This week’s artist’s spotlight focuses on Lord Mesa, whose Arrow art will get you even more excited for the season 3 premiere.

The Artist’s Spotlight is a Hypable weekly feature that will focus on someone who has caught our attention for fandom-related art, whether it be drawings, songs, crafts, or more! Every week you can expect a new talented artist we think you should be aware of!

Hypable: Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Lord Mesa: I am a toy designer/freelance illustrator in Southern California. I graduated from the Academy of Art in San Francisco with a degree in Illustration. Moved down to SoCal in 2002 and have been drawing/designing/illustrating ever since.

What first interested you in art?

I have been interested in drawing ever since I was a little kid. I was always fascinated and mesmerized by cartoons and animation. I lived for Saturday morning and after school cartoons. Drawing became a natural extension of that love. Being able to draw the characters I enjoyed watching on TV became a skill I really took pride in. As I continued to draw, I started to see gradual improvements, which made me want to draw more.

What do you love so much about Arrow?

I think what initially drew me into the show were the many nods to the DCU…I am a big comic book fan, so I really appreciated all the references the show’s creators [alluded to] from the DC mythos. At the same time I really enjoy the little twists and turns they have taken with certain characters and their story arcs so that comic fans who are familiar with the characters are still surprised by the show.

Which has been your favorite Arrow character to draw?

Ollie in his gear has been a fun character to draw…I am digging Roy’s new suit for this next season and I hope Ollie gets an upgrade to his as well.

“Being able to draw the characters I enjoyed watching on TV became a skill I really took pride in.”

What are you most looking forward to in Arrow season 3?

The incorporation of Rhas Al Ghul looks like it’s going to be an interesting story to delve into…his connection to Ollie and Sarah…yes, I can’t wait!

I got to meet you briefly at San Diego Comic-Con and it was a madhouse! What are some of your favorite things about conventions?

My favorite part about having a table at conventions is the opportunity to meet people. Being an artist can be a very solitary thing sometimes. I like posting my work up on to Instagram, Tumblr, and Twitter to get feedback, but nothing beats actually talking to real people and sharing the same enthusiasm we have for shows and movies, etc.

What or who have been some of your influences, and can you tell us a little bit about your style?

As much as I am a fan of comic books and superheroes, I would say my artistic style is more influenced by animation. I like the simplicity of the linework of animation. The ability to communicate motion and action with gestural lines is a skill I’m constantly working on.

“Being an artist can be a very solitary thing sometimes. I like posting my work up on to Instagram, Tumblr, and Twitter to get feedback, but nothing beats actually talking to real people and sharing the same enthusiasm we have for shows and movies, etc.”

What are some other fandoms you like to draw for?

I enjoy anything superhero related whether it be movies, TV shows, or video games. I am a big fan of the Big Bang Theory, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Arrow, and Walking Dead. I’m looking forward to Gotham, Flash, Constantine, iZombie, and Daredevil coming this year.

What advice would you give to other artists?

I hear the question, “How do I get better?” many times on Instagram from various followers who are aspiring artists. My answer to that isn’t very complicated and super simple: Draw what you love and love what you draw. Time and practice are what help you improve as an artist. Talent is just part of the equation…You really have to be dedicated to growing and improving yourself.

What’s your ultimate goal as an artist?

My ultimate goal as an artist would be to continue to create my artwork and sharing it with people. I have a few ideas/characters that I would love to put out into the world whether it be via books or even a web comic. Keep an eye out because I plan to make this happen within the next year or two!!

“Draw what you love and love what you draw.”

Be sure to follow Lord Mesa on Instagram and Tumblr to check out all of his amazing art. You can also chat with him on Twitter! Go say hi!

Additionally, he has a website that will be launching soon. You can sign up for his mailing list right now while you wait!