Itsura Manga

Ian Olympia

2011-02-22T10:01:00.049+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hello~ This is Ian [pronounced as ah-yan] Olympia, also known as wickedalucard. I studied at Technological University of the Philippines studying Electronics Engineering, then I shifted to B.S. Computer Science at National College of Science and Technology. I'm an undergrad and have been working since 2002.
It started when I was in 5th grade. I always drew at the back of my lecture notebooks, joined art contests, joined the school paper, and stuff [ like giving girl crushes and my friends artworks ]. This went on ‘til college. Then when I started working, and had less time to draw, since all my earlier jobs were not art related. I always brought a doodle pad with me and I'd doodle whenever I have nothing to do. I just kept on drawing.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

Reading a lot of manga and watching lots of anime inspired me to draw. My friends who believed in my skills convinced me to keep on drawing. 

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

Waking up in the afternoon, coffee, smokes, check mails, spend a couple of minutes browsing updates from the artists I watch, do my job, go out and eat dinner with Chai, come back at the office, continue my job. If I am able to finish the tasks given to me earlier, I work on personal artworks, if not, I end the day with a doodle. Then when the sun is about to rise, I head for bed.
I work with the people of Groundbreakers Inc. [ Mangaholix ].

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I've worked on my own title Echofreak which was included in the book Salted. I also have artworks/tutorials on the artbook Devour. I also made a one-shot comic, Ambition which was included in the mini comic anthology Sidedish, that we plan to continue. Also my title Ambition can be found on Komikon's Sulyap comicbook anthology. I also contributed an artwork for Dreamix Wave Artbook, which was sold at Comic Fiesta '10, Malaysia. An artwork of mine also got published at Pixiv x Otacool4 magazine. And a couple of years back I also worked on a lot of game assets, GUI, 2d sprites, sprite animations, cut scenes, pixel art, character designs, concepts, bg, 3d textures, from a lot of games that I've been assigned to by my previous employer Indigo Entertainment.

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

I take a cigarette break and brainstorm on what to draw. I study references, then do roughs. When the roughs are approved, I start working on the final art. Usually when I work I keep in mind the deadline. I always check if I am being too O.C. or too slow.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I start with the roughs. Then I clean it up by creating a pencil layer [ not-so-tight-pencils-stage ]. Then I ink them. After that, I create a base layer to mask the character from the background, then I color the piece accordingly. Depending on what needs to be done. If I am to do a painted character or bg, I sometimes skip the inking and from pencils I go straight to coloring. I am really careful at coloring the face. Its like putting make up on the character xD.

I use a Wacom Intuos 3. Manga Studio Ex 4, Sai, and Adobe Photoshop CS4.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I always listen to music. I also browse blogs and sites of pretty girls. Look at beautiful photos. Watch anime episodes. Play games. Go to places. Read manga titles I like. Watch music videos. Play my guitar. Go out with Chai. Look at my favorite artist's blogs.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

I like drawing the hair. I am really careful at drawing and coloring hair xD

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

Obviously you can find traces of Shirow Miwa on my art style. He influenced my art style a lot. I also like the works of kiDChan, Takeshi Obata, Yi Lee, Sinbaru, Falcoon, U10, Yonekura Kengo, Oh! Great, Hanaharu Naruko, Shigeki Maeshima, and Ayami Kojima. I look up to these artists and I dream to collect their artbooks! ~(≧ ∀ ≦)~

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

I've learned from Shirow Miwa and ComiPa to keep on trying. Even if I fail, even if no one notices me, I've learned that if I don't stop, eventually I will improve and people will start to appreciate my art. I've also learned from my past experiences of self publishing and working at different jobs that even if you create a masterpiece, if it didn't meet the deadline, it can't serve its purpose. I also learned from Kriss Sison to be careful at drawing the face, because most of the people who'll look at it will be drawn to the face. And the expression, color, lines, of the character's face are all important.

I've also learned from ComiPa and through observing my favorite artists that line weight is important. Even if you draw something and you don't color it, it will not look flat if you've done an excellent inking.

I've also learned to analyze what makes me look up to my favorite artists. What's in their art that fascinates me. And I try to understand that. I combine all the things I've observed from all the artists I like and try to apply it in my art. Don't get me wrong, it is not emulating, but more like, learning and applying it in an actual piece. For example, U10, he makes excellent outfits. Why? Because these outfits are existing clothes that women wear. So what I did was researched on clothes that best suit my characters, play around them and put it on my characters.

I've also learned 'best effort' and 'career mode or nice-to-have' from wickedmikel. Where as 'best effort' means, the best of what I can do at the given time. Usually for projects with a tight deadline. And 'career mode' on projects that give me a lot of time, or no deadline at all. Here I can go all out without the trouble of having to worry on my speed.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

Deviantart, Pixiv, Twitter, Twitpic [and stalk my favorite artists], Tumblr, Youtube lol.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Step up and always work your way to improvement. Practice and be serious about it. Don't take art halfheartedly. Research and learn from your mistakes. 

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

They can note me at my DA http://wickedalucard.deviantart.com/

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

You can order Salted here: http://www.indyplanet.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3741
You can buy Sulyap at any Powerbooks outlet. The rest of my stuff are pre-ordered, you can just note me if you're interested xD

If a multi-dimensional witch (like Youko) offered you to be the ultimate Manga Rockstar, but asks for your hair as payment, would you accept it?

No way! I'd rather suck at playing my guitar than be bald or wear a crew cut \(º皿º)/

Elegy Wong

2011-01-23T20:15:00.011+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hi, hi! My name is Elegy Wong, I do freelance art stuff and a little graphic design sideline. I live in a quiet town in Northern Samar (wow layo!) and I'm turning 19 this feb! Yay!

I've been drawing stuff since I was 12; I joined a school drawing contest out of curiosity and found out I could draw decent faces, and ever since then, I've been filling my notebooks with doodles and made-up comic strips about my friends and classmates. It made them excited but the teachers and my parents weren't as happy unfortunately, and I have gotten on a lot of trouble because of that. I never really took drawing seriously until just about a year ago when I got my very first commission. I thought, wow, I just sat here, made a drawing, had fun doing so and then got paid! I could get rich with just this (evil laugh). After a week or so, my older brother bought me a pen-tablet and that same day I made my dA account. So its like, I've only been an active artist for like, 10 months -my dA acc says so. :)

I took a couple of non-art-related courses but never got passed the first sems. I dunno, I never really liked listening to people talking; I'm like those types that likes to find out stuff themselves. I am also not very sociable and I find being around people very tiring.

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?

The internet. Bwahahaha!But seriously: video games and MMORPGs. For as long as I can remember, my dream had always been to design or direct a game of my own. Tetsuya Nomura, I'd say, is my main reason for being concept art/game design obsessed. Also, Mike Inel. I discovered him just last year with his Which game. I thought, if a Filipino can do this -single handedly- maybe I can too *eye sparkles* haha so yeah, those kinds of stuff convinced me. That's all thanks to the internet though ;)

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

My typical day.. hmm... sleeping? Because I'm kinda nocturnal and I do stuff mostly at night :DD

Like, I wake up at around 12pm, watch tv, do chores, go outside a little and then at about 6 I get into my work mode where I sit in front of my pc and draw all night. And then I sleep at 3 :DD

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

You mean like big things that makes people famous? *shrugs* I did some stuff with the local street art scene, mostly just doodled walls. I wish I'd have one big to work on soon though..

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

I never never never draw when there are bright lights on in the room I'm in. It distracts me. I also never get focused on working without music in my ears. I'm also currently training myself not to "alt+tab" to my web browser while drawing. Its hard.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I use Easy Paint Tool SAI, sketch-to-finish. I have a bunch of coloring process that I kinda made up myself but I always try to stick to less than 5 layers when coloring as much as possible.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

Video games, movies, looking at people's art and stuff.. The usual :DD

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?

Hmm, people? With weapons and stuff.. Fantasy... Pretty girls and their boobies, badass boys and their arms and abs... I suck at drawing landscapes, but I think I can improve on that if I un-lazy mode myself.. :)

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

WOW. There are just really a LOT of illustrators that excites me. Naming a few, there are Tetsuya Nomura, his works on Kingdom Hearts and TWEWY, Hyung Tae Kim and alot of Korean game-art-artists like REWHY and kkuem and Alien1452 for his coloring techniques - he also did the art on the mmorpg NeoSteam which I kinda got addicted to for a while..

Also, japanese artists like 兎鷺(とろ), Redjuice and Huke, またよし and Rae - Rae's yaoi are just... hnnnngg... even if you're not into that kinds of stuff, you'll go hnnnggg with how she does her works. And also Ishikei -his works are hentai but the way he colors his art is just... exciting (wink).

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

I dunno where I heard this from but If you unfocused your eye (nearly crossing it) while sketching/coloring, you'd see your work more "as a whole" and see your mistakes and stuff. It works and I kinda cross my eyes alot :3

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

deviantart.com, 4chan, pixiv, facebook hehe..

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Just enjoy what you're doing, I think. And also never try to figure out how others do what they do, try to figure out how you'd do it instead. That way your own style will develop.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

Hmm.. email? Maybe through Fb or dA 'cause I rarely check my emails now..

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Soon! I'm a part of this group and we're planning to compile an artbook to be released this summer, so watch out for that :DD

I also take irl commissions but I'm really hard to find hehe.. I'd take commish online though, if anyone'd ask me to.

Thanks!

Aheh you're very welcome! This blog is awesome! I'm glad to be part of it :DD

Why the crazy name of "George Estregan" for your deviantArt site?

Bwahahahahahaaaa! xD I really don't know who George Estregan is! Haha!

I bought a copy of Radioactive Sago Project's new album and it's first track was called George Estregan Groove Explosion. That time, I din't know what nickname I should use as an artist online and almost every name I thought about was already taken. Frustrated and sleepy, I flipped out my player, set it on shuffle and decided that the artist name of the tenth track that was gonna play'd be my username. The tenth was Radioactive sago Project but I thought it was long and apparently Radioac was already taken. So I chose the track title instead. So viola, George Estregan. It was a groovy track, so why not? :DD

Nick Jordan Beja

2011-01-02T18:17:00.012+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hello, my name is Nick Jordan Beja. I come from Cagayan de Oro City but am currently residing in Cebu City because I'm studying Fine Arts Major in

Advertising Arts in The University of San Carlos. Most of my educational background is from Cagayan de Oro City, though.

I doodle alot since elementary grade, especially during boring lectures. It then grew to a hobby... and is still a hobby until now. I'm planning to work professionally in the future though. I also become challenged when I see someone who can draw better than me and I try hard to beat that person... haha. Yep, I'm quite competitive.

What helped me? My friends, because without them i would not be an artist today.

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?

I've liked doodling since as far as I can remember. I don't really know how I started drawing but it might have something to do with my mom... She's also a really good artist especially when it comes to fashion-esque drawings. I've also been watching a lot of anime since I was a kid and I really liked the style and tried to mimic them, I usually failed though, but I kept on going on, improving on the way with the help of my friends who encouraged me to draw more and liked my drawings. They fed my ego and yeah, I guess having friends really helps in improving your talent.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

A typical day is a day at college. I'm just there hanging out with my friends and attending my classes. During the summer break though, a typical day for me is to bask all day in front of my laptop surfing the net, watching videos, listening to music, and DRAWING.

I worked with people from the student publication (The Crusader Publication) in Xavier University (Ateneo de Cagayan de Oro). My job was quite simple though compared to them layout artists and article writers. And recently I've been doing some drafts for our upcoming comic and storyboards for our upcoming short film with my college friends... because advertising course demands teamwork. XD

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

Not much. I've worked with some mini game projects... didn't last long though because I was quite inactive so they booted me out. Haha. I mostly work solo though with commissions. Yeah, RL Commissions is my only source of income and I'm still being supported by my parents. lol... And oh, I've also worked on some cartooning and comic strips for The Crusader Publication.

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

Hmmm... I'm not really sure. Usually when it's my own concept, I try to imagine the completed illustration in my mind and then try to figure out how to actually draw it. It gets frustrating most of the time because I can't seem to get the concept from my head to the paper, but I still manage if I really want the idea to not go to waste. With commissions, the concept is already there and I start sketching the concept and show it to my client. After they are satisfied with the concept I go on to completing the piece, trying to figure out how to go about making it look nice on the way.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I usually color digitally so yeah, I've been using Paint Tool SAI for 2 years now. I do the base (flat) colors first all in different layers. I then clip layers on top of the flats to do the shading and highlights. I usually use cel-shading when I clip, so I just use full-opacity brush for the solid shading and highlights then low-opacity brush for the gradients.

