Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Chavez.
Hi Andrew, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I grew up surrounded by creative people (artists, musicians, craftspeople, etc.) so it was almost inevitable that I would do something similar. Like most of us, I started out in retail while going through school but I knew I would eventually find myself involved with an interesting creative outlet. After college, I spent some time in the fields of product design and architecture while keeping my art and graphic design career consistent with freelance projects. Eventually, I decided to take a leap of faith and jump into graphic design design full-time and it has proven to be one of the best decisions I could have made. Every day is a creative experience and I am always finding ways to stay inspired and improve my own output.
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?
Definitely not! Finances, doubts, insecurities, lateral moves and steps back were very common. There were many times where you wonder if what you’re doing is worth it or if you should change course again. However, my passion never wavered and I always found myself back at my sketchbook at the end of the day. Trying to push myself to come up with something new. I also tend to be of the mindset that if something is worth it, there’s bound to be some difficult times. Smooth seas don’t make good sailors!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a graphic designer and artist via both digital and traditional mediums.
In my graphic designs, I lean heavily into vintage, grungy, or dirty aspects to portray a concept. I try to design images that are evocative with a back story and a physical element to them. My designs are usually layered with rips, tears, textures, cracks, scratches, distress, etc. Ideally, I would like someone to feel like you can reach out and take it apart, piece by piece.
For my illustrated works, I try to incorporate ideas that have great contrast. Whether it be interesting color choices, depictions of the subject, or even a comedic aspect. I am an unashamed lover of horror films, so my art tends to stay in the horror-related realm (skeletons, ghosts, zombies, etc.). Comedic elements are a major part of the genre. My love of horror films and comedy easily goes hand in hand with my art. Alongside the contrasting elements, I love trying to find that niche group or an off-beat element that I can reference. And getting a positive reaction from those who can appreciate it. Because of this, I’ve been very fortunate that my works have been noticed by certain audiences or even the people that have influenced me to create them.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I have found the good old-fashioned email has worked out for me for many occasions! There isn’t really a secret code or best-selling author that will give you much more than that. All connections start with actually reaching out to someone in the first place.
With art, there’s a great potential of being a powerful or evocative ice-breaker between two people. You can get projects based off of other projects that were based off of other-other projects. You put enough out there, you’re able to reach out to others and say, “Look at what I did here, don’t you want the same feeling?” and all you have to do is put some personal flair on that. Eventually, it will snowball.
That is not to say that there isn’t work involved. You should never let your consistent work or praise to be what feeds your ego and makes you think you’re untouchable. You can be the best in the business and if you have an ego or a bad attitude, you will be passed up for the next person. Talent or an extensive skillset will mean nothing in those moments and it comes as a shock to those people every day. It’s about keeping the bridges of communication open, being eager, enthusiastic, and staying inspired. The people you want to work with will gravitate to you as long as you put your side of the work in. But it starts with an email! Reach out to someone you admire and tell them you want to collaborate or ask for advice! What’s the worst that could happen? They say no? Great! It won’t matter because we’re staying inspired, enthusiastic and we’re moving on.
Contact Info:
- Website: andrewchavezart.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/andrewchavezart
- Other: linktr.ee/andrewchavezart
