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Justin Remalante, an artist from Bacoor, Cavite, makes digital portraits. He used to be a logo designer, but now earns a living as a full-time digital artist.
What is art for you?
Art is a form of communication, the expression of feelings and thoughts.
Why did you choose to become an artist?
I enjoy it so much. It runs in the family. When I was a kid, I really liked to draw cars, make comics. I didn’t know then na magiging artist ako one day. But when I started doing vector art, naisip ko na that’s my forte. My skill is in that kind of art.
Who inspired you to be an artist?
My dad. And I used to watch animated movies. I thought, “Okay, I want to be an animator someday!” But things changed. I focused on being a graphic artist after college.
How would you describe your art?
I really don’t know how to describe my style in one word… I thought, why not make my own style and give it a try? I tried to make this warped style on my artworks and added some quotes [as captions] that would fit in the art itself.
What is your favorite medium?
Digital, of course!
What is your favorite subject?
I love making digital portraits of women. Plus I believe that “every woman is a piece of art.”
Do you ever suffer from “artist’s block”?
Many times! It’s very frustrating especially if you’re doing a commissioned work. I break it by searching for cool digital portraits to inspire me.
Can you give us some art tips and tricks?
I always say, start with a Coke bottle if you want to learn basic vector art. Kasi may curves yun, you can learn how to use the pen tool in Adobe Illustrator. When you’re comfortable, you can try other objects, too, and maybe start doing simple vector portraits.
What has been your biggest challenge so far?
For me, it’s promoting my art. When I decided to start with commissioned work, I thought baka hindi siya bumenta because hindi naman ako kilala. My friends on Twitter have been very supportive.
What has been your biggest achievement?
My art getting featured in an online community.
What is your advice to aspiring artists?
Always believe in yourself. Eventually you’ll find your own style. Keep on searching for inspiration, but please, don’t try to steal others’ styles. Always be supportive of other artists, too, don’t bring them down. And always remember, if you are good at something, never do it for free.
Follow Justin on Instagram @jstn9something and Deviantart: fallouthero.deviantart.com