After I'm done coloring, shading and adding highlights to everything, I clip another layer on top of the completed image and add the "atmosphere" effect, which is basically just low-opacity gradient with purple on the lower side and yellow on the upper side. If I think it still lacks some refining, I will try adding textures and stuff in Photoshop until I'm satisfied with the outcome. :)

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I try to look around to see interesting stuff that I could incorporate with my drawings. I also watch movies and anime, browse nice illustrations and listen to techno and anime music. :)

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?

Tsundere Loli characters. Because they are just too cute.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

Hmmm... Noizi Ito, Endling, Redjuice9999, Emperpep... pretty much them. XD

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

I learned from my classmates from freehand drawing class that drawing penciled portraits is srs bsns... It's nothing like the digital drawing that I've been doing. Maybe I just don't draw them too often that's why I find it quite challenging. I also learned that creativity in drawing can lead to pretty crazy results.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

DeviantArt, facebook, plurk, gaiaonline, youtube, paypal... XD

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Art is an acquired skill. You don't really have to be naturally talented to master it. You just need dedication, perseverance and a creative mind! I've known people who started late in drawing and are already pretty good now.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

I'd like to be contacted via deviantart, http://purdoy25.deviantart.com ...or if you want you can add me in facebook (just search for my name) ;)

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

None at the moment... hopefully soon I will. Hehe... But I do offer RL Commissions~ just visit my deviantart journal for more info:

http://purdoy25.deviantart.com/journal/20565632/ :D

Thanks!

No problem~ Have a nice day!

...and feel free to choose any of my works from my gallery to feature :D

If you could be stuck in an elevator with one other person, who would that be?

Superman. So he could break both of us out from the elevator... hehe.

Kevin Libranda

2010-07-12T19:08:00.017+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

I'm a mute...lol just kidding. I just don't talk too much, maybe it also depends on the person I'm talking with - then I get talkative.

I attended a public school from Primary to High School(Is it ok if I don't mention it anymore?) in Manila, and yeah I've been a consistent school representative in every Poster Making Contest. Whether I was prepared or not they would just throw me into contest( I didn't know whether they really cared about how I felt those times or if they just wanted to win, since it's the school's name you're carrying right? :) And that, I think, prepared me to become the artist I am today (and in being a toy lol.)

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

What inspired me to become an artist? I must say it was Culture Crash Comics' fault... For me, it was like the most awesome comic ever created! I think I was in my 1st year in High School that time and it was 100% pinoy made and that inspired me a lot! I'm proud to say I'm still a fan up to now lol :)

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

Typical day for me... a "house boy", I actually do all the house chores( being the only child sucks!), after that I start doing my things. To be honest I have no work for now. :(

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I worked on one of titles in Mangaholix "Aporia", story and art by me, and some side projects that they gave me when I was still there. :)

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

When I see awesome art, or movies, anime etc. my mind burst with ideas, concepts... and I actually imagine my work finished and moving(slow mo). I never imagine my work only penned or doodled... so that's how I go about my illos.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

For me, I do the flats first( most artists, I think, do that). Then I put some shadows in as a plan, I don't merge it in my final work. After that I start coloring and for the final lightings :). Right now I'm using corel painter for pencils and inks ( unluckily I can't find any Manga Studio installers :( ). For brushes and effects I use Photoshop. :)

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

To keep myself creative, I keep myself watching movies and lots of anime!(But that's after the chores)

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

I like drawing boobies, female bodies and faces. I don't do male that much, I only do when the situation calls for it...lol to be honest I don't know why, maybe beacause it was easy for me to draw round shapes...since female have more soft and curvey lines which is easy for me to storked down.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

Elmer Damaso, Joe Madureira and Stanley Lau. They are awesome! I bow to them...:)

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Spot "blacks" blocks( I'm not sure if of the spelling). My co-worker before was mad at me because I don't do that. I think up until now he still is lol, because he was OC about it, lol peace man! But I still think they are only applicable and essential in manga or any B&W work, but for the colored work not so much. :)

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

DeviantArt,I only surf the net when I'm researching and looking for references.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Experiment with a lot of things, don't just stick to what you already do or know... If you do that, changes or evolution will not come out from your art. :)

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

Maybe they'll just have to note me on my Deviantart account> kevintut[dot]deviantart[dot]com or my e-mail account > kevinplue_14[at]yahoo.com

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

For now I don't have any art work for sale. But for those who are interested I'm currently taking commissions, they could just send me a note on my Deviantart account for questions and info. :)

If you were given a chance to turn any live animal into your canvas, what animal would you choose to paint on?

If I were given a chance to turn a live animal into my canvass? a "Sea turtle"!... they live long, explore and propagates a lot...:)

Mike Inel

2010-05-18T11:58:00.017+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

I'm just an ordinary artist. I went to ordinary schools and never had any subjects/courses that supported my art-related skills. (In fact, during my school days, people often found me weird for drawing too much, heheh)

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

Inspiration from published media, support from my brothers/sisters, and my colleagues helped me become who I am right now.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

Nothing out of the ordinary. I often spend my time stuck in a room with a computer. (I personally like it that way, mind you)

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I give my coloring services to the studio I work to: Altiz-studio.
One notable project we had was designing the characters for the show Kung-Fu Jimmy Chow and And we did some assets for the browser-based MMORPG ShadowTale.

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

There are many possible thoughts that can run through my mind everytime I work on a personal art/project: "I want to finish this piece while the mood is still present" or "I want this piece to surprise the people with its unusual approach" or "Scribble scribble scribble..."

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I use Photoshop in 99% of my artworks. I prefer using as many layers as I can. That way, I have full control of the colors when I want to edit them.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I have no idea. I rarely force myself to get inspired. Though, I noticed that creative ideas sometimes come to my mind every time I'm doing a daily routine activity. (Like taking a bath, riding a jeepney/train, washing the dishes, before sleeping, etc)

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

Anything that will surprise people, perhaps, even me. Something that's hard for them to expect. These are often seen from stories/events with twisted plots.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

I can't be certain with this question. It's hard to tell since most (of the) artists change (their style) as time flies.
I used to idolize Hideo Kojima and Yoji Shinkawa for their works in ZOE2 and MGS2, but they somehow changed their genre nowadays, and they're focused on the MGS series now.
I also used to adore Squaresoft for their fantastic games. Unfortunately, I noticed that SquareEnix is aiming for better sales more than better art content now.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Management is tricky work, especially when considering artists as the main employees.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

3DTotal, CGSociety, GameTrailers, and DeviantArt. There are many other sites that I go to, mostly news about 3d, games, and animes.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

If you're aiming for public success, "Content over Quality" is one thing that you wanna try to consider.
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try to make your work terrific, if the content fails to catch the audience's interest, then the possibility of the work getting popular is low.
With this in mind, it's your choice to whether go for one of these two actions: "Sell-out" or "Be yourself"

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

E-mail I suppose. (mike_inel[at]yahoo[dot]com) You can also note me in DA, but please don't expect a quick reply. (http://mikeinel[dot]deviantart[dot]com)

(Don't PM me via Youtube, you'll hardly get a reply from me there for various reasons.)

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

I don't have a lot of products that are on sale right now, sorry. But I'm planning to make some soon.

If you were given a chance to direct a remake of a TV series (whether animated or live action)which series would it be?

...........

Not really remakes of anime, but there are many medias that I fantasize to direct into my own version:

An additional episode of the dreaded Endless-Eight of 'Melancholy of Haruhi' (with alternate events), 'Katawa-Shoujo' anime, 'Threads of Fate' sequel, another 'Zone of the Enders' game, 'Chaos Legion' sequel, 'Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni' game with a 'Heavy Rain'-type of gameplay, 'Day of the Tentacles' remake, a new world of 'Rockman' (Maybe 'Rockman Y'?), yada yada yada insert more geek talks here etc etc etc.

But if I'll choose just one, I'll go with 'Family Guy VS South Park Epic Showdown: Round 2'

Power-F

2010-05-08T00:06:00.005+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

About myself? Finished in Antipolo National High School.I'm 21 year's old. Single. Love to draw anime, animals, watching T.V., listening to J-music, playing internet game and others.

Classes that I study? When I was in high school,I studied MAPEH and social art because for me this is related to arts.

What helped me? My friends, because without them i would not be an artist today.

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?

Since my childhood(when I was a grade schooler),every time I watched anime I was inspired to draw and copy it! After I copied these, I would stored them into my portfolio and then show it to my friends. Hehehehehe.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

For me? Reading manga,listening to J-pop, eating, playing internet games when I am free. Drawing and others.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

Making a small commission for a sketch in deviantart.

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

Starting with a sketches using mech pencil 0.5,After this i started to trace it using a mech pen .5

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

Adobe Photoshop. Until now, I don't know how to exactly use the other tools in it, because all I've known is traditional art.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

Listening to j-pop,reading manga,making costumes with my friends for cosplay events, and most of all telling myself that I'm still so very weak -- that there are so many artists besides me that are much more skillful.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?

Mecha (I just like robots).

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

Hmmmnnn... For me all the of famous manga artists just like Kubo Tite and Takeshi Obata.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Anatomy,facial expression,vanishing point,backgrounds,coloring,mecha and so many!!

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

onemanga.com, deviantart.com, friendster.com, facebook.com, cosplay.ph

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Wherever you are...think positive not negative.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

Via my website or email :
power-f.deviantart.com or yugikagami[at]yahoo[dot]com

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Yes! And that is PURAGEH manga. A four one shot story.and one of this is Bitter Sweet Love. This is a one shot story by my friend name Adrian and art by me. Sold in komikon 2010 and MCC.

Thanks!

How do you feel about Power-J?

Hmmmnnnn. What i feel about Power-J? A special friend,why? Because she is true and always there to help, just like me. For me she is a very good best friend..

John Vuycankiat

2009-09-03T11:31:00.035+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

You could consider me one of the citizens who went to school as dictated by the norms. At a young age, I gained interest in video games, cartoons, comic books and music. These forms of art inspired me to start learning to draw on my own, enhanced by the hardcore criticisms of others. Moving on, I was never the type of person who liked to hang outside the house. I was a shut-in more or less during high school. Setting foot in college, I learned to enjoy more of the outside world. Blended with people and society beyond the castle walls, hung out at bars and enjoyed playing pool, experienced social problems, damaged my liver after becoming an alcoholic, enjoyed some puffs of brotherhood...
It was like a round trip overdrive to complete what I've missed for being too sheltered. The outgoing life coupled with its ups and downs had taught me a lot.

Summing these all up and I can say that experiencing life constantly is what fuels me to illustrate, create characters and conjure up a tale based on all of my experiences. It's what makes me the artist I am today.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

That feeling of wanting to change the world by means of a story-driven art.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

Typical day? Sleep, work-out, chores, internet, illustrate(work at home for foreign client), eat, music, video games when vacant, bath. Before resigning from local employment a few months back, I worked and hung out with crazy, outgoing and fun loving people.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

Years back, I worked on adult websites of UK clients by producing hundreds of image content monthly. Recently, I work for Ronin Studios as pencil artist for sequentials and character designs.

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

I start off with thumbnail sketches. Then get down to the actual draft and if needed, trace it via lightbox.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

Adobe Photoshop would be my weapon of choice. On a scanned line art, I organize a series of layers each with a different role. I've become comfortable using a combined method of vector (via pen tool) and airbrush strokes executed by tedious mouse clicks (Yup! Plain old mouse).

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

Hanging out with friends and listening to music. Constantly exposing myself to knowledge and historical stuff of my choice. Most importantly, I remind myself that there's someone out there who's 10 times more skilled than I am - helps me pump up the creativity effort...

