This week’s artist’s spotlight focuses on Tony Santiago, whose incredible art features your favorite comic book heroes, and more!
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.
Tony: Not much to tell. I was born and raised in Chicago. After a failed attempt at college, I joined the Air Force for four years. I came back home, got married (19 years now), started a family (three kids — 21, 17 and 9 — all amazing), finished my degree and here I am — doing what I wanted from the beginning (I just didn’t realize it back then).
What first interested you in art?
I was always interested in drawing. All of the kids at school liked to draw — I was just a little better than most. And, as we grew older, everyone found their interests to follow — I stuck with art.
Your art is so incredibly realistic, and that doesn’t come without a lot of practice. Can you tell us a bit about your routine and work ethic?
I’m not sure how to answer. Honestly, it’s just practice. I look at what other artists are doing with their paint strokes and use of color and light — and I try to apply some of that to my work in my own way.
My work ethic developed later in life. I was undisciplined when I was younger. I didn’t realize how far away I was from being good — not even close to being a professional. I had the wrong attitude. Everything changed after I got married and started the family. I grew up. I found that I had a lot of work to do if I was going to try to be a professional illustrator. And now, it’s just a part of my approach for every drawing — trying to improve on the one before.
Are there any pieces in particular that you remember really struggling with?
I struggle with all of my drawings. Anytime I have to capture a particular expression, it’s difficult for me. But I love the challenge — for me it’s the only way I’ll improve.
Do you have a favorite superhero?
I don’t have a true favorite — but I would say I’ve enjoyed Spider-Man the most.
Are there any upcoming superhero projects (movies or television) that you’re particularly excited about?
I get excited about all of them now. I just saw the Avengers 2 trailer and it looks amazing. I’m really interested in the Daredevil series Netflix is producing.
You also do a lot more than just fandom art! What got you into creating sports art?
I was doing sports art long before my current fan art. I love Chicago sports so every time I learned something new or just wanted to practice, I would work on a subject matter that I enjoyed — which is sports. I sold my work at a couple of Chicago Blackhawks fan conventions, which was a great experience. Over the next couple of years I found that fans responded better to my work at comic conventions — which has led me to where I am today.
| “I don’t have a true favorite — but I would say I’ve enjoyed Spider-Man the most.” |
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Which artists have inspired you the most?
My favorite artist is JC Leyendecker. I reference his style often when I’m being challenged on a drawing. After that, Drew Struzan is the artist I admire the most. And in the comic book world — Alex Ross, Jim Lee and Michael Turner are just a few of the artists whose work I find inspiring. All of them have different styles — but each one brings an energy to their work that I love.
What advice would you give to other artists?
I don’t feel qualified to give advice — since I’m still learning and growing also. But when somebody asks me for advice, I always tell them to make the time to work on their craft. Just keep working to get better. Make the next drawing better than the last. It takes practice. It sounds cliché but it’s true.
What’s your ultimate goal as an artist?
My ultimate goal is to just be good at what I do. I want the respect of artists whose work I admire also. And I want to be seen as a professional — someone who takes pride in his work and it shows.
Check out Tony’s website, where he has examples of his movie and TV art, plus comic book and sports art, too!
You can also follow him on Instagram and like his Facebook page to stay up to date on his latest pieces!
