This first month we speak to Werner Deidericks, a talented South African artist from Cape Town. Blending styles such as super deformed with illustrative and painterly work, Werner’s work is an eclectic mix of both digital and traditional approaches.
Hi there Werner, welcome to ArtSketch.org, we’re happy to have you here!
Hi, thank you for having me.
You’re an artist growing at a fast pace – when did your love for art first start, and how long have you been creating art?
I’ve always been in love with art, having grown up in an artistic home. It was only during my mid high school years that I was set on making art my occupation. After school I did my first year in a graphic design degree and I’ve been creating ever since.
You’re an illustrator, designer and artist, which creative path is your favourite?
I prefer illustration above the rest. I feel, personally, that it’s a broader canvas to explore.
What’s the average day like for you when you’re working on an art project?
I usually start off with some research on the project I’m working on, then I proceed by working, taking small breaks in between.
Tell us about your inspirations when creating works, what drives you?
I’m inspired by a lot of things really, but music and books are the two main inspirations. There’s nothing better than finding images in words.
Your work has a great finished quality to it, could you elaborate more on your general workflow when creating?
Thank you. I’m quite the perfectionist when it comes to my work. Sometimes I can hate everything that I’m doing and start over from scratch about 4 times or more until I’m completely satisfied. I also have a nasty habit of working on more than one artwork at a time, but I’m learning how to prioritise.
How did you go about learning and getting better at art? Did you do a lot of reading? Just straight practice and trial and error? What is your preferred learning method?
All of the above. Practice is where most of the improvement comes from, but a good knowledge of what to practice is also needed. I try to read as much as I can and I learn from other people.
Are you an advocate of using reference in your artwork? If so, how does reference help you gain an edge?
Absolutely, sourcing reference material is a great way of seeing what has already been done and learning in the process. The edge lies in your personal style though. Never copy something, recreate it!
Your personal site tells us you listen to music while you work – how does music help the creative process?
I try to listen to music that fits the theme and mood of the project I’m working on. It helps to stay consistent and keeps me entertained at the same time. Also, listening to music that you haven’t heard or wouldn’t normally listen to can lead to some surprising ideas.
In your view, do you believe digital art is growing in South Africa? What do you believe SA’s future on this creative path is?
There is a definite need for digital art in South Africa, but I think the market needs a little more persuasion. I believe that we as creatives are all working very hard to promote art in general and there are a number of great initiatives from all over the country that are already sparking interest, so growth is already under way. Our focus should be set on maintaining that growth.
What work can we expect from you in the future?
I have a few projects in mind. I’m currently working on a charity project to raise awareness about human trafficking and one of my artworks will be featured in the second issue of the Velocity Graphic Anthology (www.gaining-velocity.com). Future projects may include a collaboration or two and possibly a graphic novel or art book.
Thanks for your time Werner, we look forward to seeing more great art from you in the future!
Thank you, it’s been fun!
Connect with Werner
Personal site: http://www.wdgowild.com/
DeviantArt: http://apple-pie-boy.deviantart.com
Tags: Artist interview, ArtSketch, Digital Art, Painting, Werner Deidericks