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

Perspective angles! Just love it when it feels like illustrated characters are about to pop out of paper/monitor.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?
Frank Frazetta; Ogure Ito; Hiroe Rei; Obata Takeshi.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?
Dynamic illustrations, realistic anatomy, color combinations and facial expressions.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?
Here are some:
www.onemanga.com
blog.plaync.jp/kanzeon.slog
www.francescadani.com
www.bekkoame.ne.jp/i/taka_tony/
shunyama.web.fc2.com/

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Aiming for perfection. Going beyond the boundaries.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

Notify via thebloodemperor[dot]deviantart[dot]com or through yahoo: blood_emper0r[at]yahoo[dot]com

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Nothing for sale as of this moment. I plan on releasing an indie comic sometime later during Anime Overload Festival 09 at SMX Convention Center, Pasay City

If you saw Pandora's box, what would come out if you opened it?

Probably something I can't comprehend which can either kill me or help me.

Hyamei

2009-06-08T13:05:00.027+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

About myself? Well I'm just the typical procrastinating dork studying in DLSU-M taking up Computer Studies. 20 years old,loves pandas and cats, and a gamer (unfortunately, I never owned a console in my life except for GBC!).

My extra-curricular activities aren't exactly art-related, right now I'm currently taking up Capoeira. If you don't know what capoeira is check it out --> www.wisegeek.com/what-is-capoeira

Both Nokomento (http://nokomento.deviantart.com) and Tomokii (http://tomokii.deviantart.com) are to blame for what I am today (peace hehe!) I learned a lot from them! I can honestly say I couldn't have been an artist if it weren't for them :)

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

I remember an anime coloring book owned by my neighbor that I really love when I was little. I started "copying" it and eventually I got a hang of it after tracing it a hundred times. I guess that sparked up the artistic little demon inside me. and also I guess I was happy/giddy and became more motivated when people get impressed by my work.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

A typical day would be to wake up, go online, eat, sleep! Oh yeah..and draw.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

Nothing in particular really. But I do remember I worked on doing some Perfect World Chibis for Level Up. I also do some small commissions for avatars in deviantART.

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

I daydream a lot so I guess the ideas come and go.

I think about the different colors I could use or any possible techniques I can apply to make it more pretty and sometimes I think about other artist's styles to help me get more ideas.

Also when in class, I also make a super weird doodle on how it should look like so I don't forget the poses and such.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I don't exactly have particular coloring style because I change a lot. I just use Photoshop (because I'm such a noob at traditional art and other programs)

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

Look at other people's work and read books and such! It really triggers your mind and keeps your inspired.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

Girls because they're way easier to draw.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

TAKEHITO HARADA and Guezav(http://gueuzav.deviantart.com) because they're just too awesome for words.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

So many things! Particularly different techniques and different color palettes that I never knew could work in a picture. I also learned the idea of contrast and lightning and never being afraid to be bold with colors because it can really help bring out the picture.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

Most of the time just deviantart, art, crafts and game blogs, multiply and facebook (just so I can play games).

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

As cliche as this may sound, practice does help a lot. I'm saying that just looking at pictures, tutorials and reading how to draw books wont work unless you actually try it yourself! Remember the saying, Rome wasn't build in a day. and never be afraid to go outside the box!

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

I check my messages in devART. If anyone wants to contact me they can visit http://hyamei[dot]deviantart[dot]com

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Nope I don't sell my stuff because I dunno how.

If you're going to make a comic about your life so far, what genre would it be (comedy, drama, romance, etc.)?

If my life would be a comic book, I'm definitely sure no one would buy it! lol but I could say I want to be a comedy because I want to highlight more about the good times with my friends rather than my sulking moments.

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FoxElie 17

2009-05-20T16:30:00.009+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hi there! The name’s FoxElie17, actually, it’s just my sort-of alias’ name in order to protect my identity (though some noticed me easily…) away from danger. Aww, just kidding. Actually, right now I’m currently a BSCS (Bachelor of Science in Computer Science) student studying in Xavier University located in Cagayan de Oro city.

And on the sad note, I’m having an unexplainable “pain” (one time, the doctor stated it’s CTS, but not in the critical condition yet) towards my hands, but in a good way, I’m glad that I’m able to do the things I do right now.

Also, what helped me prepare (to be the artist I am today) are the guidance and mentorship of some my friends both online and offline.

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?

All I can say ever since my younger years what inspired me to draw were the cartoons I’ve watched. That’s what convinced me to draw at first, from “horse-like stick people” (a term I came up when I saw my first doodles) to anthropomorphic characters (dogs, cats and dinosaurs).

And around that time, I was introduced in the world of anime, or when Ghost Fighter (the first anime I’ve watched) came out, that’s when I developed my anime/manga skills. Interestingly, all in all, these inspired me as an artist.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

Well, nice question. My typical day is during no class days, I usually spend time checking in my family’s computer, doing drawings in Photoshop, doing commissions and art trades and somehow managing to update my “art site” accounts after. Whew. But I also spend time in SM (sometimes weekly) to see one of my favorite “tambayan” there - Toy Kingdom - where I need to see the Transformers, if you know what I mean like LOL.

And people whom I worked with? Uh, all the people I know are from my university’s art club, that’s all.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

If there’s one thing I could say that I actually worked on would be one of my “mini-projects”. But the sad thing is, they later turned to (deviantart) scrap for the meantime. Because of my heavy schoolwork, I didn’t have time to polish them. I mean, that usually happens a lot for me.

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

When it comes to illustration, I have to start by “brainstorming”. If I skip this process, I’ll end up tearing up the paper I’m sketching on. And after that the process of converting my generated ideas, where I start sketching every line and curve based on how I feel about it. While the rest goes to careful handling of the inking and refining in the end (when it comes to inking I really do it in a careful and slow way).

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

So it’s about my process of coloring this time? I don’t know how to say it but it’s somewhat unique to me. Of course, you have to start coloring the bases first (for the meantime, I’m actually referring to the use of Photoshop) then after you have to add some shading and highlights (one of my favourite part in coloring, coz they give so much life, hehehe).

And the last is retouching but before that, I also make sure that I have enough layers to handle (and I do it manually on each layer as much as I could, like putting some dodge in each and selecting the area). No matter how many layers there are, they’re of great importance to finish up my work.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

Hmmmm... This is quiet complicated for me to explain, I also have this habit of looking at someone’s work and then I begai to draw it out. Literally, not copying, whenever I look at an artwork of my favorite manga artist, that’s what makes me go. And then to make it creative, I do my best to express “dynamic” expressions towards my arts or whatever the heck I’m talking about. =w=;;

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?

Currently now, it’s Transformers, it’s gotta be Transformers and lotsa sci-fi stuff dealing with giant robots. Aww, really, but I also liked doing some “moe” style art in either mecha or human. X3

Basta, all I want is shiny stuff!!! XD Ehem, why I like it, well, I just like it whenever I express myself, like making a Transformer fellow so “moe”. That is what I’m digging. Oops, sorry my bad, guess I don’t have any idea of what I’m talking about in here. LOL

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

Oh man, there so many to mention them but all I know that what inspired me to draw moe style girls, is if weren’t for Koge-Donbo (creator of Digi Charat and Pita-ten, I just love her works so much!!!). Then when it comes to robots and mecha stuff, I instantly fell in love with the Virtual On’s dynamic robot designs done by Hajime Katoki (until I noticed he worked for the Gundam franchise). For now, I guess these are the artists I know a lot about. =w=;;

What are some of the neat things
you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Of what I’ve seen from them, they give a good amount of effort towards their works. Come to think of it, it’s one of the most important aspects of every artist, but one thing's for sure, I always end up not being able to exert it though. XD

Another aspect I’ve seen is how the artist puts some “emotion” towards his/her work, in which I also apply that too, in my life. I guess, you can say that every artist’s work has a hidden feeling towards it. :D

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

One of my favorite websites I usually surf the most are the following: Aethereality.net and E-Shuushuu. These are my favorite websites when I browse nifty and some gorgeous “moe” girls. (Pardon me for saying the word “moe” a lot XD) And they become my source of references too, y’know. ;3 And another, is DeviantArt. Well, it’s one of the websites that I always browse, where I can check deviations, chat friends, submit artworks, etc. And lastly, one of those Transformers-related sites.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Ehh???? Now that’s one thing I don’t know how to say. XD Well, all I know that being an artist, you gotta have some inspiration (like I used to have from others . When you begin to explore more about your talent just by being inquisitive, your kind of potential will manifest from it (eh, got it???) And plus, you can learn from others (take for example, “How to Draw” books)as well. That’s where I also developed my skills as an anime artist.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

Well, they can either note me in DeviantArt or probably under my e-mail address, remaileen_roca[at]yahoo[dot]com.

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Oh… Nothing at all, I guess. But remember what I’ve said previously? The one about my “mini-projects” turned into scrap? That’s what I was thinking about all the time in my life, if I have enough funds for it… Though I also had no idea what to do with DA’s print system currently…=3=

Thanks!

Hehe, Thanks for the feature! I do have a fun time answering one of the questions! XD Well, that’s it for now, and God bless! And also, Mabuhay!!! ^O^/

If you could transform, like a Transformer, into any machine what would you be and why?

One thing for sure, this is probably the most interesting (but somewhat complicated though LOL) question ever, but anyhoo, to the answer!

My choice would be of a land-type vehicle and let's picture it out as a Mazda model type of car of sorts. XD Why I chose to be of that alt mode (I'm sure you know it!), is quiet simple; All I want is to be open-minded towards the environment I have around where I can explore everywhere in a freely way of manner.

Additionally, it's best to be responsible towards traffic rules out there 'cause well, it's one of the important aspect I have to undergo as a car-type alt mode.

And if you're wondering why I chose this instead of an aircraft type where you can freely fly everywhere you ever wanted, but for me, it can be a hindrance. If I was meant to fly, there's no way this has some great aspect to me. I mean, still it's like exploring out there but whatever will happen if I fall down, and then can't get up? And what will happen to my seeking in life and how will I continue it? I hope you got my point, 'cause let's just say I'm an Icarus-portrayed Transformer who was once a Decepticon but later joined the Autobots choosing a form that which best suits me and what is right for my path I am creating.

This is something to contrast my life as well, where situations get worse when I handle it until I notice that finding what is right for me and my so-called "future" are something I have to make.

So there you go, me being a Transformer who chose to be a car alt mode instead XD. I mean, I did had a good time answering this despite how long and somewhat meaningful it is. XD So yeah, really, life can be like this right? Oh well, just make sure of choosing your path in a careful manner and you'll see what's best that makes your life easy and stable. ;3

Shiei

2009-05-01T10:00:00.005+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

I’m Shiei. I studied Fine Arts at Technological University of the Philippines majoring in Advertising arts for 3 years; I stopped since I had to move to America. I met a lot of creative people during my 3 years of college in the Philippines and a lot of them serve as my mentors. I also took a few classes of figure drawing and studied graphic arts in CA.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

It’s what I love to do; growing up I was already interested in drawing (much to the complaints of my parents of me wasting paper)

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

Typical day ...hmm basically after I do my usual chores, I go online and start working till evening or usually till I pass out (the basic life of working at home).

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I've worked with Seven Seas doing two of their manga/comics Aoi House and Amazing Agent Luna. Right now, I'm working on Avalon manga and novel also by Seven Seas.

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

First, I think about what story or emotion I want the audience to feel before I sketch. After the sketch was done I go ahead and ink and color it in Photoshop.>> Though it usually doesn’t come that smoothly since I’m constantly ending up with a pile of unused sketches XD

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I only use Photoshop at the moment, coloring flats first before shading. I usually end with a ton of layers (sadly)

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I would listen to music, read manga or just customize dolls (pullips and BJD ) or just stop drawing for a while to refresh the mind.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

Chibis! They are cute, fun and easy to draw.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

CLAMP, they are just plain awesome.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

I learned to be patient and not to be so much of a pessimist. (I still am…>> somewhat… )

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

Deviantart.com, denofangels.com

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Everybody keeps on saying this but…. PATIENCE is really needed to become a good artist. All of us had to start from somewhere, right ^^. Also, don’t be afraid of criticisms. Use them as a fuel to improve. Remain true to yourself, and be humble.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

They can note me at Deviant art (http://nekoshiei.deviantart.com) or by my email (shiei_blackfire[at]yahoo[dot]com)

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

They are for sale at Barnes and Nobles here in the US.

What song would you shake your head to?

