For the first S&S interview section, im proud to introduce young and talented illustrator... Mitch Blunt. Mitch is a UK based illustrator that graduated from Kingston in 2009. He likes to make witty, fun images and has a passion for drawing portraits. Previous clients include: The New York Times Magazine, Esquire, Wired, The Guardian, Institutional Investor, GOOD, Runner's World, AARP, The Improper Bostonian, Maisonneuve, The T.E.S, Little White Lies, Huck, The Big Issue, Reader's Digest, Breo, Fire and Knives, The Victoria and Albert Museum.
1.Which commissions do you enjoy the most, and which are most beneficial to you (if these aren't the same)?
I’m grateful for every job that I get so I always try and have fun with it and do the best job that I can do. Sometimes it can be hard though, especially if the copy’s super dull. There’s always something in the article that you can draw an idea from though.
The most successful jobs seem to come from having a good Art Director relationship and having their trust in you.
2.Whose work do you admire within illustration and animation; who or what inspires you from outside your own medium of work (if anyone/thing)? -What first inspired you to follow the route you have taken?
Lots of stuff, I look at a lot of photography and watch a lot of movies. Illustration wise, I’m really drawn to the more conceptual side of illustration. People like Pete Ryan, Mark Smith, Matthew Hollister and the master Brian Cronin. Seeing smart work inspires me to think harder.
3.How do you keep your work fresh? Do you need to consciously adapt your style or does it progress naturally?
It’s definitely a natural thing although last year I wasn’t happy with the direction that I was heading in and decided to change the way I approach new projects. Lately I’ve tried to not think about how the final artwork will look and focus more on complimenting the idea behind it. I think this has opened me up a lot and let me experiment and try new things. Now I’m much more excited about the work that I’m making.
4. What advice would you give an aspiring illustrator? -In hindsight, would you have done anything differently?
Don’t rip other illustrators off, it’s a small world and it will be noticed. Try not to work for free. I wouldn’t really do anything differently, I’ve learnt from my mistakes and moved on.
5.Where would you like your work to lead you? Have you any aspirations or plans for the future?
I just want to make work that I’m happy with and people respond to. If that leads me down different creative avenues then great!
I would like to work on more portrait commissions though!
6. one last thing, is there a track/band that you would like to suggest to readers to listen t at the moment?
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