JASON LEVESQUE (Stuntkid) INTERVIEW
An interview by H.R.U.
FROM THE BIO: Raised in the backwoods of Florida, Jason Levesque carried a zero average in his graphic communications classes. He has no formal art training, and he learned by deconstructing websites and doing Photoshop tutorials online. Jason's unique style has graced the covers of several magazines, HOW Magazine's Top 10 Websites, and several additional top honors. He now lives in Norfolk, Virginia with his fiance Elizabeth Henry (lizzelizzel.com).
HAMPTON ROADS UNDERGROUND: Describe your work in 3 words or less.
STUNTKID: Girls Are Pretty.
HRU: How do you start a piece of work?
SK: I often start with a photo reference.
HRU: Do you have a preference of subject?
SK: Obviously I draw girls more than anything else. And that I do
because they are so pretty.
HRU: What piece are you particularly proud of and why?
SK: This is a hard question to answer. I suppose my lasted piece that
I'm really proud of would be the Cephalohottie.
HRU: Can you describe how you created that piece?
SK: It started as a sketch in my sketchbook, scanned and colored in Photoshop. I plan to do a 6 color screenprint of her in the future using pearlescent inks.
HRU: What is the latest thing you've been working on?
SK: I'm working on an illustration for Playstation Magazine. Something for a
two-page spread looking at "things to come." Not sure when it'll be out. They should send me a complimentary PS2 so i can research the product.
HRU: What do you think of art school?
SK: I think art school is a great place to learn tools. But, being self taught, I know that your future in art doesn't depend on it. I think for some people art school is crucial and for others it's unnecessary.
HRU: What advice would you give someone who's getting serious about a career in art?
SK: Try to remain optimistic. Remain flexible and don't settle too early into a style that isn't evolved. Look outside yourself for inspiration and don't judge your success by looking at the success of other artists. Stay humble, your personal interactions with other people can easily make or break your future in art.
HRU: How long have you lived in Hampton Roads?
SK: 20 years.
HRU: Where do you go in Hampton Roads to get inspired?
SK: Online, haha.
HRU: How important is community support for the arts?
SK: I think it's hugely important. I'm excited to see groups like HRunderground, prettytasty.org and drsketchys.
HRU: What is Hampton Roads doing that's right for the arts?
SK: Recently Ghent has started to host a First Friday. If you aren't familiar with this event look into it!
HRU: Do feel like you are part of a creative community, or do you feel like you're an artist alone on an island?
SK: I've felt like an artist alone on an island for sometime. Recently though I've been meeting other artists in the area online and it's felt good to be able to collaborate and work out ideas with other creatives.
HRU: What event in the area do you get most exited about?
SK: At the moment, First Fridays in Ghent.
HRU: One of the objectives of hrunderground.com is to help talented local artists gain recognition. Name one Hampton Roads underground artist who you believe deserves a push.
SK: Of course I'm going to have to plug my fiance (lizzelizzel.com).
Her work is definitely worth checking out.
HRU: Any other interests besides art?
SK: Kayaking, Rock climbing.
HRU: Name 2 websites you visit daily.
SK: Oh, this is embarrassing... MySpace and LiveJournal.
HRU: What is the last song you listened to?
SK: Something by the Gorillaz, I'm quite sure.
HRU: Name 3 art tools you can't live without.
SK: Wacom tablet, digital camera, Photoshop.
HRU: Name 3 things in general you can't live without.
SK: My fiance, my kids, my sketchbook.
HRU: Anything you want to plug?
SK: Dr. Sketchy's! Everyone interested in bettering their artwork should
come out ( info at http://www.stuntkid.com/drsketchys ).
Contact Stuntkid
e-mail jason@stuntkid.com :: web stuntkid.com
comment on this article :: view artist's profile :: return to top of page