My favorite song so far is “Let Go “ by Frou frou (I like most of her songs anyways ^^)

Sam Gelua

2009-04-17T10:36:00.005+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hello! My name's Sam Gelua. Goes by the name lires on some online communities. Born and raised in the Philippines. I like cats.. : D I studied Architecture in Central Colleges of the Philippines but never got to finish it. I think watching a lot of anime and drawing at the back of my notebook while in the teacher is teaching helped me to become the artist that i am now.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

When i first saw filipino made manga looking comics, it really made a large impact on me. That was also the day that i decided that i wanna be a part of that community. I wanna make my own too. : )

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

Hmm.. Wake up at 7am.. Eat, take a shower, go up stairs, then work on my computer. : D Well, since i now work at home, i don't get to work with people anymore. It's easier to work but sometimes boring. Then sleep at 10pm.. ^_^

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I've worked with Groundbreakers' Mangaholix. Colored Midknighters & Aporia. Exalted by White Wolf, also under Groundbreakers. Now i do avatars for an online community. (Not THE tv Avatar.. lol) I also did some bible illustrations for a church magazine. That was before i had a real job. : )

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

Well most of my illustrations comes from a simple but weird idea. I try to include things that i encounter. Like LRT, fishball vendors, etc. etc. Then from that i sketch what's on my mind at the moment. Then add other things that comes to my mind.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I always do flats first. I'm not the paint-from-the-start person. Then i search for a good light source. I play with contrasts too. I use SAI in coloring and PSCS for effects.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I look at works of others.. And steals their ideas.. O_O I kid, i kid.. XD I love doing photo-journalistic looking art. So i look at photos & arts with detailed backgrounds. : )

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

Girls. Cause i'm a boy. XD lol. But seriously, i prefer drawing girls or other cute things. Maybe because girls loves them.. hehe..

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

There are countless artist that i really look up to. There's OmeN2501 i don't know his real name but he's the best! Arts by Tony Taka. And from the locals, Kriss Sison. : )

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Ku ku ku! Those are top secrets.. XD Lot's of Photoshop tricks. Like creating a good ambience/mood. Making realistic effects. And many more.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

Deviantart, Pixiv & Danbooru (insert evil laugh here).. : D

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

It takes time to be a good artist. Be patient. Don't give up. If you really want to become an artist, start drawing now.. XD Be nice to fellow artists. Respect them & they will respect you.. ^_^

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

You can email me at lires14[at]yahoo[dot]com. Note me at Deviantart. lires.deviantart.com. Or pm me on my ym (creamson_red).. ^_^

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Nope.. : ) Though i hope i can make an Indie before the Komikon. I have prints on DA.

If a mad scientist could grant your request to make a custom gadget for you, what kind of gadget would you have him make?

A device where I can draw using my mind.. : D 10 artworks per minute. wouldn't it be cool? XD

Ryuuen

2009-04-06T09:13:00.008+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hi, I'm Ryuuen (not my real name, but most people know and call me by that name… even my professors!), born on the 21st of October and turning 22 this year of 2009. I took up BS Industrial Engineering in De La Salle University then shifted to AB Multi Media Arts in De La Salle College of St. Benilde. I dropped out just this December of 2008 for personal and health reasons. I studied a lot of things that includes designing, web, animation, video and audio, script and creative writing and also a bit of western comic illustration. I also had a lot of 'self motivation' and rivalry involved because I have this kind of personality that does not want to lose.

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?

I've been drawing since I was 10. Incredulously that time I drew nothing but realism with a blue ball-point pen on a composition notebook. But as I grew put, my granny ( who was staying in Japan with my cousins back then ) kept on sending us anime VHS tapes ( Anpanman, Doraemon, SailorMoon, etc. in Japanese dub ). I guess that was the start of it all.

I only started getting serious in drawing anime when I was 12-13, during 2nd year HighSchool when me and a friend decided to start our own novel. Sadly, my friend dropped the collab work. Haha xD I only started drawing comics on late of 2006. Got around it because of OCBC/OCTs (Original Character Tournaments) in DeviantART, and then improved on it quite a lot… not to mention I draw comics quite a lot as well during my free time.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

I wake up at random times since my sleeping schedule is all wacked up. I do some household chores for a few hours, and then get in front of my computer for the rest of the day till who-knows-what-time working, drawing and chatting. Sometimes I go back to bed after 2-5 days of working or drawing (and eating). I usually work with people from the other side of the world ( commission clients) or the people from CreaM Creative Media company, which are mostly 2D animators―I'm just placed on the comicking department as a freelancer.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I've worked as a Scene/Event artist for a UK-based game company, Hanako Games, for the project Fatal Hearts (http://www.hanakogames.com/fatal.shtml).

Last November I worked on CreaM Studios' very first comic project FlyAswang (http://flyaswang.deviantart.com) as a comic penciller, inker and toner.

Currently working on 'Mother Hen', a comic project from a client in Chicago, USA.

I'm also waiting for the start of CreaM Studios' 2nd comic project "Pintakasi" which will be done in dirty western comic style. I've also made and sold my own self-published comic during the KOMIKON last 2007 entitled DUWP:Under the Rain ( can be read here: http://duwp-productions.deviantart.com/art/DUWP-Under-The-Rain-Cover-74005222) and is currently undergoing a story and comic revision for this year's KOMIKON and M3Con.

I also have other comic projects for the said events namely: The Puppet Master, Away From Fantasies, Soul Capture, MUNE and SDL : Seasons. Hopefully I can finish them before the said events. P:

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end? First, I visualize everything in my brain, and when I get the general idea of what I want to draw, I start sketching it out. After that, I ink it or if I'm feeling a bit more enthusiastic about the work, and if I really like it, I'll just skip the inking process and just start colouring over it.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I have.. I lot of colouring processes, it kind of depends on what kind of feel I want the picture to have, also what media, and if it is digital or traditional.

For the record this is one of the colouring process I use for coloured pencils http://ryuuen.deviantart.com/art/Coloured-Pencil-Tutorial-FCver-96492903 Digitally, I use programs like SAI and Photoshop for airbrushing and cel-shading. However, if I want a more painting or traditional feel on my art stuffs, I use Painter or OpenCanvas. If traditional, I vary from crayons, to coloured pencils, oil pastels, inks, watercolours, alcohol based markers to paints.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

One thing I do to keep myself creative is sing to myself. ( LOL ) Other than that, I watch movies, cartoons and/or anime during drawing/working just to keep myself from getting bored on what I'm doing. I also chat/talk and ask other people for suggestions on what to do or draw.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?

Faces, hands and action/dynamic poses. I like drawing faces because they give you a wide variety on what to draw! Not only in form, also with what they can convey, which are also known as emotions. I like drawing hands coz they seem so delicate, even if… they are not sometimes… and that they are fun to draw as same goes for action and dynamic poses.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

I don't really have any specific artist in mind… as long as I see good art, it excites me. Most specially if I can challenge that person into a comic showdown!

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Digital Painting from Christina Chua, Toning basics from Pat Aguasin, Western Comicking basics from Sir Gerry Alanguilan, 2D Animation Basics and advance techniques from Sir Nelson
Caluigia, etc.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

DeviantART, OneManga… there's not much websites I go to… > A>

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Practice! You may have the talent to draw beautiful pictures but if you don't practice, you won't improve. Improvement has its own pace for everyone so don't feel badly if someone younger or older than you is better than you; think that you'll be there someday! It's just a matter of perseverance and determination! Don't let anyone put you down; else challenge yourself if they do! But also don't feel so proud of yourself that it may turn to conceit and false pride. Always take humility on what you do and what you can do.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

People can contact me through my email: ryuuenoniichan[at]gmail[dot]com YM and Skype: ryuuen_oniichanMSNM : ryuuen_oniichan@hotmail.com AIM : ItamiJiko

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

So far, I'm currently in production of 4 comics and 1 art book. Hopefully it would be out for sale soon :> (Though, they would be by order only)

What is your favorite samurai show and why?

That would be Rurouni Kenshin (samurai X, english title). I don't really have much of a choice since it's the only samurai show I've watched other than Afro Samurai movie (which was senseless, but good animation and shots ). Though, I liked RK for it's stories and depiction of sword fights.

Elmer Damaso

2009-03-06T18:30:00.011+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

I studied Fine Arts at the University of Philippines, Diliman majoring in Visual Communications. I didn’t join any clubs back then, nor have I attended any workshops, but I had a lot of friends who more or less helped me by sharing their knowledge and skills on art and comics/anime/manga.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

Maybe it started with my fascination for my dad’s work. He is not really a graphic artist, but he used to draw a lot of stuff for me. He also made me a poster of the then popular “Voltes V”. Next would be my uncle. He works in an advertising company, and I used to watch him work with all those tracing papers, poster colors and markers (and also the transfer lettering that was popular during that time).

Watching a lot of cartoons and reading comics as a kid also made me want to be an artist. I wanted to animate stuff. I wanted to draw stuff that people will appreciate.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

A typical day for me would be waking up, having breakfast, go straight to work. Finish an acceptable amount of work. Come afternoon/evening, spend the rest of my time with my wife and kids. But sometimes, I work overtime.

Being a freelancer who works at home, I seldom interact with anyone in the same industry as I am, unless you count the chats or emails with fellow colleagues, and the occasional visit to the Digital Art Chefs office in Marikina.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I have been an artist for Culture Crash (One Day Isang Diwa and Cat’s Trail) for the duration of the company. I have also worked as a freelance artist for L.A.-based Seven Seas for the following: Unearthly, Ravenskull, Speed Racer, Ninja Diaries, and the still unpublished 10 Beautiful Assassins. I regularly contribute artwork to K-Zone Philippines (How To Draw and various articles), and also contribute artwork for K-Zone Australia’s “How To Draw“.

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

For the traditional method, I usually start off with a concept. Then I try to sketch the idea on paper. It may take a few tries until I get the exact layout or composition. Once I get the sketch right, I then ink it (and color it if needed).

Recently, I just go straight to a drawing or painting program on my PC and do everything there.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I ditch the traditional method and go straight to my favorite PC programs: OpenCanvas (for the actual painting) and Photoshop (for additional color/tonal corrections and effects). In OpenCanvas, I use only one layer if working with a single figure. But if I have to compose several subjects complete with background, I work on each item in a separate layer. After everything is colored separately, I make a copy of the whole composition in a new layer and make other adjustments and paint the smaller details. If I am satisfied with the results, I export it to Photoshop for tonal adjustments, cropping and final SFX.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I sometimes surf the net for inspirational art, or read my old comics, or watch anime. Otherwise, I play with toys (and with my 2 little boys).

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

I prefer to draw emotive illustrations, so I usually draw people and anatomy. I also like fantasy characters and environments compared to realistic or modern backgrounds because I don’t like to research a lot. That way, I’ll just use my imagination.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

Haruhiko Mikimoto (Macross), Kousuke Fujishima (Ah! My Goddess!), Masamune Shirow (Ghost in the Shell), Adam Hughes (X-Men and various), Derrick Wyatt (Transformers Animated), Sean Galloway (Spectacular Spider-man)
What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

I remember catching a demonstration of Mr. Rafael Pacheco in SM Megamall a long, long time ago. I just couldn’t believe that he’s only using his fingers/hands for painting! I swear I could’ve turned my head once, looked again, and his masterpiece was almost done. I also saw him use this piece of glass to create some textures. Wow! His works are amazing, and he does it so fast and almost effortless.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

Conceptart.org, deviantart.com, transformers-related websites… haha!

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

You have to be very patient and practice a lot. Always have an open mind, search for different methods and styles, and listen to what others have to say. It is good to show fellow artists what you’ve done and have them critique your work. You may miss some details that the others may pick up.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

They can reach me by email: iq40mail[at]gmail[dot]com or visit my blog at: bwrain.blogspot.com

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Most of my recent works are published in the US. I am not sure if they have copies of it available in local comic book shops and retailers.Maybe interested parties can ask the shopkeepers if they can make a special order? I’m not sure if that works. I sometimes show up at events and may be able to bring some of my stuff for sale.

Also, if they are interested in my other works outside manga and comics, the local K-Zone has some of my illustrations. For the year 2009, I will be supplying them with their How To Draw segment (Art Fart). If it becomes successful, it might run for a longer period. K-Zone is published monthly and sold at most bookstores and malls.

What would you do if the Cat's Trail gang and the Transformers (Autobots) dropped by your house in the middle of the night?

I’d probably ditch the Cat’s Trail folks and join the Autobots. Haha! Seriously? I and my family will have a group shot with both parties and I will be the envy of my neighborhood. Besides, my 2 boys will probably be very, very HAPPY and will probably be talking about it for the days to come.

