drawing comes of itself.” ~ Ian Ingram.

Art and mindfulness are closely linked,, but what really happens in your brain when you put pencil to paper and lose yourself completely in your art?

In this interview, hyperrealist artist, Ian Ingram, explains why he swapped the craziness of US city life for the more relaxed surroundings of a seaside town in Mexico…

...and why not being bombarded with advertising and the demands of 21st century culture has helped him find a new inner calm where he’s free to let his imagination roam.

Interview Chapters

[00:49-03:28]

Introduction and Overview

Your host. Mitch Bowler, introduces today’s guest, Ian Ingram, an American hyperrealist artist now based in Mexico.

Having worked primarily in charcoal for the last 15 years, he’s recently started creating highly detailed self-portraits in oils which explore the human condition in deep and incredibly powerful detail.  

[04:18-06:53]

Why Did Ian Move to Mexico?

A few years ago, Ian and his family made the bold decision to swap the hustle and bustle of urban American life for the more serene surroundings of a small coastal town in Mexico.

In this chapter, he explains why he did this, and how escaping the noise of the city has helped him find a new inner calm.

[07:58-10:03]

How Did Moving to Mexico Change Ian’s Life as an Artist?

Since moving, Ian has found it’s not only his lifestyle that’s changed - his new surroundings have also had a positive effect on his creative process as an artist.

In this chapter, he explains how this happened, and reveals why leaving city life behind has helped him discover who he really is as a person.

[10:27-11:50]

What Stage was Ian’s Career at When he Moved?

Do you need to establish yourself as an artist before moving somewhere new?

In this chapter, Ian talks about his career so far, and why big changes regarding his agent and galleries led to him starting afresh in a new town and seeking new inspiration from his surroundings.

[12:42-15:59]

Was Moving to Mexico Easy?

In this chapter, Ian reveals the struggles he faced in adjusting to life in a new country and continuing to develop as an artist.

On one hand, he wasn’t feeling overwhelmed by modern life any more...but, on the other, it took many months of hard work and intense concentration to produce many of his more recent paintings.

[16:41-19:14]

What’s the Reality of Working as an Artist in a new Country?

Many of us have a fantasy about a new life in a different country, but how does this differ from reality?

In this chapter, Ian explains how his vision of life compared to the practical realities of working as an artist in Mexico, and how these changes eventually filtered into the art he started making.  

[20:28-22:38]

Art and Mindfulness. Why Creativity is the Perfect Tool for Meditation.

Ian believes art and mindfulness are strongly linked, and that the creative process is the perfect tool for meditation.

In this chapter, he explains how intense concentration on drawing an object can help unlock parts of the subconscious mind, and why so many people can benefit from this in their daily lives.

[22:52-38:57]

How has Mindfulness Influenced Ian’s Teaching Methods and his art?

In this chapter, Ian explains his teaching methods and philosophy on art in great detail.

You’ll hear why he believes the eye is superior to the brain in how we perceive and interpret things, and why certain works of art resonate with us on a deeper level than others.

If you’re looking for a fascinating insight into the mind of a fine artist, you’ll find plenty of food for thought in this section.

[40:35-42:27]

Conclusion and Where to Find Ian Online

In this final chapter, you’ll hear Ian’s final thoughts on the creative process as he shares some of the biggest insights and advice from his career as an artist so far. You’ll also find out where to see more of his work online.

Show Notes at: https://www.pencilkings.com/podcast-home/

“I wanna do stuff because I want a finished product at the end, or I want a piece of animation, or I want a comic book at the end of it. And I’m learning everything so I can do that finished product - I’m not learning everything just so I can learn everything.” ~ Jason Brubaker.

Can anyone learn how to draw?

Jason Brubaker, this week’s podcast guest, certainly thinks so.

And he should know. After starting out as a completely self-taught artist, he ended up working in Hollywood for 20 years, spending his last 7 years at Dreamworks working on the Kung Fu Panda trilogy.

These days, he makes comics full-time, having produced titles such as the award-winning reMIND, Phobos, and Sithrah.

He also finds time to help other artists, offering a wide range of resources on his website.

And now, he’s include the exact same techniques he used to learn how to draw anatomy in one handy resource for artists - The Cognitive Drawing workbook.

So, we caught up with him to find out more about this exciting project...and why he genuinely believes anyone can learn how to draw if they use the right learning techniques...

Key Takeaways From This Interview:

• Why working on personal projects can help you learn new skills and open doors for your creative career
  
• Why even experienced artists are still learning
  
• How Jason got started in the industry, and how he developed his technique of cognitive drawing to help him draw anatomy (and pretty much everything else)
  
• How to focus on learning the stuff you really enjoy doing
  
• How to develop your own style, and why this is always influenced in part by the artists you admire
  
• How to learn a new skill quickly...without burning yourself out
  
• How to retain more information about the things you’re trying to draw
  
• Why the Cognitive Drawing worksheet is so effective for individuals and study groups
  
• How to really learn something new from using reference pics
  
• Where to get the Cognitive Drawing worksheet and find out more about Coffee Table Comics and Jason’s other projects.

Thumbnail sketching and creative flow go hand in hand for many artists, but how can you make these part of your daily routine, too?

In this podcast, UK concept artist and illustrator, Katy Grierson, explains why the freedom of thumbnail sketching helps her stay creative while constantly improving her skills.

You'll learn how to start a thumbnail sketch with just a few basic shapes, and why doing this will kick-start your imagination and help you develop your ideas.

So, if you've ever been hit by creative block, or are looking for an easy way to fit creativity into your busy lifestyle, this interview could be just what you need to get started again.

Ken Wong talks about his new game Monument Valley and how he uses art to give his own perspective on the world.