An Illustrator’s Two Cents

Initially, my path as an artist began from reading and collecting comic books. Artists rendering whole worlds and characters in varied styles; their talent exuding through the pages. I lost myself examining the works printed within panels and spreads. I can recall the duo Chris Bachalo and Tim Townsend whom I still reference today. Stylistically unlike any other art found on the pages of comics, these two revolutionized my perception of comic book illustrations. Their juxtaposition of crisp lines and playful abstraction of spaces and objects resemble the unique talents of J. C. Leyendecker. I also recall stumbling upon artist Marco Rudy in the 2014 New Avengers Annual #1. I never imagined experimental and painterly illustrations could grace the pages of comics the way Rudy mastered. Every panel and page felt like an expressionist painting. I remember a body of illustrations and paintings in my undergraduate studies at the Art Academy of Cincinnati where I attempted the same. These artists marked the start of my obsession with “applied arts” such as comic books, concert posters, and fashion illustration existing on the outskirts of fine art. 

Ever since I got invested in reading comics, I have always passionately examined the endeavors of artists under the guise of applied arts. Often, visual art typified under fine art sometimes loses its soul, perhaps due to its intended collector. I could make a list of commercially successful artists that fail to instill spontaneity or deep emotion–but I won’t start that fire here. There’s an intimacy in viewership that is rarely sought in the artwork lining museum walls. It’s an intimacy possibly lost in the translation of relics displayed out of time and space. However, in the ephemera of artful objects, such as zines, comic books, and concert posters, art and design nurtures this relationship between the artist and viewer. In fact, prints have shifted in popularity but remain persistent forms of tangible art since the woodblocks and engravings of the 17th and 18th century. An influx of Japanese prints enamored the Impressionists in the same ways Charles Schulz’s Peanuts are staples in today’s collectible culture. In practicing print media and discovering the limitless diaspora of its use, I quickly discovered its earnest behavior. Viewership is a cultural-religious phenomenon that connects us to our past and allows us to shape our own philosophies. Although digital media has revolutionized accessibility in the art world, I believe it is necessary for individuals to access visual arts at their own pace in their comfort zone. 

With print media and commercial art, the discipline in producing multiples allows artwork to ignore the disparities accompanying private collections. The viewer often is the collector in relation to the artwork. In regards to concert posters and collectible art such as figurines and limited edition offset lithographs, the artist loses the obligation to pander to the scrutiny of the general audience of galleries and art world engagement. Instead, the artist openly showcases their language of design and style with a community that shares similar values and interests. Viewership is a cultural-religious phenomenon that connects us to our past and allows us to shape our own philosophies. 

Working at an auction company, I examine and identify art collections from a vast diaspora of people. Without the individual, I’m left with remnants of a person’s interests and fascination—sometimes it’s a forest landscape, an abstract with unique marks, or a portrait of a forgotten family member. When it comes to a secondhand market, instances where we lose branding of a household name, the artwork becomes less about the actual materials and prestige; rather, we begin to notice artwork that negotiates its meaning on how it works for the viewer-buyer. I have grown to be less concerned, and albeit trepid regarding, the use of “fine art” in the artworld. Artwork succeeds in its ability to negotiate meaning by remaining authentic. When we lose the red rope and bulletproof case, the viewer can freely experience and consume art.

Thoughts…

Something new! A space dedicated to writing reviews, reactions, and any findings I come across. Hoping to upload new writing content every week or two.

Not necessarily a strict guide for the writing uploaded; however, I’m keeping the spiriting of constantly being inspired or reconnecting with past inspirations. Maybe I will get a little socio-political or sometimes an up-close investigation on a very specific topic. Nonetheless, I’m excited to share my thoughts with you.