Jay Paolo Tiquia

2009-02-23T11:33:00.011+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Greetings my fellow people in every place somewhere on the earth!^^, you can just call me Jay, Jaypao, Paolo, JP or anything you are comfortable calling me, but my whole name is "Jay Paolo Darlucio Abarientos Aguila D' Tiquia" or short for "Jay Paolo Tiquia" YEAH! XD well just joking.

Anyways I was born in February 1, 1988 somewhere in Quezon City Philippines but i live Valenzuela city. I'm still a student right now in college in University of the East (UE) Caloocan campus taking my 3rd year of Fine Arts major in Advertising and hoping to graduate in year 2010 XD.

The things that helped prepare me to become an artist that I am today are those people who always give their support to me. Like my family, friends, classmates, especially God who gave me this Talent and who I am today(since i came to a Christian Family and also my father was a Pastor so don't ask why ^^) and those things that gave me inspiration to draw.

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?

When I was just a kid (maybe around 3 to 4 years of age) one of my cousins who babysit me was very strict with not letting me go outside our house, so the only thing that I would do is watch television shows, and I think that time the only anime that I first watched and got interested in was Dragon Ball.

It convinced me to draw my first anime and after that I always drew and watched TV the whole day, everyday. That's what inspired and convinced me, I think? ^^

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

As for this moment, I'm still just a student. Wake up in the morning for around 6:00 or 6:30am eat my breakfast, take a bath then go to school then attend all of my subjects mostly major subjects in MWF and minor subjects in TTH and go back home at around 7:30 or 8:30 in the evening(because I was full load so it starts at 7:30am to 8:00pm straight during MWF, while 3:00pm to 7:30pm during TTH)

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

For now I'm not working yet, so I do my "Plates" or what you can say as projects in my every subjects in school like Scenography(where you will plan and design a stage for theatre play, Variety show, beauty contest, etc.), Cartooning( Ofcourse design and creation of cartoon characters and all about cartoons.), Painting(where you paint subjects like portraits or picture of people, landscapes, etc.)

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

When I just feel of drawing something or got bored I just draw, and also when i got inspired by other artworks or watched anime series I begin to draw.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I'm much comfortable when I draw an artwork in Traditional way by pencil, ink, markers, watercolor, pencil color, poster color,Colored pens,and oil paints. Im not that really good yet in digital artworks because of lack of more experience, the only media I usually use in digital is Photoshop.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

Watch movies and anime series, watch other great artists and also I'm obsessed in details.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?

Mostly cute, sexy, and cool anime girls with cute and detailed costume and weapons.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

Animator of Gundams and other mecha stuff, next is Animators of CLAMP because of their costume designs and lastly some monster artists in deviantart like Stanley Lau AKA "Artgerm", redjuice999, zeiva, and all great Filipino artist "Saludo aku sa inyu!! XD"

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Well since I'm not that good at digital artwork and still improving myself at it, there are people who have posted tutorials in Deviantart in how to color and lineart in Photoshop that I learn and still improving it to my mind.

Also there was this professor in our painting subject who's amazingly good in all kinds of traditional artworks, I really want to adopt his style.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

For now my only favorite website is Deviantart, because this is the only website I always go to.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Well the only tip I can give you all is that don't lose your interest and inspirations in making artworks and try to develop it no matter what happen.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

For now if you to cantact me just email me at tiquiapaolo[at]yahoo[dot]com or try to send me a note in my gallery and deviantart :"jaypao.deviantart.com"

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

For now still working on my manga, and if you just want me to draw something for you just try and contact me, for now i can give to you for free, if I had just a time to work on it. ^^

Thanks!

What are your plans after university?

As of this moment I'm in third year in my course and planning to have an OJT in eiher GMA or ABS-CBN, still deciding which one would be better, If GMA we have a relative there who can help me get their (and hope she help me to get there ^^) and if in ABS-CBN I'd like to work on HERO TV since I'm a fan of anime. And after graduating I'd like to to work in either of the station or perhaps any company that needed or open to an Advertising graduate like me.

Sachsen

2009-01-29T11:23:00.015+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hey there! My name is Eric aka Sachsen, born 27th of February, 1985. I took up Fine Arts: Advertising Arts at Aquinas University of Legazpi. I spent about 1 year and a half there before dropping out. Don’t ask why :].

I started getting really serious in drawing the day I discovered Adobe Photoshop. I was never good at using traditional tools like pencils, paint and ink, so Photoshop’s like a godsend to me.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

I guess artistic talent runs in my family, since my siblings and a couple of my cousins can draw too.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

Wake up around 8 in the morning, eat, poop, etc, then go to the office (usually late). Sign out at 6 pm, then either I go straight home or hang around at some mall.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I’ve helped animate a few cartoon shows back when I was still a flash animator, like Eliot Kid (Disney Channel), Ricky Sprocket (Nickolodeon) and Martha Speaks. Right now, I just pose characters for a new toon series called I. N. K. (Invisible Network of Kids)

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

Think of a concept then draw away! Most of my art gets scrapped this way though.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I draw everything digitally using a tablet and Adobe Photoshop.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

Check out other people’s art, read lots of books, play videogames…listening to music helps too.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

Contrasting themes like horror and gore mixed with cute stuff. A childhood spent watching Ghibli animations and the Hellraiser movies really screwed me up, hehe.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

Two very talented (and crazy!) peeps, Mariel “Kinuko” Cartwright and Paul Robertson. Check out some of their work at http://visublog.mechafetus.com/ and you’ll know why : D Also some hardcore artists I’ve met in Pixiv.net like Asagiri, Tagane, Kikai/Akita Morgue and HUKE.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Well, there’s this one dude from DA who posted a really useful technique on his journal. Basically you flip your drawings to spot mistakes. You guys should try it out and see for yourself.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

My main source of inspiration, Pixiv.net. It’s sorta like Deviantart, only Pixiv’s a gazillion times better and bull****-free.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

If you want to improve, make tons and tons (and TONS!) of drawings ‘til your hands fall off. Pretty soon you’ll be drawing like the pros! OR if you don’t have the patience to do that, you can sell your soul to the Devil for instant uber art skillz. E-mail me if you want his number!

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

You can note me at my deviantart account (sachsen[dot]deviantart[dot]com) or email me at my old email add at i_3at_ch1ldren[a]yahoo[dot]com. I rarely go online now, so it may take a while for me to reply back.

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

I have some prints for sale on DA. I also do commissions when I have the time.

If any movie monster started to appear on the face of the earth, which one would you challenge and why?

Pinhead and Pyramidhead, though I’d rather ask for their autograph or something…maybe hang out with ‘em and pick up girls. I heard Pyramid head Is great with the ladies :D

Jeneko-chan

2008-12-15T10:32:00.008+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

My name is Jeneko , 17 yrs old and I'm currently a 1st yr , BSN (nursing) student in Far Eastern University – Main. I'm an anime fan, an avid gamer and an artist ever since. Anyway, I've started drawing when I was about 12 yrs old (very late I know) because I idolized a classmate of mine who was really good in drawing who introduced me to devart. Oddly enough, I'm one of people who wanted to be an art student at first, but wasn't permitted to become one, so I ended up in Nursing. I'm fine with the course now (and loving it), but I can still see that I still love art amidst being deprived from it . I haven't taken any art lessons (except those in MAPEH subject in HS ) I guess I was able to become what I am today because of admiration, persistence and being enthusiastic about art.

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?

I was mainly convinced because of all the awesome artists at Deviant Art and the thousands of epic artworks in the website.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

As of right now, I don't really have day offs (except Sundays) so I always end up just studying for my free time and stay at school for the rest of the day. During vacations, I either draw, play video games, SLEEP, read manga or.. BUM OUT :)

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

The last time I've worked on something was some bookmarks and key chains to sell at a con plus the several anthologies I've joined. Other than that, I mostly do illustrations to relax myself.

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

I usually start with the scene in mind then everything else follows.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

It's really simple, it's just a matter of how long have you been using that style . I used to color using tutorials that I see and the next thing I know, I'm doing it on my own. :]

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I guess visiting art sites like DeviantArt and PIXIV.net is my way to keep myself creative.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?

I mostly draw fantasy or just anything happy and cute. Drawing is like my outlet when I'm stressed so I always try to be happy while drawing thus the outcome.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

I love CLAMP and Koge Donbo 's style a lot but KUROT @ deviantart excites me the most. This is kind of silly but I've been a fan of her artworks ever since I started this hobby of mine.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Mostly everything. I draw because I get inspired by a lot of people thus them learning from them.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

My favorite sites include Deviant Art, Crunchyroll, PIXIV, Livejournal, and some random gaming sites.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Practice doesn't make you perfect but it does make you a LOT MORE BETTER :] I practiced a lot (and sacrificed a lot of time) to be able to attain what I have right now. No one in the whole wide world can get better in just a day.
If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?
You can email me at jeneko[at]gmail[dot]com or drop me a note at http://jeneko.deviantart.com.

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

As of right now, I don't have anything to sell mostly because of time/school issues. I do go to cons sometimes and sell my stuffs there.

Thanks!
Thanks again! glad you like my art somehow ^_^ makes me happy.

Who is your favorite anime couple?

I have a lot of favorite anime couples since I'm a big shoujo fan myself but then I guess the pair I favor the most right now is Tomoya x Nagisa from Clannad.

I am attracted by their innocent and bittersweet love as well as their sad story. I also like Rosette x Chrno from Chrno Crusade because of the same reason. I guess you can say I'm a fan of those sad love stories or mainly sad stories :) (amidst me being the cheerful type haha)

Dana Martinez

2008-12-09T13:08:00.026+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepared you to become the artist that you are today?

I attended grade school at St. Joseph's Elementary Center in Manila,
and then later at St. Ignatius Learning Center after we transferred to
Mindanao. I attended high school at Xavier University for three years,
and then quit and took a government qualifier exam, picking up random
jobs in the interim. All throughout that time I... guess I paid a lot of
attention to moving pictures, aha. I watched a lot of cartoons as a kid
and because we always had pens and paper lying around at home it wasn't
hard to find interest in drawing. I think reading a lot of books and
watching a lot of cartoons helped me the most, because it kept in me an
active interest for the mediums at all times.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

A lot of things, and a lot of persons, some of which have already been
interviewed here! The entire Culture Crash Comics series, and the
people behind it, they were a very very big inspiration for me, because
before them I wasn't really into drawing as much as I am now, and reading
CCCom really just made me go "wow, this is possible". I used to think
that normal people like me couldn't do stuff like that unless they lived
outside the country or were extremely fortunate. Jennyson Rosero's
works in the Questor magazines were also a big inspiration, and then I
found a battered copy of Gerry Alanguilan's "Wasted", and have treasured it
since. Ultimately, though, a brother-figure of mine convinced me to
pursue this drawing hobby a little further - Kuya Mads, I owe you a lot!

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

...Hmm. Since I opted not to attend college this year (I'm still
undecided on what course to take, woe) a typical day for me involves waking
up at around eight, then cleaning up around the house, do laundry if I
have any, and work on making lunch. After that I pretty much have too
much time in my hands until I have to work on making dinner, so I'd watch
TV, check my mail, read books or draw a whole lot. Though, I did get
myself a new job recently, so this routine's going to change soon. As
for people I work with... I have my friends? Almost all of them draw, and
the ones who don't, they write, so... mostly we just show each other
what we've drawn/written recently and criticize these things until
forever, which is fun. The conversation goes several miles in nine
directions after that, though, so I'm never bored when we're all together.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

Uh. Well, I've done small commissions over at deviantart.com, and I've
joined random art contests here and online, but I've never worked on
anything big yet. I do make my own comics, just to see if I can, and I
sold some copies of LAVI:-FUZZ- at Komikon 08. I suppose I'm a
semi-serious artist? Pretty amateur/independent at best, if anything.

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind,
from start to end?

