WHERE DID YOU GO TO SCHOOL?

I graduated Sheridan College with a bachelor’s degree in Animation.

WHAT DO YOU USE FOR YOUR DIGITAL PIECES?

My artistic process primarily involves using digital tools such as Adobe Photoshop and my trusted Wacom Cintiq 27 QHD (I named him Samson). This powerful combination allows me to create highly detailed, vivid illustrations that capture the essence of my inspirations. For more casual sketching and painting, I also incorporate Procreate on the iPad Pro with an Apple Pencil. To provide further insights into my creative process and the advantages of each tool, I have created an in-depth comparison on my Patreon titled "Photoshop vs Procreate and Cintiq vs iPad." I invite you to explore this content for a deeper understanding of my techniques and tools.

WHAT MATERIALS DO YOU USE FOR YOUR TRADITIONAL PIECES?

Watercolour: Holbein colours on 500 series Strathmore watercolor paper

Gouache: Holbein gouache on 500 series Strathmore watercolor paper

Oil: Gamblin oil colors & Trekkel brushes

HOW DID YOU FIND YOUR STYLE?

Discovering my artistic style was a significant challenge that I can empathize with, as it can be a source of frustration and even desperation for many artists. While I understand the importance of developing a unique style, I believe it's important to remember that as we grow and evolve, so too will our artistic taste and style. Rather than fixating on perfecting a particular style, I encourage artists to focus on continuously improving their skills and techniques. I recently wrote a journal post on this topic, which explores the idea of finding one's artistic style in more depth. You can read it here: Finding my style

HOW DID YOU BECOME A INDEPENDENT ILLUSTRATOR?

Prior to embarking on my journey as a freelance illustrator, I worked as a concept artist at a small boutique studio in Toronto. Over time, I realized that the traditional 9-5 work schedule was not conducive to my creative aspirations. I yearned to create art on my own terms and for my own purposes. As a self-proclaimed control freak, I knew that the most fulfilling path for me was to become an independent illustrator and essentially become my own boss. In 2017, I made the bold decision to leave my job and fully devote myself to improving my craft. Through hard work and unwavering dedication, I am now living my dream as an independent illustrator and have never looked back. If you are interested in learning more about my journey, I invite you to read about it in more detail here.

ARE YOU AVAILABLE FOR COMMISSIONS?

Yes, I’m always eager to take on new projects. While I’m selective of the themes and subjects I want to paint, I would be delighted to hear more about your concept and ideas. Please feel free to contact me via email: hello@janicesung.com

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR YOU TO FINISH AN ILLUSTRATION?

It really depends on the piece but I usually spend anywhere from 3 - 9 hours on a digital painting and 1 - 2 weeks on a traditional piece.

WHAT DIGITAL BRUSHES DO YOU USE?

I use a combination of my own brushes as well as some I’ve collected over the years. I don’t currently have a set of brushes I religiously use because I tend to change my brushes every now and then to bring something new to my pieces. However, I always keep the default Photoshop brushes in my folder.

WHO INSPIRES YOU?

I draw inspiration from a diverse range of sources and admire those who have truly mastered their craft, whether it's in the realm of painting or architecture. As for my current aesthetic, I look to the classics for guidance and am especially inspired by artists like Gustav Klimt and John Singer Sargent. The rich, detailed works of the Baroque era also hold a special place in my heart and continue to influence my art to this day.

HOW DO YOU GET OVER
ART BLOCK?

If you're experiencing a creative block or feeling uninspired, don't worry, it happens to the best of us. My advice is to take a step back and explore new things. Try something different, go for a walk, visit a new place, or browse through social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to gather inspiration. As you browse, take note of the things that catch your eye, whether it's a particular color, texture, or composition. Keep an open mind and allow yourself to be curious and experimental, and you might just find that spark of inspiration you were looking for. In essence, I implore aspiring creatives to remain open-minded and explore their artistic horizons as a means of bypassing creative blocks, as it's an inevitable component of the artistic journey and should be embraced as an opportunity for growth.

DO YOU MAKE MONEY OFF YOUR ART?

We are fortunate to live in a digital age where artists can gain recognition without relying solely on traditional channels such as prestigious galleries or commissioned murals. Through a robust online presence, one can showcase their work to a global audience. Personally, I have been able to support my livelihood through a combination of client work and online print sales. Social media platforms, such as Instagram, have proven to be invaluable tools for generating new leads and cultivating a dedicated following. My advice to aspiring artists is to embrace the power of the internet and utilize it to your advantage. With diligence and creativity, the possibilities are endless.

ADVICE FOR BEGINNER ARTISTS?

My advice would be to approach this journey with patience, perseverance, and a deep appreciation for the process. Pursuing a career in the creative arts can be a challenging path, but it is one that offers immense personal and professional growth. Continuously educating oneself, working tirelessly to improve skills, embracing failures and setbacks, and striving towards one's own unique journey are all key tenets to success. Remember, the pursuit of mastery is a lifelong journey, and it requires a deep commitment to growth and development. At the end of the day, we only have one life to live, and it is up to us to seize each moment and make the most of it.