Today we’d like to introduce you to Leon Foster.
Hi Leon, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve been an artist for as long as I can remember. It’s always been an escape for me.
When I was in middle school I really started thinking about what I wanted to do, art and animation just felt like it was natural for me to pursue, since I spent so much time drawing and watching anime already. So that’s when I really started pursuing my crafts seriously. I’ve been practicing and growing since then.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Much like anything worth pursuing, there’s been many struggles.
I’ve always struggled with my mental health, which has of course made it to where doing much of anything has been difficult some days, especially picking up a pencil or my tablet pen. I’ve also had a few things happen within my personal life, which I’d rather not get into, that have paused my pursuits at times.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m primarily an illustrator and character artist. However, I have recently started working on finishing and putting my animations out there as well.
I’d like to think that I’m known for my use of colors and how expressive my work is.
I’m most proud of how much my art has grown with me over the years, I take a lot of pride in my pursuit to constantly grow and improve.
I think what sets me apart from others is my art! Every artist is different and has a unique voice, so naturally no one really fits an exact mold.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Art and Animation is currently in a bit of an odd spot. We seem to have more people than ever becoming interested in creative pursuits, which is amazing! We’re seeing large amounts of creative works and projects being created every day.
However, there have already been big shifts and changes happening that makes an already competitive field, more competitive. With the rise of A.I, it’s made it difficult for artists to compete against the systems that are built using, often times stolen, art to pump out large numbers of content that human artists can’t really keep up with sustainably. Especially with companies trying to cut costs, by using A.I instead of hiring artists.
Though with the efforts I’ve seen taking place lately, keep me hopeful that the industry will continue to grow and become more accessible. But, only time will tell.
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