I don't really have a set process, now that I think about it, but I
always start out with an idea and a short play list. Pretty much all of my
pieces in my devart account have song titles for piece titles, because
I can only listen to two or three - even just one - song for one
drawing, or I get distracted. I can't focus when it's quiet, funnily enough.
I guess, what I think about most is what the illustration should look
like, and I'd just let it draw itself without thinking too deeply into
it. There usually are a lot of mistakes, this way, and I usually end up
drawing something that looks nothing like how it started out, but I
like how random things get this way. Commissions are a little different,
though, since I usually get a specific theme/pose/idea for those, but
the work process is pretty much the same. ...This isn't very insightful,
is it. D:

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all),
as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

Colors... I have struggled a lot with colors because I have never been
good at color combinations until recently (actually I'm still bad at
them, my color mixes are either too bright or too dull!), so I tend to
use monochromatic or blinding color themes for everything. When coloring
digitally, I only use Photoshop 07, particularly the brush and eraser
tools. I start with cleaning up the lineart I'm going to color, then
choosing the background color, with a grey or red overlay. Then on a
separate layer I just use the default hard brush and color away everything,
switching between several different shades of a particular color for
shading/skin tones/etc. After that I just erase everything that goes
outside the lines, pick a texture from my resource folders or make a new
one, set it on overlay or soft light filter... then add a ton of
gradients, brush-overs, washes, re-colors and generally just experiment with
everything until I chance upon a look I like. It's a long, loopy process! I
prefer coloring things traditionally, to be honest, but markers are
too expensive and watercolors and I do not go well together. Woe!

Inks, though, I can never complain about! Except maybe for how much my
hand would hurt after, but it's a hurt I forget when I'm done. For
inking I use Sakura Microns, Copic multi-liners and fine line pens, and Uni
Pin pigment pens. My default working point size is 0.05, followed by
0.1, but sometimes they're not thin enough. Blue or red lead pencils are
also something I love working with, too, since they make pencilling
easier, and helps with inking later on.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

MUSIC! I love music so much, especially dance music and rock. Currently
I'm listening to Girugamesh, a bunch of anime theme songs, and a lot
of Bjork, Interpol and Bloc Party. After music, I guess movies count as
an inspiration source, but recently I'm more into American TV shows
like Prison Break, Bones, the Law & Order franchise, and CSI:LV. Re-reading
books also help keep my creative juices going, like William Golding's
"Lord of The Flies" and Edgar Allan Poe's works.

...And reading comics, too.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

I go through phases where I absolutely love drawing girls in pretty
clothes, then move on to drawing ambiguously gendered people in pretty
clothes, then to drawing little boys and girls in pretty clothes. ...I
like drawing clothes. I love drawing pretty clothes!

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

This question makes me want to flail! The list is long and... long.
Linework-wise, and this list is probably the list that makes me the
happiest when they update with new works, my favorite illustrators and comic
artists would be Shirow Miwa (Dogs: Bullets & Carnage), Sho-u Tajima
(MPD Psycho) and Christy Lijewski (RE:Play, Grand Scope); their lines are
really really amazing, for me, and I just feel like crying when I see
their lineart. For the "shonen manga" feel I'm a big fan of Hoshino
Katsura (D Grayman), Takeshi Obata (Death Note), Ito Ogure (Tenjo Tenge,
Air Gear), Kubo Tite (Bleach) and Akira Amano (Hitman Reborn, though I
don't have any interest in reading it, sadly). For pretty clothes and
general prettiness I follow Kaori Yuki (Angel Sanctuary), Foo swee Chin
(muZz) and Yun Kouga (Loveless, Gundam 00). There's also a long long
list of devart account names, but aha, I should cut things off to here or
it'll be too long! Incidentally, the new season of Gundam 00 and the
whole Mushishi animated series make me a very very happy person.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other
artists that you have worked with or seen?

I learned about lightboxes from C. Lijewski, and ever since seeing one
at a friend's office I've wanted one so badly. Not really a technique,
but its existence makes me horribly happy as an inker! I also learned a
few tips on how to use markers from looking at manga artists' splash
pages, and the colored-lead to grey-lead pencilling process has been a
great help for me. Learning how to use tones digitally is another thing
I'm so happy to have learned, as well, because without it I don't think
I could've made my comic pages look better. There are probably a lot
more things I've learned off other people, but I can't recall nor place
my finger on them as there's likely a whole lot that I've never noticed
I picked up.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

Livejournal.com is possibly my most frequented site, after my email
account, and I get most of my community updates there for manga and anime
series I follow, as well as a good number of art blogs, like zombiejam
and visceralprince. Deviantart.com comes next, followed by hypeem.com
and elbo.ws, two music blog aggregator sites.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have
any tips you could give?

Horribly cliche answer: Practice! And learn to criticize your own work,
as well as be receptive to critique when it is given to you. Also,
take some lessons or pick up some guides, whether it's on anatomy or
layouting or whatever you feel you need to learn and can't figure out on
your own. It won't guarantee you that you'll be a great artist, but at
least it'll give you a more concrete idea on how things work and help make
you better. And never think that you're the best, never let thoughts
like that get into your head; it'll ruin you, further down the line.
Always strive to improve yourself, because there's never a finish line
when it comes to art.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be
contacted?

Please just email me! My email address is at kidcorva[at]yahoo[dot]com.
If Yahoo keeps bouncing your emails back, though, please just leave a
message at my devart account (lambchild.deviantart.com), or my
livejournal (firstofsummer.livejournal.com). I check these three
accounts regularly unless I'm out of internet coverage, so I should get
any messages sent my way through these accounts.

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or
anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

I sell prints of my work at my deviantart account, but I don't have a
sales post so please just note me! Anything in my deviantart gallery is
available unless I state otherwise. I also do commissions through
there, I have a commissions post somewhere in there, JUST NOTE ME! I don't
bite at all. Comics-wise... I'll probably only sell at conventions, but
if it's something I've already printed out and I have a spare copy
lying around, I can sell them to you. Email me about this, though!


   
   
 
What favorite line from a film that you wished you could have said
yourself?

From Domino Harvey, of the movie "Domino": "Did you have a nose job?"
Just before she punches a sorority president in the face, even.

Demitasse-lover

2008-11-29T18:14:00.021+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hello! I'm Demitasse-lover. Born on September 28 *winkwink* 1990. Since we moved a lot when I was a kid, I've been to three different schools until I graduated from high school. Now I'm studying in UP Diliman. You're probably guessing that my course is FA.. well it's NOT. Strangely enough, I'm a BA European Languages student majoring in German minoring in French and would prolly like to learn Italian too.. heck, I want to learn everything.

Extracurricular... my previous school hates art so I ended up just being part of the school paper (as the cartoonist) I was also a member of the student council (but as the one who does odd jobs >.>; I also served as a back-up player (aka lucky charm) for several math competitions. Yes. I'm pretty useless. XD lol

Well.. I guess it's deviantArt that got me into this whole mess. I used to be the type who just ogles at fanart in Japanese fansites. Of course, I drew too but it never really occurred to me to post them in public. When I joined, I learned stuff, improved and so on.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

I’ve always loved drawing ever since I learned how to hold a pen. When I drew, people would always give me compliments and I really took them to heart (and I still do). Also, my older sister used to love drawing and she always taught me how to draw this and that. So I guess those two were my driving forces.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

A typical day for me is most probably like a typical day for everybody. I wake up, go to school, go home, eat, draw some rough sketches, do my homework, study, then go to sleep. Well, I’ve never worked with anyone before. It would be nice though. I like drawing with other people.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I’m working on my first ever webcomic, Death Brigade. Like I said, it’s my first ever webcomic so it’s not really that polished. But, hey, I’m learning. :)

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

It really depends. Sometimes I just draw without thinking. Pretty bad though, not advisable. I end up either not finishing them or actually finishing them but not posting them ‘cause it looks…I dunno.. uncreative? But when I can imagine a vivid picture to draw, I try hard to stick with it. Which never really happens but as long as it looks okay enough then, good.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

Well, it’s pretty basic that I believe I don’t even have to explain to anyone. One tip though: As often as possible, do NOT use dodge/burn tool. There are lots of colors in the palette that are just waiting to be exploi—I mean used. Try to experiment with them. :)
My usual media are Adobe Photoshop CS2 and pencil. But I also try out other stuff.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

Pretty much just live. You can find lots of inspiration from everyday life. You just have to notice them. Besides that, thinking helps too. I’m always in a train of thought, sometimes even when I’m doing something. I’d end up thinking of random situations and imagining how my characters would react were they placed in such situations. That’s pretty much how I think up my short comics.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

The combinations of the themes Horror, Cutesy, Action, and Fantasy intrigue me very much.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

I idolize quite a lot of illustrators (be it anime, realistic or something in between) but for now, all I could think of are Sachsen and Obata Takeshi. I like them, they’re very cool.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Well, pretty much most of the things I can draw now, I guess.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

deviantArt, mangabullet, youtube, and drunkduck. Plus, quite a few Japanese fansites of my favorite fandoms.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Wisdom eh? Um.. Practice. Don’t give up. Keep an open mind and learn from other forms of art as well. When you’re in a slump, don’t think of something negative like, “Oh no! I’m never gonna be a better artist!” I like to believe that slumps are just things in your head that tell you, “Hey, you’re in a transition stage to improvement so if you want to get through this phase, you better create something better than this.” Heheh I’m optimistic like that.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

You can e-mail me at purplehalfcup[at]yahoo[dot]com I can’t guarantee a reply though. I’m not very diligent at checking my mail. If you have a dA account, you can just note me. I reply more frequently there since I go to dA almost daily. Or if you have a Mangabullet account, then PM me there, my account is demi-luv.

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)?

If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it? Hmm. I don’t have anything for sale (at the moment). But maybe when I become more used to drawing comics, I might want to sell one. :)

Is there a character from a book or comic who you wish was a real person, and who you would want to chat with over coffee (or tea of you prefer)?

The thing with my characters is that almost all of them are the type you wouldn’t want to be chatting with over coffee.. Except for one. Maybe I’d like to have coffee with Capu. At least he’s nice. XD

Melvin Calingo aka Tagailog

2008-11-10T15:11:00.037+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

I spent my elementary and high school days in Pasig Catholic College (even got a loyalty medal for that haha.) I'm not really big on extra-curricular activities, but I think I remember joining the science club... and oh yeah, I was the artist for our school org in high school.

A major turning point in my comics life would be that time my friends and I decided to draw comics. I was in the sixth grade and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was the hottest cartoon around, so, being fans of the series, we decided to draw that. It was crudely made, folded oslo paper, cut in two, then drawn on with pencil. Each of us made his own comic, then we would swap comics until everyone has read each other's.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

The satisfaction I get from seeing people's faces light up when they see my work is my driving force I guess. Back in high school, I made a crappy "sentai" comic which I drew 1 page a day. I had a classmate who was a big fan of the comic, who kept pushing me to draw more and more pages. It was tough, but rewarding nonetheless.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

I go to work around 9:30 in Digital Art Chefs in Marikina. We do concept design works, mostly for animation and stuff. It's fun since most of the people I'm currently working with were also involved with Culture Crash comics. It's like working at CCCom again. Everyone in the office is in the same wavelength, so nobody's out of place.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I drew Pasig and the fish/squidballs in Kubori Kikiam for Culture Crash Comics, Modus3, an independent comic book, various comic segments for Komiks Atbp, Destiny's Hand 1-3 a manga for Seven Seas Entertainment, Ragnarok comic strips which appeared in the Philippine Daily Inquirer... and others I forgot.

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

When I'm drawing, I always criticize my work as I go along. If you see a flaw in your drawing, then most likely, others will see it too. If an illustration works, it works... if not, scrap it, or shelf it and fix it some other day.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

Way back in college, I used to color using watercolor, oil, acrylics, poster colors and markers... nowadays, I color almost exclusively using digital media. I use Photoshop and Painter with the aid of a wacom tablet to color my artworks. I tend to experiment a lot on coloring so if you will notice, most of my old works are colored differently from my newer ones.

Right now, I'm trying to emulate the classic coloring style of the old masters. Basically, I flesh out the tonal values first in black and white then add colors later on. I use a lot of brushes in Painter (too many to mention) but I usually start off with the Graphic Paintbrush and Smudge tool.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I try to read more comics and watch films. I barely get to read books nowadays though. I play games a lot... I guess that helps too.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

Nothing in particular, basically anything that tickles my fancy. A bulk of my work on deviant art are mostly fanart and original works. All if not most of them are manga or anime inspired.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

Locally, the best illustrators in the field for me would be Elmer Damaso, Kriss Sison and Jhomar Soriano. There are also a lot of illustrators making a name for themselves here and abroad... Gilbert Monsanto, Leinil Yu, Arnold Arre, Gerry Alanguilan and Carlo Vergara to name a few.

