EJ Negre
Capturing the Beauty of Pop-Culture through Art
Please share your experience being an artist in the UK. What's it like, professionally?
Being an artist in the UK has been an enriching experience. The creative energy and diverse art scene in places like London have been incredibly inspiring. It's a melting pot of cultures and ideas, and I've had the opportunity to collaborate with talented artists and media companies here, which has opened up new possibilities for my work.
What makes pop culture, beauty, and vibrant music videos strong influences on your work?
Pop culture, beauty, and vibrant music videos have this magnetic quality that draws me in. They are full of life, colors, and emotions, and I find immense creative fuel in them. They reflect the zeitgeist, and I love incorporating elements of these influences into my art, creating pieces that resonate with contemporary audiences.
What got you into visual arts and what's been your journey since then – education, work, achievements, etc?
Visual arts have been a part of my life since I can remember. It all started with doodling and sketching as a kid. I pursued my passion through formal education in visual arts and photography. Over the years, I've embarked on various projects, from photography commissions to animation and illustration work. I feel fortunate to have had my work featured in esteemed platforms like Zee Lifestyle Magazine, King's Cross Library, Smile Inflight Magazine, and many others. It's been an exciting journey, and I'm constantly evolving as an artist.
Pop culture, beauty, and music videos are my muses, infusing life into my creations and guiding my artistic journey.
What kind of collaborations do you do and what do you look for in them?
Collaborations are an incredible way to explore new dimensions in my art. I work with media companies, fellow artists, and clients on various projects, from conceptualizing visuals for their campaigns to creating illustrations for different platforms. I look for collaborations that challenge me creatively and offer a chance to tell captivating stories through my art.
Please briefly tell us about a project you cherish, highlighting its brief, process, and result.
One project that holds a special place in my heart was when I collaborated with a media company on an animated short film. The brief was to bring to life a heartfelt story of resilience and hope. It involved creating characters, designing animations, and setting the right mood with music and visuals. The process was both demanding and fulfilling, and seeing the final result touch people's hearts made it all worthwhile.
Do you work in Canada and the Philippines too and how is that experience, if yes?
Yes, I do work in both Canada and the Philippines, and it's been an enriching experience. Each country has its unique cultural nuances and artistic flavors, which I love to infuse into my work. It also allows me to connect with diverse audiences and explore different perspectives, making my art more dynamic and relatable.
What work of yours was featured at the King's Cross Library?
At the King's Cross Library, my artwork from a photography series celebrating the vibrant spirit of urban life was featured. It was an exciting moment for me to see my work displayed in such a prominent and public space, reaching a wide audience and sparking conversations.
What kind of animated works are you involved in? How is it different from your illustrative works?
In animation, I'm involved in creating short films, motion graphics, and visual effects for various projects. Animation allows me to breathe life into characters and stories, adding a dynamic dimension to the visual narrative. On the other hand, my illustrative works focus more on standalone visuals, capturing specific moments or ideas in a static form.
Do you prefer illustration over animation or vice versa and why?
It's a tough call, as I genuinely enjoy both illustration and animation. Illustration lets me delve deep into details and create captivating standalone visuals, while animation allows me to tell more complex stories with movement and emotion. Each medium offers unique creative opportunities, and I love exploring both to keep my artistic expression fresh and diverse.
Please share some essential lessons you've learned with the younger artists out there.
Embrace your unique voice and style. Don't be afraid to experiment and take risks in your art. Be open to collaborations and learn from other artists. Stay curious, seek inspiration from various sources, and never stop honing your skills. Art is a journey of self-discovery, so be patient with yourself and keep the fire burning within. Remember, it's okay to take detours; every experience shapes your artistic growth in the end.