Dan Orgill is one of a number of artists I’ve had the pleasure of finding on Twitter. His style of expressive, dynamic art has attracted my attention ever since I laid eyes on it. He also seems like a genuinely humble guy, and apparently a neighbor; I live very near Ontario on the New York side of the border.
He recently did me the favor of answering some of my burning questions about his life and career.
Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from? Where do you live now? What did you want to be when you grew up?
I’m from Ontario, Canada, and still living there.
As far as what I wanted to be, that went from architect to dentist to comic artist, none of which I became. At the age of eleven I even thought being a professional wrestler would be cool. I was eventually convinced that likely wouldn’t pan out, ha!
What sort of artwork do you do? What’s your main medium?
I do art related to comics, sci-fi and pop culture. I work traditionally in gouache. I’ll use digital tools like Photoshop or ProCreate for layouts, but all the finished product is by hand.
How/where did you learn your skills?
As far as learning art skills, I’m mostly self taught. I enjoyed drawing as a child and teenager, taking art classes in high school. I drew on/off through my 20’s, but got serious in my early 30’s. I took weekend workshops at various locations, including a local college, art centres and even an art atelier in Toronto; The Academy of Realist Art. Past that, I just practiced as much as I could. Having a full time career wouldn’t allow for enrolment in regular year round art courses.
What made you want to start making art? What motivates you to keep it up?
As I’ve been drawing since such a young age, I’ve always wanted to make art, more or less. As far as continuing, getting enjoyment out of it should be the first consideration for any artist. But, not to overlook the obvious, making art and actually getting paid for it is a motivating factor as well. I continue so I can build my portfolio and hope to “get noticed”.
Where do you get your inspiration?
I don’t really focus on or put much stock in “inspiration”. Drawing should be something you do because it’s part of your routine, you enjoy it or it’s your job and pays the bills. Inspiration is great, but true inspiration doesn’t come often. I prefer to just get in there and do it.
Who are your favorite artists?
I have many favourites, so let’s see if I can name ‘em all:
Alex Ross, Alex Raymond, Frazetta, John & Sal Buscema, John Romita, Wally Wood, Lee Weeks, Paolo Rivera, Michael Cho, Jack Kirby, John Byrne, Walt Simonson, James Bama, Joe Jusko, John Paul Leon, Greg Smallwood, Al Williamson, Neal Adams, Chris Samnee, Bernie Wrightson…..there’s more, I’m sure.
Where do you like to show your artwork?
I just use social media platforms; Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.
What is your favorite piece? Tell us a bit about it.
I’m not sure if I could pick a favorite piece, but I did a Hulk vs. Thing painting that has gotten my overall best response on social media. I figure any comic fan needs to do their take on it as a matter of duty & principal, ha.
Do you have any advice for other artists?
I’ve only had very limited professional work, so advice from me should be taken with a grain of salt. My advice would focus more on the act of getting your skills to a high level. You need to practice, a lot. If you’re spending time doing other things like playing video games, or anything not art related, you really need to prioritize.
Art is hard, and it is a grind. Try and surround yourself with other artists, take classes, join online groups. Find other artists who are better than you, and try to learn from them. Keep an open mind, and take in as much as you can. Don’t ever settle, and don’t ever stop learning. Any advice you can get from a seasoned pro, drink it in.
Make sure you learn all facets of the business, from dealing with clients to good time management.
And above all, be professional. Give the client your best and meet your deadlines. Don’t ever phone it in.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
I’m sure I’ll think of something as soon as I press send.
You can find Dan Orgill on his Twitter page, @DanOrgill1 and on his website
I hope you’ll take the time to appreciate his dynamic style.