Drawn Together: Unedited Interviews
Juan Solon
Interviewed by Cliff Sawit
Can you tell me a little about yourself as an artist? Did you take formal lessons?
My love of art started when I was a little kid,collecting and obsessing over Marvel Cards. I didn’t take formal lessons when I was young. I always loved and made art but actually only took high school art class in my junior year. After high school, I went to Sheridan Institute for a Foundation Art Course. That’s where I got introduced to the world of illustration. I got into illustration at Sheridan a year after and grew my craft from there.
Comparing the first piece you ever completed with the most recent one you created, how has your style changed? How have you evolved since you knew you were an artist?
As my interest and knowledge of things grow, so does the style of my art. Even if I look back at my graduating year works, there has been a definite difference from what I do right now (and that’s less than one year ago). My evolutions as an artist are all interrelated. From a Monet painting I tried copying as a child, to the Marvel cards I so loved, to now. There’s always a little something from them in the illustrations I create to this day.
What tool do you use the most when you create?
My pen and brush pen are my main tools for sketching, but for finishing, I usually use the good ol’ Wacom tablet and computer. I suppose my brain counts as well?
How often do you make an illustration? How long does it typically take you to complete a piece? When do you create your best work?
I work really fast, so I usually try to make an illustration every week or plan something out, even if I’m not working on a commission. It helps keep a rhythm and flow going. Time-wise, finishing an illustration depends on how long the timeline is. Newspapers have really tight deadlines so I can finish an illustration in less than a day. When I usually have a longer deadline, I take my time and sometimes it can take a couple days to finish. I usually create my best work when I’m having fun on what I’m working on. The deadline doesn’t matter as long as I’m enjoying it.
What are your major visual influences? How about those outside the visual arts?
My main artistic influences are great illustrators like Gerald Scarfe, Ralph Steadman, Charlie Harper, Joseph Clement Coll, and Gustave Dore; also illustrative poster art, like those French posters and propaganda posters. It’s the same with etchings and lithographs. Outside of visual art, I’m a big fan of all types of music. Depending what type of piece I’m working on, I’ll usually play something that fits the mood. It helps get me in the right mindset when I’m working on an illustration. Right now, though, all I can listen to is Phoenix!
Do you follow a certain quote/creed, line from a movie, song or something of the sort when you create your work?
“I know nothing except the fact of my ignorance” – Socrates.
I always believe that in this enormous world we don’t know everything, and because of that we should continue to experience, learn, and gain knowledge. I feel everything we learn and experience ultimately affects your art. The more we discover, the more tools we have to create.
What are some of the challenges you face as a young artist?
I think the main challenge is finding our own voice. Young artists must all remember to be honest with themselves.
How do you balance creativity and commerce?
It’s important to know how to find a balance between what you want and what an art director wants. You have to work together to find solutions to problems, and if you feel you have a great idea, never be afraid to show it. The key is to make sure what you are working on is something you’re happy with.
How do you know when a piece is ready or fit for exhibition/to be sold?
It’s the ability to look at the piece and realize if you’re pleased with it or not. I think it’s the same when doing an illustration for a client, or for yourself. Knowing when to stop and to not overwork a piece is a great thing to know as well. But it differs from person to person.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently still doing weekly illustrations for The Financial Post. A couple of classmates of mine are also setting up a gallery show that I’m part of in January. I’m also planning some promotions and a secret project!
How would you describe your illustration for Rogue? What inspired it?
I have always been a huge fan of black line work and shapes, so this was my next step in exploring what I can do with black. Color is a huge thing for me as well, I like using very organic bright and soft colors to help balance the hard edges I use.
