Interview with Victor Devlin - Illustrator - Charlotte, NC
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My name is Victor Devlin. I am an illustrator and visual artist working and living in North Carolina. I am self-taught and am interested in investigating and revealing observational, personal, and ambiguous images that are developed through mixed media.
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Tell me about your work
I am an illustrator using mixed media to produce original artwork, small press publications, prints, and comics. I use the term illustrator loosely because I am self-taught.
What are you currently working on?
For the last six months I have been working on an ongoing series called ‘One Week’. It is made up of large abstract images using mostly ink (and some graphite) on bristol board. I am also working on comics and other projects.
How is it different from past projects?
Last year I released an art zine and spent most of my time working on comics that never came out. In the past few months I have had the opportunity to show some work that I have made publicly for the first time which is different than drawing in my sketch book.
Tell us about your background, how did you discover your knack for Illustration?
I have been making comics, zines, and flyers with friends sporadically since I was a kid. I haven’t been completely focused on it until recently. It still feels very new to me.
What are your influences?
There is an endless amount of talented people and way too many for me to name them all. I really love the output of Nobrow, Youth in Decline, Koyoma Press, Study Group, and Icinori. Illustrators like Farel Dalrymple, Jillian Tamaki, Michael Deforge, Amanda Vahamaki, Thomas Herpich, Sam Vanallemeersch, Sammy Harkham, & Jordan Crane are always making unique stuff. There are authors, movies, and albums that influence what I do, too.
Are there any particular subjects you’re exploring in your work?
I think there is a visual similarity in most of my work. Everything that I have made can exist together or apart. There are themes and ideas associated with the “One Week” series and other projects but nothing that I feel is needing an explanation. I like to draw things that I have a personal connection with for the most part.
What was the best advice given to you as an artist?
I have learned more from listening to people discuss their approach and attitudes about their own art than anything. Any feedback that I’ve received I have definitely considered and thought about.
Is there anything you are trying to communicate through your work?
Doing the work incessantly and having fun while doing it is my only immediate priority.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time when you’re not making art?
I try not to feel guilty about the time that I spend not making it and balance all of the other important aspects in my life. I like to read books. I like stupid shows about food.
What is your goal for your work in the near future?
I will have original art available for sale some way or another. Maybe I will get some comics or stories out this year. I am interested in making more prints. I am interested in writing more. I have a lot of ideas that I’m still feeling out so you can get updates at http://cargocollective.com/victordevlin if you want.
What are your overall goals as an artist?
I want to pursue the ideas that I find interesting and see how it goes.