When did you first become interested in art ?
I was probably around the age of 8 and I was addicted to cartoons, I would repeatedly draw characters from my kids magazines and enter drawing competitions, In school I got a lot of “can you draw this for me?” I was that creative kid, always taking requests which in hindsight was great practise for commission work.
How would you describe your design style?
I’ve always slightly struggled with these style questions I think most creative folk do but I would describe it as playful, I love giving my illustrations fun characteristics and a feel of naivety with the textural painting and line work.
What inspires you?
I know its cliche and you’ve probably had this answer a million times but nearly everything is a source of inspiration, but to narrow it down animals, people, characters and stories are strong inspirations and tend to drive my work.
What is your favourite piece in your collection?
This is a toughie because i know by the time I’ve finished writing this I’ve probably moved on from liking it, but currently its’s my Rabbit, Rabbit piece mainly because I learned quite a lot about repeat patterning with that piece, also who doesn’t love cute blue rabbits.
Is there any artistic talent in your family?
I had a little chuckle at this question because my family are the worst at drawing, Pictionary is a nightmare with them, I do however have young niece and nephews that forever have a pencil in their hand doodling away so watch this space we’ll be the von traps of designing!
What is the journey you take to produce your work?
The journey involves a lot of sketching Im always accompanied by a sketchbook and doodle concepts through the day whenever where ever. I love the textural feel of graphite pencils and illustrate a final black and white version of my initial sketch, I then move it into photoshop and begin adding in colour using brushes that replicate the feel and look of traditional mediums.
What made you want to be a part of Art Rookie?
It was definitely the supportive feel that drew me in, it has created a little community for young British designers which i think is important. I also saw a few pieces designed by illustrators apart of art rookie getting featured in various places, I though it was great that these designers where gaining so much recognition.
When you’re not creating masterpieces what do you enjoy doing?
Other than a new creative hobby every other week! Photography has always stuck with me and to cut loose I like hanging with a good bunch of friends throwing shapes on the dance floor that can only be described as criminal. I find myself Binge Watching way too many TV shows (current favourite has to be stranger things.)
Have you faced any struggles getting your work noticed?
Of course! Social media can only take you so far and you often have to contact people directly, also resisting those pesky “you’ll get plenty of exposure” commissions which i always wanted to respond with three three words, not today Satan! Being apart of community’s such as art rookie is hugely beneficial to getting your work seen and allows you to network with fellow creative designers.
Where would we find you hanging out in the UK?
In little Old South Wales to be specific a town called Port Talbot. It has the perfect mixture of sea side and valleys, I’m usually chained to my desk working away on commissions and personal work.
What makes British talent different than elsewhere?
Hm I think we can be a little more playful and quirky with our approaches to designing. Almost unapologetic.
What are your plans for the rest of 2016?
Hopefully still getting in commissions and freelancing for the rest of the year, one of my current personal projects is a picture book thats a little tongue and cheek I hope to find a way to get that out into the world and I’d love to grow my collection with art rookie even further.
www.artrookie.co.uk/ NathanCollins
