I think I’ve mentioned a couple times that I’m a graphic designer, even though I don’t do it very often and I totally suck at drawing – true fact! I really like it. Therefore, every time I see an illustration, drawing or logo my creativity awakens.
For that simple reason, I decided to start this section where I plan to feature emerging illustrators and digital creators to feed my artsy appetite.
First in line is Steven Mari C. Cadiz a 24-year-old guy from Manila, Philippines who is a registered nurse but not a full time artist… yet, he says. Originally he wanted to take up a fashion design or another visually driven arts course, however, since nursing was in high demand when he finished high school he took that up instead.
“I never stopped drawing though. It’s my way of expressing myself and releasing my stress; something that came naturally to me like walking”, he adds.
Although drawing is more of a hobby rather than something he wants to do full time, his illustrations are sickening – Like mama RuPaul would say.
When I ran across his art on Instagram I was immediately fascinated by the color, pop culture references and of course, the gentlemen on display. So I shoot him an e-mail and he agreed to tell me more about his drawings and inspiration, here’s what he had to say…
What kind of technique do you use to create your art? Do you sketch by hand and then transfer that to the computer? Tell me a bit more about the process.
All my artworks are hand sketched. I use pencils for the rough sketching, outline them with tech pens, and color them with markers. When I’m done with the drawing, I just take a photo of it with my phone and post them on my Instagram or Tumblr account.
You have such a unique and colorful style, how could you describe it in a few words?
Crisp, bold, flamboyant, and personal (I do them mostly because they make me happy).
Now, could we talk about the handsome men in your portraits? How do you pick them or what’s the reason you decided to make an illustration of them?
Hahaha! Well, the men I draw are mostly people I follow on Instagram… I can draw both men and women, I (obviously) prefer drawing men. – Who wouldn’t? I am very fascinated with the male form. Drawing the people I follow and admire on social networks sometimes becomes a way for me to communicate with them.
I also see a lot of celebrities and drag queens in your work and I know you do take requests or commissions. Which celeb would you die for if they ask for one of your portraits?
I’d first like to say that drag queens really inspire me because they’re people who are very comfortable with their sexuality and they love taking risks! Concerning celebrities, I’ve had positive feedback from Daniel Garofali, Tim Bryan, and Cory D. Stewart after I drew them. Ultimately, I would die for a comment from Anderson Cooper or Angelina Jolie. I already did a Maleficent artwork and I am planning to post it as soon as the movie comes out! – You better back up; Anderson Cooper is mine. Just kidding!
Which artists do you admire the most and why?
There are a lot of artists who I admire and follow on Instagram like Alfredo Roagui–Made in Mexico by the way, Butch McLogic, and of course, Mr. Glen Hanson. I used to watch his cartoon series, Spy Groove, on MTV and I would try to imitate his drawings. I’m also fan of Patrick Fillion’s art. His work is something that inspires most of my drawings. He actually reblogged one of my illustrations on Tumblr… It was really amazing!
And with that, what would you like people to take away from your work and what do you think your art says about you?
I strive to create art that will motivate other artists. I want to inspire others by taking risks in my drawings. Maybe I can help young people to be braver than I was when I was their age.
A guilty pleasure…
Spending too much time surfing the Internet. It sometimes affects my work performance and sleep. – Oh buddy! I know all about that.
The song you can’t seem to quit listening on repeat?
“The Beginning” by RuPaul! It’s one of the most played songs on my playlist! It’s very upbeat and gay! – LOL dragtastic! The song inspires me to do my best like it’s the beginning of the rest of my life!
There you have it! Thank you Steven for my illustration I fucking love it! I’m honored to be among your models, especially because I admire a few of them as well like David Manson and Mr. Eric Rutherford.
Follow Steven Cadiz on Instagram @stevencadiz and visit his website http://stevencadiz.tumblr.com and watch out for merchandise with his art including shirts, iPhone and iPad cases, pillow cases, etc. – It’s going to be M-A-J-O-R.
Jorge Gallegos
Not just a pretty face
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