Swedish illustrator Mattias Adolfsson has kindly allowed us to showcase some of his impressive work from a series called ‘architecture’. Adolfsson’s unique style is largely imaginative (although he also does traditional works) and he has the ability to stir up memories and emotions like something straight out of a childhood dream. His sketches explore the bizarre and dreamlike in a beautiful and intricate cartoonish way, infused with care and precision. Adolfsson can also boast of having one of the most popular sketch blogs on the net and has traveled the world with his work – his latest exhibition of him in the center of Melbourne!
Thank you for accepting this interview Mattias, could you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Mattias Adolfsson, I am a 43-year-old illustrator who lives in a town called Sigtuna, outside of Stockholm, Sweden. I moved here a year ago after living in Gothenburg for 18 years.
At what age did you start illustrating? And when did it become a profession?
I’ve been illustrating almost all my life, but I didn’t take it up as a profession until last year (at the same time I left Gothenburg). I’ve been working with computer games and 3D animation since I did my masters in fine design.
What people (artists or not), places or things inspire you?
There are a lot of wonderful artists out there, but I tend to try not to get too inspired by other artists (it takes some of the joy out of watching them). I get a lot of inspiration while moving, walking or running, while reading or listening to music.
Are you professionally trained or were you self-taught?
I specialized in graphic design, in that education there was some tutoring in Illustration but not much. Most of my drawing skills are self-taught, which also applies to my 3D animation skills.
What are your most used ‘tools of the trade’ (ie markers, pens, etc.)
I draw with a fountain pen (a namiki Falcon) and use watercolors for colouring. To be honest, this is what I always use.
What are you working on right now?
I just started a course on creating comics, I have to start doing a lot more print. Other than that, I’m working on some children’s book projects and some independent commission stuff.
I am particularly interested in your ‘architecture’ pieces, what inspired them?
Before studying Graphic Design I went to an Architecture school (for two years). I always liked classical buildings and have been drawing them since I started studying.
What are your other interests besides art?
I am very interested in science, technology and history as part of music and film.
What are the best and worst parts of being a full-time working artist?
The worst of course is the insecurity and uneven cash flow at times. The best thing is freedom, the ability to direct your own time.
Any advice for emerging artists?
Make the most of your time in art school and take every chance you can to spend some of it abroad (if possible). I often feel like I didn’t make the most of my study time.
Thank you Mattias for taking the time to answer our questions. He is greatly appreciated and an inspiration to all of us!
Visit Mattias’ site here: [http://www.mattiasadolfsson.se/moi.html]
and also his blog here: http://mattiasa.blogspot.com/
To view the original article with images, visit http://designtavern.com/2008/11/11/mattias-adolfsson-illustrator/