When it comes to graphic design and digital illustrations, budding artist Asad Farook has made a name for himself in such a short period of time. The spot light falls on Asad on our Arts Page today as we feature some of his new and most liked illustrations. Here’s a peak at his life as an artist…

ABOUT ASAD:

Hello. My name is Asad Farook and I'm a graphic design student and freelance illustrator.
I study at Academy of Design, Colombo and there is nothing I love more than drawing. I draw mostly “fan-art” as part of my learning and try to apply what I learn to my own works.

I've been drawing since I was a little kid. I remember drawing on test papers and text books and school material. It was just non-stop. It was only until 2012 did I really get in to digital art after my friends kept encouraging me to color my sketches. And at the time it was so overwhelming with all the options that the software had to offer. But one day I decided to give it a try and eventually taught myself. I spent a lot (seriously, a lot) of time drawing and practicing and it was just so satisfying to see the improvements with each drawing.

I currently work part time at Colombo Design Studio, Wellawatte. You can contact me regarding freelance work on either [email protected] / [email protected].

As of now, I do not have any publications, although there are plans for many in the future.

You can see my work at
www.asadfarook.com
www.facebook.com/asadfarookart

QUESTIONS

1. Enlighten us with your inseparable relationship with anime/manga and why you love drawing them?

Well I have to admit that my love for Japanese anime/manga has faded. It will however be the reason I wanted to draw "better". It was truly inspirational to see their style and work. I remember when I first saw a couple of images of an anime, and I though "wow, their eyes are so detailed. I want to draw eyes like that!"  Eventually my friend introduced me to a couple of series and that got me started. However recently have been practicing newer methods and I have noticed it sort of drifting away from the whole manga style but yeah, I will always look back at it.

2. What is most challenging to draw and why?

For me, the most challenging thing to draw is whole act of drawing itself. It's always a struggle to get better. You see think of an interesting idea or story and you want to draw it, and you do, but it doesn't always turn out right. Then you struggle and work on it and eventually you get what you wanted.

3. How do you plan to take your art to the next level?

By improving further and slowly branching out of comfort zone. Learn new techniques and try out new things, subjects, themes and such. For example, right now I’m drawing more local culture based artwork, something I don’t do often.

4. Most of us find it easier to work while listening to our music. Assuming you do the same, what kind of music do you listen to when you draw?

I always listen to music when I draw, all the time. Sometimes the music affects what I tend to draw. Indie / Indie pop / Alternative music is my favourite genre.

5. Can you draw us something real quick to say what's on your mind right now?

Sure!

6. A message or a piece of advice you would like to share with your fans and upcoming artists?

To all my friends and to everyone who supports and encourages me, I can't thank you enough. If I were to give any advice related to drawing, learn the fundamentals and draw all the time.  You will see massive amounts of improvement over time. I would also recommend carrying a small notebook to doodle whenever it is possible.  Anyone who wants to start off with digital art, I’d suggest investing in a graphic tablet; it will speed up the learning curve by a lot! Keep drawing!"

By Hasna Saleem