In this special edition of our 'Artist Talk' series we're honored to feature not one, but two OG members of the AAP. Both BNAGGY and Habilis have achieved the dream of many aspiring artists, by securing full-time gigs at a popular marijuana-themed trading card company.
Thank you both for rolling through and sharing your experiences with us in this joint interview. Let's start by taking a trip down memory lane.
What first sparked your individual passions for art, and what were some of your early influences that got your creativity blooming?
BNAGGY:
"My first spark for art came early in elementary school. I was obsessed with anime like Gundam, DBZ, Pokémon and Yugioh. I was always drawing and trying my best because I wanted to make my own comics / manga.
So I took a long break from art and through art contests my passion was sparked again. I always knew I could draw somewhat, but I had no training or knowledge of art I just kind of did my best with each piece. After joining many contests and the AAP, I was taught that maybe I need to do more research on art and learn the basics. I read many books and learned through the trial and error of my fellow artists giving me advice.
From there I posted as much of my art as I could and entered whatever contests I could and finally was spotted by the company I work with now! It was truly like a feeling of 'I finally did it'. My main goal was to work for a TCG and I felt blessed to finally achieve that."
Habilis:
"I was always drawing or coloring as a kid. Guyver, Transformers and Ninja Scroll were early influences along with Magic… Then Pokémon came out and I started drawing even more. I love animals and insects so as a kid I drew a lot of those as well."
Speaking of growth, what was the journey like for you both transitioning from aspiring Artists to working full-time in the industry? And what were some of the key highlights along the way?
Habilis:
"It’s a growing experience. I'm blessed to have been involved in and continue giving back to the community and inspiring other Artists. Working with a TCG is one thing, working with CBG is something you have to experience for yourself hahaha. “Highlight” would be working alongside fellow AAP members, getting some industry knowledge from Phill, and connecting with other collectors and artists."
BNAGGY:
"Becoming a full time artist for a TCG was everything I thought and more. I’d say we all kinda dove in headfirst and we were sent into battle right away with many artworks and deadlines. The amount of art we got to do didn’t really feel overwhelming as I already was used to doing monthly art challenges, but then that evolved into needing multiple sets done in a month's time. So we basically had to amp it up and make decisions on what the art would look like decisively and then move onto the next!
I knew it would be tough but I always couldn’t wait for the next art piece to be assigned!"
Now that you've both achieved the dream, how does the reality of becoming full-time artists compare with the expectations or ideals you had held previously? What have been some of the major perks, as well as any unexpected challenges?
BNAGGY:
"As for the perks of being an artist for a TCG, it was just nice to have your name be recognized on the cards and have people appreciate the art and reach out constantly with what was their favorite card you drew! As well as getting to meet all the great fans and collectors of the game. The challenges I’ll say is trying to find inspiration when you have none. I’ve had times of the year I had low motivation but that can’t stop you from getting your art done and appeasing the fan base as well. You always have the feeling of - I don’t want to let the community down."
Habilis:
"I had no idea what being a TCG artist was like or could unfold to be. Working full time, balancing art and family isn’t the easiest thing but most rewarding. I had no expectations and didn’t really know what I was getting myself into. Again I had only started an Instagram because a friend of mine had suggested it to me.
- Getting that first payment, things were serious and I was not playing.
- Opening packs with your art!!!
- Seeing other artists that inspired me at the cons."
How would you say your creative process and daily workflow has evolved from the early days of being involved in the AAP?
Habilis:
"I had to change now that it was being paid and more professional. Again CBG is different, having freedom on creativity and colors along with compassion is primo. AAP gave me a space to communicate with other artists and posting my artwork and others liking it definitely gave me a boost of confidence to continue my journey."
BNAGGY:
"So I’d say the AAP was a huge influence on me and my fellow artists I work with. We learned the process of criticizing each other’s artwork with the whole “iron sharpens iron” in mind. So I’d say me and Habilis brought what we learned from the group into our careers as well. We’d always be in contact with one another to ensure we could meet deadlines to our best ability. But I had to change how I worked for sure. How I did that was sketching out my ideas of all art and submitting it to my team to get approvals and once I was there with multiple sketches, it made it easier to go right into coloring and black lining."
Were there any major changes you had to make to your daily routine in order to strike that work / life balance?
BNAGGY:
"Yeah I had to make some big changes for my art. I was drawing while working at my regular job which is at an automotive factory. Build my parts on the car then draw as best I could in between the two. As well as drawing on my breaks and had to sacrifice family time unfortunately to ensure deadlines. It was tough, but I wouldn’t have it any other way."
Habilis:
"Most definitely. On the time between sets and trying to peek into the next, I always take some type of approach and practice it. Switching up mediums or choosing a different color style to fit the time constraints or due date is something to be practiced. Then again, when I get into a flow it’s non stop.
Balancing family, work and art for me is always a challenge. I like doing them all."
What are some of the ways that you have been able to keep the fire of creativity burning?
Habilis:
"I’m always doing something, learning or trying new things. I don’t know what it’s like not to. My first artwork back was a Grim reaper on vacation, and it couldn’t be more fitting. I worked for 9yrs and didn’t do much art, I was dedicating myself to work.
AAP was a gas station that I so luckily found on my journey when I was just running on fumes. Applying myself and seeing a direction also helped"
Habilis' first winning artwork during AAP's red-bordered Fan Art period
BNAGGY:
"The way I stay inspired or can get myself inspired has usually been through music. I listen to everything but I’d say finding an inspiring playlist or just songs that charge you up or get you into a mood, that’s what I do. And lastly always remember you got here for a reason so show them the reason!"
Looking back on your careers so far, what do you see as the most valuable lessons or insights you've gained?
BNAGGY:
"I’d say what I learned and value most is don’t stop drawing or correcting your craft. You’re never done, don’t let that pencil rest. There’s always room to improve and look forward to being lucky you even have the position you do!"
Habilis:
"Not knowing the TCG industry and learning the artist's role. It’s a humbling experience, I enjoy all of it. Looking at your artwork on other platforms and opening a pack is legendary.
It’s not easy navigating a career where no one openly talks about the experience."
Lastly, what advice would you offer to any peers who may be seeking similar opportunities within the industry?
Habilis:
"Entrepreneur. A lot of artists don’t have the knowledge and it helps tremendously and having a group to bounce ideas off of is great.Talk to people and sometimes stick up for yourself, art has no boundaries but your own. And work on your style, we all get inspiration but whats your style.
I guess a signature and name too.
Habilis , if you’re wondering is an archaic human known for the wealth of tools found with its fossil."
BNAGGY:
"The advice I’d give is try to learn as much as you can about art and see it with an open mind. TAKE THE CRITICISM it will evolve you in ways you couldn’t understand. Also put yourself out there, post that art you’re scared to post. Enter that contest even though you don’t win you will learn from those around you and just always try to remember that fire that sparked your interest in the first place!"
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Thanks again to BNAGGY and Habilis for sharing their stories with us. Be sure to follow them both on Instagram and keep an eye out for more features in our 'Artist Talk' series.