Conversations with Hunter Martin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hunter Martin.

Hi Hunter, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I attended Academy of Art University for a BFA in Visual Development for Animation. While there I learned how to hone my skills for the animation industry and built a portfolio. I had often thought about making merchandise through the skills I accumulated, but wasn’t sure how to apply them. They felt like different worlds to an extent. I had the fundamentals to create appealing art, but it was geared towards a pipeline not a brand. That’s something I’m still honestly finding my footing on. When I moved out to LA I began tabling at events selling screen printed apparel and other products. It became extraordinarily fulfilling to put tangible goods into peoples hands. So much of my art is digital and to me it loses this grounding element. Seeing people wear my shirts or hang up posters I’ve designed has been so gratifying.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road hasn’t been smooth in the slightest! Art in and of itself is paved by mistake after mistake. The struggles comes from having to create things that appeal to potential customers. I went to school to learn how to paint and draw cartoons so having to sell goods wasn’t something I was taught. You have to garner genuineness because people can tell when merchandise comes from a superficial place. There’s times when screen printing a shirt goes wrong, or a print you’ve made doesn’t look at all like you’d think. These are things you have to consider when you make a product.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Visual Development Artist and Background Painter for animation. This is all part of the pre-production process, and frankly Visual Development is a broad umbrella term. I’ve created concept work and backgrounds for 2D short films, music videos, film pitches, video games, and more. I think I’m most proud of the work I’ve done in the Indie Animation scene and tabling events. What sets me apart from others is my versatility and ability to wear many hats. I can work in animation and I also get to screen print shirts on my balcony that people will wear. I’m pretty stoked about that.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I think thoughtfulness and being stubborn has brought me the most success. Thoughtfulness grounds you and helps you build intention with your art. Stubbornness helps you deal with rejection and pushing through creative hurdles.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.huntermartinart.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/huntermartinart/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunter-e-martin/
• Twitter: https://x.com/huntermartinart
• Other: https://huntermart.bigcartel.com/