Twon Smith - Painter

Twon is a visual artist with an educational background in Fine Arts, specifically Painting and Printmaking, however over the last few years hisinterest has moved to Digital Media. He has always liked loose and expressive work and finds the speed and freedom of today's software very attractive. His influences from childhood include video games, action movies, and all kinds of concept art.

Contact Info:

Instagram: tscombo
Email: tdouble_u@hotmail.com

How does your personal story/background influence your work?

I started drawing in Elementary school. I guess I was around 5 or 6 years old. A few friends and my older brother were my original influences but later video games really pushed my imagination. I am naturally an introverted person so I tried to express myself in the process of drawing. It also was a good mental escape when things got stressful.

Which of your works are you most proud of?

One of the pieces I am most proud of is a portrait of a friend I did for her Birthday. It was created digitally then printed on canvas. Everything came together properly and it has sentimental value. Of the current works, I went back to painting traditionally with chalk paint. I have never been good at painting so all of them are experiments that I consider to be successful attempts at finding a technique.

What is the hardest part about being a professional artist?

Being an artist can be frustrating internally and externally. The creative grind to express yourself properly in the internal struggle and the external struggle consist of client expectations and trying to monetize your craft.

Who are other artists that inspire you?

I get inspired by the work of Concept Artist. A few of my favorites are, Yoji Shingawa, Dan Milligan (www.danmilligan.com), and Jama Jurabaev (http://jamajurabaev.deviantart.com).