Derek Ring
blogspot: http://derekring.blogspot.com
deviantart: http://abnormalbrain.deviantart.com
images copyright Derek Ring
1.... what medium and tools do you use to create art?
I've been using pencils and computers for my pro work, but I'm currently going back to brushes for my personal work. Most of the stuff you'd see from me is made with Adobe Illustrator, little bit of Photoshop for some color corrections afterward.
2.... can you describe your creative process when making art?
Start with some loud music, add some thumbnail-y pencil sketches, keep sketching till I think it's right, then scan it, adjust the last few pieces I don't like. Often then I'll print it again and go over that with pencil, tightening up the sketch, then I'll scan it, drop it into Illustrator and start inking it, then add some colors in a below layer, some highlights in an above layer…rinse and repeat until done!
3.... what helps boost your creativity?
Coffee, whiskey and music. Depends on my mood, but some of the wildest pieces have been created while listening to like Simon and Garfunkel, while some of my quietest, cleanest designs have been created while blasting Wolfmother or Deep Purple. Sleep is good too, I get some of my best ideas in that space between sleeping and waking.
4.... what helps you maintain focus and motivation when creating?
Deadlines! Also, I'm a multitasker. I have to have multiple things going on at once, or I get bored. It's a really weird thing, I know.
5.... what is the secret to creating a great piece of art?
Relaxing and letting it happen. Also, making a piece that every once in a while you can stand back and admire even when it's in early stages. It's a bit like inspiring yourself. And if that isn't happening, I'm not afraid to start over and try again.
6.... do you feel its important to follow your passion in your career?
Sure, but make sure the passion is your own and not someone else's.
7.... how do you find your passion?
I read, I dig around on the internet, I play video games, I go to flea markets and comedy shows and lectures and bizarro art exhibits, and when I find something that interests me I wikipedia/research the shit out of it.
8.... who are your favorite artists?
Right now I'm really into Glenn Bar and Ruprecht von Kaufman, but I have loads of influences, Jack Kirby, Milo Manara, Bill Sienkiewicz, Rick Leonardi, Stanley Kubrick, Art Adams, Robert McGinnis, Adam Hughes, Mike Mignola! I could sit here and list forever, and still miss some important ones.
9.... do you offer workshops for artists?
Not right now, but I could see doing something like that in the future.
10.... if you could give other artists one piece of advice what would it be?
Make time every day to work at your craft. Work in a medium that you love so much that you enjoy looking at the surface even when it's not finished.
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