In this edition of #CREATORTALK, we speak to Portsmouth-based illustrator Martin Bass (@nuclear_fish_bones on Instagram). #CREATORTALK is a series of articles and interviews, with a focus on the creative industries and the the talent working within them.
PW- Hey Martin! How’s it going?
It’s all good thank you!
PW- So, first thing’s first. For those who don’t know yet, how would you sum up who you are and what you do?
I’m a local illustrator, working mainly in digital and hand drawn styles.
PW- Your work has a very distinctive style. How would you describe it, and who/ what has influenced your style?
Thank you, it’s a style I have built up over the years. I take a lot of inspiration from cartoons and anime with themes of dystopia or surrealism. Superheros and comics have also been a huge influence on me and was what got me into drawing at a young age.
PW- You post a lot of work up to your social media pages. If you had to pick a favourite piece from your Instagram, what would it be?
One of my favourite pieces I have created would be the blue dinosaur mutant, I remember drawing it out thinking yeah this looks good and one thing I’ve always struggled with is committing to a colour pallet. With this piece I decided to just go for it and when I finished I took a step back and was really impressed with the image. I remember thinking, wow I’ve just done this!
PW- What plans do you have for the future?
Well, with the rush I had with the collaboration on the t-shirts, I will be looking at releasing loads more, a few badges, stickers etc. I’m also hoping to finish off one of the comics I’ve been working on for years. Fingers crossed!
PW- This blog focuses heavily on creativity and the real people behind the art. How does creativity affect you on a day to day basis? Do you get super inspired out and about, or is it more of a focused effort, where you can shut off from the world and just think?
I find that I tend to get inspiration usually out and about, or when I get a quiet moment to have a good think.
PW- In this kind of economy and industry, it can be tough to feel like you’re moving forwards sometimes. How do you battle these feelings when they come up, and do you have any advice to other people who might be struggling in a similar way?
I find i thrive in a relaxed environment, put some tunes on, chill out and try to get some work done. If not, don’t pressure yourself. When inspiration strikes you want to be prepared.
PW- And final question! It’s more of an invitation actually. Use the next few sentences to self-promote the hell out of what you’re up to, what we can watch/ listen to- no judgement!
Haha well keep an eye out on the t-shirts I’ve got planned if you’re into weird and colourful illustration, and wish me luck with the comic!!! Also if you get a chance check out my insta, I always appreciate any feedback.
PW- Thank you for your time!
You can find more of Martin’s work on his Instagram page. Our first t-shirt collaboration is also in partnership with Martin, and you can find the two launch t-shirts on the shop (link opens in separate website). Every purchase from the shop helps us support the artists we work with, both within collaborations and across the brand.
Image Credits- @nuclear_fish_bones
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