We are joined today by Joel who goes by the name BENDY on Discord, and whom is a three time DMC-winning artist and one of our Official Members who helps support the project.
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Joel, could you start off by giving us a brief introduction about yourself?
"I grew up and live in a small western Nebraska town. Went into the Marines right out of highschool and served one tour in Iraq. Now I'm just working full time and trying to be a good single dad to my 3 gorgeous kids"What inspired you to pick up art after your military service? and what motivated you to join this group?
"My therapist and I have been trying to figure out a good way for me to cope with my stress due to PTSD and other physical ailments. I tried drawing in January last year and in June my friend G-Baby invited me to this group. I’m happy to be here, it’s a great community with no drama and friendly members. I’ve made some good lifelong friends in this group"In what ways has expressing your inner creativity and connecting with other like minds through art been personally fulfilling for you?
"Not being afraid to be judged was a huge selling point for me. It's awesome to be able to just have fun and truly enjoy making art within the AAP"
Manning the AAP booth at TCG Con with art prints and card signings
What do you find most rewarding about taking part in the monthly DMC art challenges?
"The DMC always pushes me to try new ideas and to come up with something unique in my own way"Has your artistic style evolved over time since joining this group?
"Absolutely! Looking back at last year January I couldn’t draw hardly at 3rd grade level (in my opinion) and now I’m trying to get onto a TCG art team"How have the friendships that you've made within the group impacted you?
"I’ve made real friendships and met a few members that I consider true friends. We share art with each other randomly, talk and check in with each other and these are true friendships that have extended beyond just the internet. We are always pushing and motivating each other, it’s an awesome feeling!"
Joel and Ambassador Hannah sign each other's cards at TCG Con Houston
What keeps you passionate about art and being a part of this community?
"I want to be able to help and give back to the art community in the same way it has helped me through some hard times that I’ve had. Art has truly changed my life this past year and I’m here for the long run"Is there a specific piece of your art that feels meaningful to you, and why?
"Carnivorous Cactus is my favorite art piece I’ve done because it’s always been a dream of mine to be on a tcg art team ever since before I quit drawing and went into the military. Carnivorous Cactus was the first time I’ve had my art featured in any way and is a dream come true"
'Carnivorous Cactus' - Bendy's first DMC-winning piece for the Mega Reptilia set
What goals are you working towards in regards to the next step in your creative journey?
"To be on a TCG art team and see the joy of people pulling my art out of a booster pack of an actual game"and lastly, What advice would you give to others looking for an inspiring outlet like you've found through art?
"Never be afraid to share your artwork. My grandpa used to tell me when he was alive, you miss every shot you don’t take."
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Thank you once again to Joel for allowing us to share his inspiring story with the community, and we look forward to interviewing more artists in the near future.