Tell us, Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Alan Vitek, I am a full time designer, and I love to make traditional artwork on the side.
Why do you do what you do?
Ever since I was young I knew I had some talent. It wasn't until after high school that I realized I could make art for a living, and it wasn't until after college that I realized I couldn't live off of just art, so I had to jump into the design world.
Tell us a little about your background?
I rely heavily on my traditional schooling and understanding of art and art history for my work. I feel that a lot of young designers today don't really know any of the "old-school" tools of the trade. Sure, I have a Mac and Photo-shop, but I start with my sketchbook and pencils first. I believe that having respect and an understanding of conservative methods produces timeless artwork.
Who are you most inspired by?
My favorite artist would have to be a fictional offspring of DaVinci, James Jean, Warhol, and Andrew Wyeth. DaVinci of course will always be considered the traditional master, James Jean is a contemporary artist who gives me loads of new ideas and approaches to my craft, Warhol had the best "business" mind without completely selling out (or rather, selling out in a sarcastic way), and Andrew Wyeth created some of the most emotional and broodingly atmospheric works I've ever seen.
What work do you most enjoying doing?
I really enjoy making little things, especially small prints, although because I've graduated, I no longer have access to a printing press :(
What themes do you pursue?
In high school I always had some sort of story to go along with a piece. I was taught back then to try to ignore that and work on my technical approach. In college, I had gained a strong technical approach, but by then had forgotten how to incorporate a theme into my work, so I had to spend time "unlearning" my more shallow, visual interest only techniques, and learn how to tell a story again.
Describe a real-life situation that inspired you?
My life is my inspiration. Every part of it.
But I suppose that if I had to give a specific event, it would of been my choice of love for another, over my love for art. I believe that even if I become a phenomenal artist, if I no one to share that passion with, then it means nothing. My wife will always be my greatest love.
What song/songs/music genres inspire you?
Oh boy, the music question. Hmm.
Well, I could be the predictable music snob and spit out a ton of super-obscure groups to try to establish my musical tastes, but that would just be boring. And lame.
Currently, my favorite "while working" bands are more light and minimalistic, much like my taste for art and design. The ambient/down-tempo/brain-dance genre is my favorite. Groups like Boards of Canada, Aphex Twin, Sigur Ros, Loess, etc etc. I prefer songs with either no lyrics, or lyrics in a different language so I'm more focused on enjoying the mood of the song, rather than just lyrics.
What do you dislike about your work?
I hate that it takes me so long to work on a piece I like. I continually do it, and re do it, and by that time, I know it's going to be one of those "forever pieces." Typically, my best works have been the ones I was less interested in at the beginning, and then they magically developed into refined, effective pieces without much effort. I love those moments.
What do you like about your work?
I like that overall, I intend for my pieces to be conversation worthy, but I hate being part of the conversation.
Name something you love, and why.
Other than my wife & family, I truly love very few things. I feel that love is an overused and now underrated word. But I Like-Like almost everything. Haha.
What is your dream project?
To refinish a derelict warehouse and turn it into a studio.
Favorite or most inspirational place?
A blank piece of paper.
What's the best piece of advice you've been given?
Whoa boy. Hmm. There are a couple that I believe are invaluable.
1 - "Art is a jealous mistress."
2 - "Less is more"
3 - "The beauty is in the details"
Professionally, what's your goal?
Haha, this might be totally lame, but I want a decent wikipedia article about myself and my work. Oh wow.
You can see more of Alan Vitek HERE, or ADD HIM on Facebook, and you may buy his art in his Etsy Store: Alan Vitek- Original Art for Original People.
XOXOXO- Trashy Betty
-Special Thanks to Alan Vitek for sharing with us -
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