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| Working hard, as always. |
How do I pronounce your name? Where are you from?
My name is pronounced Asia, like the continent. I was named after a Steely Dan album, thanks to my hippie parents, back in 1985, which means as of this posting I'm 26. I'm Hawaiian, was born in Kealakekua, Kona, and raised in Northern California. Right now I live in Portland, Oregon.
Did you go to art school?
Yes and No. For many years, I was convinced that I wanted to be a wildlife biologist or a veterinarian, so I decided to go to a science school for my undergraduate degree, at Humboldt State University. I quickly realized that math was not my forte, so instead I majored in Graphic Design and minored in Art History. I studied Graphic Design because there was no illustration or animation program at my college, which is what I really wanted to do. After working for two years as a designer for a wholesale jewelry company, designing boxes and cards for companies like Walmart, Nordstrom, JCPenney, etc, I started to grow tired of the industry. On October 21st, 2009, my mentor and father figure M. Wayne Knight passed away unexpectedly and I was asked to take over the graphic design courses at HSU. Once I finished my adjunct position, I decided life is too short, I wanted to do illustration, so I quit my job and started attending University of Hartford's Master of Fine Arts in Illustration program. I am currently enrolled in the program and will graduate in July, 2012.
How long have you been drawing for and who are your influences?
I've been drawing since about age 5. My mother read me Beatrix Potter stories, and I fell in love with the idea of talking animals. I have always found it to be such an appealing concept, that I've based my career on drawing friendly chatting creatures. My greatest influences are Beatrix Potter, Racey Helps, Felix Lorioux, and E.H. Shepard. Today I closely follow the careers of Peter de Seve, Noah Klocek, and Nico Marlet.
What can I do to become a professional illustrator?
Draw constantly. Study animals and people from life and photographs. Take classes, devour books on the subject, join groups like Society of Illustrators, Graphic Artist Guild, Society of Childrens Books Writers and Illustrators, etc. Join critique groups and learn to accept criticism. Don't make your drawings sacred, throw stuff away. If you are really developing your talent, everything should just keep getting better and better. I try (and honestly, do not always do this) to sketch at least 1-2 pages per day, in addition to client work, just to stay on top of things.
Also, be SINCERE about your work. Your work will be better if you are passionate about it, and you will be happier too. If you are new, and need to start developing a client list, consider doing low paid work for legitimate non-profit organizations that you care about, like a local animal shelter or charity. With the exception of this however, never work for free. Always value your worth as an illustrator.
Don't be discouraged if it takes a while. When I was first starting, I was working 40-50 hours a week full time, and then working an additional 20 hours a week at home to kickstart my career. It's tough, but a fun challenge. I am still learning new things every day.
I have an idea for a book/app/product, will you illustrate it for me?
At this time I only work with major publishers and companies. I strongly suggest that if you have an idea for a picturebook or similar project, that you join the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, www.scbwi.org, and learn what it takes to develop your story.
What do you do when you aren't drawing?
When I'm not busy drawing, I spend a lot of time walking about town hunting for Chai Latte's (my biggest vice!) hanging out with my two little dogs, and reading. I also enjoy participating in animal rehabilitation, and actually specialize in raising young opossums. I also try to travel when I can, (don't we all?) and hope to see all 50 states by the time I'm 30. I'm a little over half way there.
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| My first opossum, Maisy. She was re-released into the wild. |
In addition to various magazines, nature brochures and early development for some animation projects, I currently have two books out. They are both available at most bookstores, but can most easily be found on amazon.
That's Not Your Mommy Anymore - This book is for older audiences- it's presented in a picturebook style but is fairly graphic, recommended for the zombie enthusiast! Ulysses, 2011
Children's Stories by Artie Knapp - This is a children's anthology originally published by Detroit Free Press/Yak's Corner, great for children ages 3-10. Mightybook, 2011