My all-time favorite illustrators abroad would have to be Jim Lee (X-men), Hiroaki Samura (Blade of the Immortal),and Masamune Shirow (Ghost in the Shell) among others.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

I've learned a lot from Elmer and Jio from way back when we were just starting out in Culture Crash. Photoshop and Painter basics, comic panelling, pacing etc... Of course we have our own influences, but we also learn from each other's techniques.

I guess the major breakthrough we thought of collectively in Culture Crash was the blue printout technique in drawing comics. Its just a fancy way of doing the trace over of a rough sketch in a lightbox. In this case, instead of inking over a line drawing, we scan and print out the pencilled lineart in blue ink. There are a lot of advantages in doing this, one, we preserve the original line art pencil when doing the inking, two, we skip the cleanup (erasing) part, since there is no pencil involved, and three, since we scan the page digitally, we can make alterations on the fly in Photoshop, adding or removing elements as we please.

I've worked with a lot of artists and I can say that you always have to keep an open mind when you're around them. A lot of them have brilliant ideas that they are always willing to share.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

Deviantart[dot]com and Conceptart[dot]org would be the top art sites in my list

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Keep an open mind and take criticisms in stride. Don't be dissuaded by negative comments, instead, take it as a challenge to make your skill better. Critics know what they are talking about, no matter how stupid some of them may seem to be. The worst thing you could do as an artist (or as a human being for that matter) is think that you are better than everyone else. Strive to be better, and always be humble. You'll end up looking like an ass if you think you are the best out there. Always keep in mind that there is always someone better than you.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

You can contact me through my DA account at tagailog[dot]deviantart[dot]com or through my email tagailog@gmail[dot]com.

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

You can buy our comics (Pasig 16 and Fresh!) at the Komikon or in Comic Odyssey at Robinsons Galleria

Thanks!

If it's possible that anything around you could be doodled and painted on, what object or surface (the road, a certain building, etc) would you wish to doodle/paint on and why?

Hmm... If I could draw on anything, I'd do a gigantic comic page on a city, that you can only see on a satellite photo or google earth haha

Jennyson Rosero

2008-08-02T14:27:00.008+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hey there! I would say my life was quite normal, as a boy, I loved watching animation and playing with toys. For college, I took up Architecture and after 2 years, I found my place as a student of Advertising Arts at UST. Hmm... preparation, I never got into drawing until my early years in high school. As a kid, sure, I scribbled a lot but I never thought I'd be doing this for a living.

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?
Comics and animation.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

Typical day... I wake up at around 9am, get ready, if I have time, check some emails, then go to the studio with my housemates Chester, Zid, Budi and Skan. Arrive in the studio 5 minutes later then have breakfast at a nearby Roti Prata place. I work with all the people at IFS.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

A lot actually. I did some thumbnails for Witchblade, Caliber, did a cover for Batman Gotham Knight DVD (but sadly, I guess through some confusion, they didn't use my cover), some card art for UFS, Chaotic, J2, Exalted and now I'm doing Freedom Formula Issue #2, after Chester.

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

Just do it. At the end of the day, I have a page ready... usually.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I rarely color my stuff nowadays since I'm doing pencils to ink for FF. I use Photoshop.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?
Look at hot chicks. Serious.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?
The female form. It's just perfection for me.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?
A lot of Japanese and Korean artists and the people I work with everyday who inspire me to do better.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Neat things... that creating art is a gift and always give it your best. Cliche, but it works.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

joelchua.com... Others... if I tell you, I'd have to hunt you down... refer to question number 7 for clues.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Been saying this forever but practice makes perfect.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

Uhm, I guess through DA, just drop me a message and I usually answer there. (2ngaw.deviantart.com)

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Sadly, no. Maybe in the future when everything clears up.

Thanks!

Thanks, bro! Anytime!

What are your top three favorite DVD movie/animation titles?

Favorite DVDs: Godfather, Star Wars (Eps 4-5), Fifth Element.

Kriss Sison

2008-06-08T22:00:00.021+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hi my name is Kriss Sison, born in Manila -year 1980, I studied Fine Arts at Technological University of the Philippines for 3 years and then dropped out.

I’ve been in the comics business since 1998, the first titles that I’ve worked on was Thunder Bubuli and TINK, then I did a lot of freelance works and now I work for Groundbreakers as manga artist for Ninja Girl KO!

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?

I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember and I just didn’t stop, it was a hobby that grew and I never got tired of.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

Hmmm… my body clock is a mess, I usually sleep around morning then wake up at noon, fiddle with the computer and play some tunes as I do my sideline job, usually I work alone (though I do get some assistance if I need help) then prepare to go for work, I come to Groundbreakers studio usually around night then work there till morning.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

Mostly comic book illustrations for local publishers and also for the US (eg: LAST HOPE, a Seven Seas Entertainment OEL manga). I also did some animation works.

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

Usually I would try to change or improve a little on the instructions given to make the illustration look better, I always like to keep things simple, easy on the eye and easy to understand, sometimes the art doesn’t end up with the look that I wanted and that is a little frustrating.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

Before, my choice of tools were colored pencils and water color, I don’t do traditional coloring anymore mostly because it is not practical to my current works, nowadays I do my colors digitally using only Photoshop. I usually start my colors doing a flat color layer, and then creating another layer for the renders, to end up with a smaller file size and quicker Photoshop response, I always try and keep my number of layers below 10.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

By observing things, it could be anything, basically anything or anyone that surrounds me.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?

Drawing cute female characters is what I enjoy most, they are fun to draw, and simply because I’m a sucker for anything cute, second would be mecha.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

I can’t choose, there are so many of them.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Digital inking and more coloring techniques.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

Mostly anime blog/reviews that feature new or old shows that may I may find interesting, and any websites that has the latest news in technology.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Keep on exploring and continue progressing with whatever you do. Be humble.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

You can send an email to: freezeburn32[at]yahoo[dot]com.

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Yes, my work is included in the Mangaholix manga anthology magazine; I’m the artist of the title Ninja Girl KO! written by Marco Dimaano.

Mangaholix is available thru National Book Stores, Power Books, Comic Odyssey, Fully Booked, and FILBARS.

Thanks!

Best regards.

How often do you remember your dreams?

Not so much, sometimes i can only vaguely remember.

Power-J

2008-04-18T00:32:00.021+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Anime, Manga & Games! MOE! XD Instead of drawing i write stories to0. :3 I study at the honarable only by me TUP-Taguig. XD Tee hee.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

God, family, friends, music & awesome artist! @_@

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

A typical day for me is a day with a good weather :3 and I work with my friends.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

Only my Runesu indie comics for now XD

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

Umm. I dont know just draw and draw without thinking XD

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I use poster colors. Umm... Before i start coloring I clean everything around me before i color. :3 just to have a refreshing moment coloring.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

Umm... The truth is I don't know XD

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

MOE :3 bcoz its MOE! XD

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Ummmm... too many things to mention @_@

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

World Wide Web dot Deviantart dot Commercial :3

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Be inspired always :3 God is the best inspiration. Bcoz all of the inspiration you'll have will came from God.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

Email XD

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)? If so, for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Just an indie comics for now I sell them in some conventions.

If you would be given a chance to have dinner with any famous person, who would you want to have dinner with and why?

Daisuke Ishiwatari!!!!!! *A*

Sao-Chan

2008-01-11T09:50:00.001+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Hi! Im Sao born October of 1983, lived in Pateros, Manila. During my elementary and high school days, I tried public and private schools, and I'm currently an undergrad. lol [but I'm on it right now -- finishing it]. My first college was in the province, Cagayan valley to be exact. I tried BSIT [yea-yea information technology] because there were no FA courses that time, but I was also no good for computers, then I transferred into an interior design course studied for 3 to 4 years, then gave up, went back to Pateros. I miss my home! D:>

I probably didn't take much to living in the province that's why I decided to go back were I was, I loved drawing since I was 7? And at first, my mom was against me drawing manga/anime. So that's that. Well, I guess, that was the start? ahahaha. ^^;;;;

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?

Hmm...I don't really know, but what I think before is that my friends in Manila were already leaving me behind because I was stuck in the province. ahahahah. [not a good thing though...] Anyways, I think it’s when every time I see a good artist and people are already ahead of me -- I was thinking, man, there’s a lot to catch up on. ^^;;;

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

A typical day for me is everyday - meaning when I’m always at home, either, sketching or playing games or with my dog and sleeping. I’m not such a bum yea? Well I never actually worked with somebody except when I worked with my friends in Funny Komiks and Neo. [rex, pchan, jack, etc-etc~!]

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

Hmm, I tried working for Funny Komiks every summer [only] when I think I was 17-18??? Then contributed to Ground Zero comics for their 2nd issue, and worked for Neocomics for almost a year. Currently, I’m taking Deviantart commissions just to relax and give myself a little stress. Just kidding.

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

My mind? I think most of them are adventures and fantasies, games then I make a story of my own, then "Hoola! I have another OC!" xD. I think that’s all.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I actually start with manual inking or penciling, then have it scanned if I wanted to color it in Photoshop. When I color, I use a mouse, since I didn’t have a tablet before [now I have 1 but I dont use it.lol]. If not the pc, color pencils are good - same methods with manual coloring actually. I start to color the skin then clothes then the hair then etc etc! xD.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I try to look to some of my favorite artists, browse images that they have then keep it back then I start to draw, I never copy really, I mean, I wasn’t good on copying pics or other arts, usually my references are only for inspirations. Except when I’m doing fanart. ahahaha! Sometimes, I play games with "good stories", watch anime[rarely], and games-games-games! I’m a bum now. T_T;;; lol.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?

Adventure! Everything about journey in life and one discovering true strength or power! And some slice of life things, well, its a part of me~! x3. Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most? Oh man! ahaha I have to tell this I guess. ok! Park Jeong Hoon, Kim Sera, Dmyo[cherrypin], Kubotite. What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen? Nya0! ahaha! I think its the face? Clothing and sketchiness. Length of body? Nyao! sorry... I dunno. -_-;;;

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

Deviantart, GaiaOnline, MangaRevolution, SmackJeeves, Cherrypin, Seed, Kim Sera. I think that’s all. :D.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Eh...um...it would never hurt to try. Positive! Dream! Forward! Practice ALWAYS makes perfect~! :3.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

Note me at DeviantArt, you can also mail me at sao.chan [at] yahoo [dot] com.

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Nothing really, but I’m planning to publish a book, no funds yet though. -_-;;;

Thanks!

Thanks for the feature~ God bless and Hugs to All~ =^3^=

What would you do with 3 million pesos?

hmm... 3 million?
hmm... 1m to dad + 1m to mom + 1m to me [savings, etc etc. lol] = 3m! xD. whee!!!

Brian Joseph Valeza

2007-12-21T22:03:00.001+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school, and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

Well I am a crazy loony artists that likes to go wacky, hehehe. I took up FINEARTS at FEATI UNIVERSITY here in the Philippines. Watching the master and asking questions is what prepared me to became the artist that I am today. Hehehe. Oh and read on to know more.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

I've always love drawing ever since I was young. Reading a lot of COMICS and MANGA further convinced me to be an artist, hehehe. To be able to go toe on toe with those artists is my goal.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

-Well, I wake up at 5:15am and prepare to go to work till 6:30am then, commute to work for at least 2 hrs. hehehe. Then do my work till 6:15pm then commute again for 2 hrs then eat suffer then go to sleep, then wake up and do the whole thing again the next day for rest of the week, hehehe. But it's OK cause I'm kinda enjoying work, and I was fortunate enough to have wacky officemates, hehehe.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I've done work for some book publishers as a freelance illustrator. Now I'm a freelance colorist for MANGAHOLIX (a local comic magazine) and a conceptual artist of RENDER DREAM (a new game design studio).

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

What goes through my mind? Well that's simple. I MUST SURPASS THE LAST ONE I DID, hehehe. If I've done something with blazing fire I must be able to do something different the next time but it must surpass that one without overdoing it, then do another one that will surpass that one again and so on and so forth, hehehe.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

Well, first I set a target, a digital coloring style that I want to learn, then try to imitate that, and fail gloriously, but I accidentally create my own style through that. Then improve it further more.

