Drawn Together: Unedited Interviews
Niel Quisaba
Interviewed by Cliff Sawit
Can you tell me a little about yourself as an artist? Did you take formal lessons?
I am a freelance illustrator, lowbrow painter, and visual artist. Actually, I was selected as one of the 200 Best Illustrators in Luerzer’s Archive this year, I also did a children’s book illustration entitled Yellow Paperclip With Bright Purple Spots, published by Adarna Publication in 2005. It won the PBBY-Alcala Illustrator’s Prize. I was also commissioned by BBDO to do the illustrations of the Philippine advertisement for the Department of Philippines Tourism and their billboard. Most of my works were exhibited and sold abroad particularly in France, London, and the United States. I also accept commissioned works from different clients abroad via the Internet. I got my orders and commission works through my website, blog, and Twitter. Majority of my work deals with lowbrow illustrations. I graduated with a Certificate in Fine Arts - Visual Communications for three years and also Certificate in Fine Arts - Painting for one year in the University of the Philippine College, Baguio City. I also had some informal training in oil painting, oil pastels, charcoal, and watercolor every summer during my high school years. I also studied the works of famous illustrators like Hayao Miyazaki and others, with whom I draw some inspiration and motivation.
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?
I started working in realism arts and shifted to illustration two years after graduation. I was frustrated with my works in realism since it prevented me from expressing my ideals and personal style. Illustration enables me to explore and develop my own style and creativity. There is a noticeable improvement in my coloring style as well as a greater emphasis on texture and details in the characters and background. Maybe being naturally hardworking and my desire to be the best helps upgrade my skills through constant practice, retakes, and learning from my mistakes.
What tool do you use the most when you create?
I use graphite/pencil and acrylics, plus colored pencils.
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 make 2 to 10 illustrations per month. A piece usually takes around 1 to 7 days, depending on the theme, medium, size, color scheme, concept, and deadline (optional). Most of the time starting painting at around 1 P.M. until midnight.
What are your major visual influences? How about those outside the visual arts?
I am greatly inspired by the works of Hayao Miyazaki, Winsor McCay, Maurice Sendak, Mary Blair, Helen Hyde, and Edward Gorey. I am also influenced by my surroundings, nature, music, emotions, and faith in God.
Do you follow a certain quote/creed, line from a movie, song or something of the sort when you create your work?
Yes, I never stop following my favorite Gospel verse, Philippians 4:13: “I can do anything through Christ who strengthens me.”
What are some of the challenges you face as a young artist?
Maybe my greatest challenge was my hearing impairment, which hinders my learning abilities and communication, but eventually it was also one major factor that affected my works, since it helped develop my creativity, ideals, and eventually, my personal style. Aside from my physical handicap, I am also challenged by the demands and critiques of my clients.
How do you balance creativity and commerce?
I think it’s easy because if you got talent, creativity, and hardwork, commerce will come naturally.
How do you know when a piece is ready or fit for exhibition/to be sold?
Instinct. I also consult my family and, of course, the client. Copies of my work are sent to them for approval or any revisions.
What are you currently working on?
I am working on a new art commission for a new client, Dary. Soon, I’ll make new illustrations for the Image Comics contribution book project and perhaps my future solo show in Seattle, USA.
How would you describe your illustration for Rogue? What inspired it?
I did a self-portrait drawing for Rouge. It’s graphite on paper and it represents my artistic side. Some of my favorite characters are there, like “Babu” and “Abu,” as well as elements like fish (my favorite dish), cat mask, mosses, my freckles, the scar above my eyebrow, and wooden bracelets, which I’m very fond of.