I'll tell you a secret. I'm not good at coloring, hehehe. Go to our school and I'm the last person people would ask about coloring, hehehe. I just know stuff when it comes to digital coloring in PHOTOSHOP.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

Reading comics and manga, watching tv and movies, listening to music, walking home, playing video games, looking at toys, looking at other peoples work on the web, looking at beautiful girls on the street on the way to work, listen to stories from my friends, almost anything in my daily life keeps me creative.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

Aside from mecha, everything that can be drawn is my favorite subject.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

There are sooo many illustrators whose works excites me the most. Pro and non-pro. I really can't pick just any of them since all of their works inspire.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

Work hard, be humble, and most of all -- enjoy your work.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

DEVIANTART.COM RULES!!! Hehehe.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

Just like what I've learned from other artists, work hard, be humble, and enjoy your work. Oh and this one that I've developed, INSPIRE and BE INSPIRED, hehehe. Gere' how it works (for me at least): every time I learned that I inspired someone with my work it inspires me to do more that will inspire others that will inspire me again to do more and so on and so forth. This way we all gain something.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

Telepathically, hehehe. Just kidding. E-MAIL me at totmoartsstudio[at]yahoo.com.ph or send me a NOTE on totmoartsstudio2.deviantart.com. But still, being contacted telepathically would be cool, hehehe.

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Well, I've done some coloring on issues# 2 and 3 of MANGAHOLIX which is in bookstores now, oh and sometimes (when I'm on the mood) I do FREE COMMISSIONS on deviant art to thank people for appreciating my works, hehehe.

Aside from being an artist/graphic designer, what other jobs would you like to try?

Back then I wanted to be a PALEONTOLOGIST, I love DINOSAURS, to study them was my dream, then growing up I kinda realized that, it ain't gonna happen, hehehe. But I still want to study dinosaurs.

Neil Arguelles

2007-11-27T22:00:00.001+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where did you go to school and what extra-curricular activities did you take up? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

I’m Frances Ashton Neil Arguelles. But Ash, Neil or Tofu would do. 23 yrs of age single and looking hehe! I took up Communication Arts at Far Eastern University, I also studied Culinary Arts somewhere in Makati and I’m still in school right now taking a short course on Photography. Basically I just like to draw and I didn’t take any art lessons but I’m planning to take one in the near future.

Ash just call me Ash please.

What inspired or convinced you to become an artist?

It's my first love, I used to collect comic books way back when I was in grade school and I was amazed on how artists could create lifelike sketches. I worship Jim Lee Frank Miller and Todd Mcfarlane back then. My teacher usually nags at me. instead of writing down lectures I draw funny looking stick figures on my notes. I was also the school journal’s art editor and since then I always dreamt of becoming an artist.

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

I got hooked up with radio broadcasting recently, as of now I’m working on a local radio station, on free days I teach Korean grade school students English and Tagalog lessons. I also take pictures but I’m still a budding photographer.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

Well I’ve tried indie comics with some friends and fellow artists. I’m working on a title right now though I lack time I still manage to squeeze in and do some rough sketches and lineart. This is for charity by the way, to help cancer patients. HELP 100

How do you go about an illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

Before I start making an illustration I make sure that the image has already materialized in my mind. Some artists would usually think on what others would say about their work or how they would react to it at first glance but I guess everyone should always take a second look at it and try to see the depths of the subject, there’s always a story behind every art.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I hate coloring, on traditional I use colored pencil and copics but most of the time I scan my sheets and use photoshop or painter for coloring.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I read a lot of books, most of my ideas comes from the books I read, you might find this weird but I watch F channel and I have a huge collection of fashion mags locked up in my drawer.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, and why?

Women! As most men would say.. A woman’s body is God’s best creation. I’m trying to work on my anatomy and facial expressions.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

A lot! Hmm locally? to name a few.. Whilce Portacio, Carlo Pagulayan and Chester Ocampo would be on the top of my list. There are a lot of talented Filipino artists out there, they just need a good break and a proper exposure. Heck we can even do better than the Japs.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen? (this is Question #10)

The usual accept bad criticism and learn learn learn proper anatomy, Listen to what others say about your work it’ll help you become a better artist and also try to go beyond your limits.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

Google and next would be of course Deviantart and Youtube, haha ! Any site that would feed my mind with information. Torrent sites tehee!

What wisdom could you give us, about being an artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

I’d also say the same thing (question#10) but based from my own experience I guess a good amount of sleep, proper diet and occasional book reading.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

Here’s my email yeytofu[at]yahoo[dot]com or they could always visit my DA page. You’d probably often catch me hanging out on malls particularly in the Ortigas area so just approach me and ask whatever it is that you want to know. Lol But don’t ask for money I’d probably ask the same question XD

Do you have any of your art work for sale (comics, prints, or anything)for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

Honestly eventhough I’ve been doing this for quite sometime, I don’t consider my art desirable. There are a lot of things that I need to learn. Deviantart lets artists sell their prints right? Just note me if you want one LOL I might accept commissions but I’m afraid I might frustrate them =(

Thanks!

Thanks.

If you were given the chance to illustrate an official cover art for an existing comic title, which comic title would you choose?

I’m a sucker for Spiderman titles it would even be a LOT better if the title would involve crossovers. A remake cover for Spiderman and the Ultimate Six. How about Spiderman with Son Goku?

Chester Ocampo

2007-11-18T16:36:00.004+08:00

Tell me a little bit about yourself, about your life? Where did you go to school, and what classes did you study? What helped prepare you to become the artist that you are today?

I'd like to think I'm an easy-going guy, but i get really serious when it comes to work. I took up Advertising Management at De La Salle University - Manila; it was a commerce course with little to do with the creative side of Advertising. In terms of art, I am, for the most part, self-taught. It's only here in our studio workshops that I ever held a charcoal and did some live drawing sessions. When I was younger, I used to copy certain elements in the styles of artists I liked. As I matured as an artist, I started analyzing why they chose to draw the way they do, and how i could make my drawings different. I also learned a lot of stuff from Burne Hogarth's Anatomy books, Andrew Loomis, and the old comics tutorials in Wizard magazine. These days, I try to observe scenes of everyday life: people on the bus, on the street, in the malls--their age, their clothes, their interactions. Although artworks of past and modern artists are great to look at, I have deduced that these are all inspired by real life, so now my art studies revolve around first-hand information: real life. This isn't to say that I would be doing hyper-real stuff anytime soon; this means that I am studying real life situations to make my drawings more believable, regardless of the style I choose to employ.

What inspired or convinced you to become an Artist?

I started out copying my brothers drawing Bioman. That's the first thing I ever drew outside of the usual kindergarten "art class" requirements. I kept at it because I found that at that young age, when new toys were only given during Christmas day and birthdays, drawing was like a toy to me. A toy that could make more toys, something that can express an infinite number of things both imagined and real. I still treat it that way up to this day, except I have a more mature way of describing it now hahahaha

What is a typical day for you, and who are the people you work with?

These days, most of my time is spent here in IFS, having nothing much to do outside of work, in a foreign country. I work with Imaginary Friends Studios here in Singapore, a talented bunch of down-to-earth people who have a great sense of humor. We handle several comics and comics-related projects, among others.

What are some of the things that you have worked on?

I've worked on pixel art for mobile phone games, concept art and texture mapping for a now-defunct 3D videogame project, print ad illustrations, magazine illustrations, online comics, print comics, and card art.

How do you go about illustration, what goes through your mind, from start to end?

My conceptualization process is flexible depending on what I want to achieve out of an artwork. If it's a no-brainer artwork, I usually just have one flimsy idea to base it on and go from there. These no-brainer artworks are just for exercise and are never meant to be taken seriously. If it's a more concept-oriented artwork, the process is usually more complex. As much as possible, I try to visualize all the elements in the image that are necessary to communicate the concept/message. Only when I'm confident about the picture in my brain do I proceed with actually working on it. This process is also flexible to accommodate last-minute ideas that strengthen the concept or the impact of the image as a whole.

Could you talk about your process in coloring your art (if at all), as well as the types of tools or media that you use?

I work 100% digital, with Photoshop and an Intuos 3. The common method that I use in coloring artwork is fairly straightforward: I set the line art layer on multiply and put it above the layers stack. Underneath are the layers with the base colors (midtones) and the background colors. Based on the lighting and the mood of the scene, I put in the shadows and then the highlights. Lighting decisions for the artwork are affected by time of day, weather conditions, indoor or outdoor, and self-illuminating elements (if there are any). I start putting in shadows similar to cel-shading; After which I blend shadows and midtones together. Highlights come in last.

But these days, as I learn more stuff here in IFS, I've started to incorporate some new techniques in my method, opting for a more painterly approach as opposed to lineart-based coloring.

What are some of the things that you do to keep yourself creative?

I expose myself to various media. The saying "nothing in, nothing out" holds true for every creative endeavor. But sometimes, exposing yourself to the usual stimuli can become so routine that it no longer has any effect on creativity. In instances like this, I try to break routine, which could be as simple as taking some time off and observe a beach scene. Or it could be as extravagant as blowing out a lot of cash on overpriced booze, cigarettes, and shopping. In any case, there's always a different solution whenever I find myself in a creative rut.

What is your most favorite subject to draw, And why?

I like drawing women because I find women, in general, are complex and mysterious. I also like drawing characters that I imagine stories for because I want to make my own stories someday.

Who are the top illustrators whose works excite you the most?

I have a lot of illustrators whose works I admire and have influenced my style over the past few years: Akihiko Yoshida, Paul Pope, Hiroaki Samura, Capcom studio, just to name a few. Right now, I saw James Jean's latest artbook (Process Recess 2) and I am just floored by his stuff.

What are some of the neat things you have learned from other artists that you have worked with or seen?

I've picked up a lot of tricks on technique that are too long to list down here so I won't talk about that. Virtue-wise, I have learned several lessons in humility and dedication. Humility in accepting criticism, knowing how helpful "fresh eyes" are; and humility in giving criticism, knowing what they're talking about when they give out comments. Dedication to quality and to the task at hand, that stems from discipline. Oh, and I've just realized how important research is, and how much research can add more subtle layers of depth and meaning to an image. An artist should not only have a fertile imagination, but a clear mental grasp of reality, history, culture, and life as well.

What are some of your favorite websites that you go to?

DeviantArt, for my daily dose of art and photography; Google, for visual research; Wikipedia, for information research; Newsarama and Comicbookresources for comics news; and Multiply for connecting with friends.

What wisdom could you give us, about being an Artist? Do you have any tips you could give?

I'm no "buddha on the mountaintop of coolness", but if there is something I could tell The Artist, in general, it would be this: your art is only as good as the life you lead. Of course, the word "good" is a relative term. Some artists lead f-ed up lives and churn out great, sincere artworks, totally influenced by their f-ed up experiences. Some artists lead mediocre lives but are observant, environmentally-aware, and imaginative and churn out great artworks as well. There's a writer's saying, "Write what you know." In the case of the artist, it's "Make art of what you know." And the only best way to know is to experience, or at the very least, know someone who has relevant experiences. And let imagination take care of the rest.

If people would like to contact you, how would you like to be contacted?

If anybody wishes to reach me, they can send me a note via DeviantArt, or e-mail me at chester.ocampo [at] gmail [dot] com . Although I must admit I'm a bit late in my responding to notes and e-mails lately, since I'm always neck-deep working on something. I'll hear anybody out, just no spam and silly requests, please.

Finally, do you have any of your art work for sale (sketchbook, prints, or anything) for fans of your work can know where and when to buy it?

At the moment, I don't have anything out there that's 100% my work. Most of my own stuff is online, and some actually wound up in Imagine Prime, the 2nd artbook of Imaginary Friends Studios, which is available for purchase through www.imaginaryfs.com . Maybe when I gather enough material, I can eventually publish a sketchbook or something along those lines, but I seriously think only a handful of people would actually buy that hahahaha

Thanks!

Do you imagine yourself (and perhaps your family) eventually migrating to Singapore or remaining as Filipino citizens?

As much as Singapore is a breath of fresh air compared to Manila (for one, you can go walking around way past midnight without fear of being stabbed for your cellphone), there are some cultural traits here that just do not fit my personality. It's great working here, but I would still prefer to raise a family in Manila. A few years from now, I'm sure I'll be back. And when that time comes, I hope I can finally make a significant difference for the Philippine Digital Art Industry. Because I believe that we can help uplift our country from the rut it's currently in, in our own, unique ways.