Artist Interview with Mike Ramos

Art isn’t something that can be conjured up at the tip of a hat. It’s something deeper, something more meaningful, art is a representation of the artist.  What stands out in people’s minds and makes a lasting impression is art that is filled with inspiration.

Today’s featured Prismacolor artist is full of inspiration. Inspiration comes to him from anywhere, at any time, and drives him to create. His work has inspired us and that is why we want to share artist,  Mike Ramos, with you today.

Mike is a student at Columbia College in Chicago, currently pursuing a degree in graphic design. Between school and work, he finds the time to create with his Prismacolor art tools. He hopes people who see his art wonder not only what the piece is about, but also what went in to making it.

Each of Mike’s unique pieces allow the viewer to experience it in their own way, and rather than trying to describe it to you,  I’ll let you take a peek and draw your own conclusions. Now, read on to hear Mike to tell you in his own words what art and inspiration are to him.

What is inspiration? What is Art?

Well, I would say that inspiration is something that influences you, but in a good way.  It can come from anywhere really, and most of the time you don’t even realize what is inspiring you at first.  Art is a tool that allows you to view things differently through the artists prospective.  Anything can be considered art as long as it makes you think or wonder about something.

 

How did you start working as an artist?

I started working as an artist when I was about 3 or 4 years old and my parents gave me some crayons and paper(haha).  I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the arts when I got to high school.  It was the only thing I ever really enjoyed about my day. 

What’s the best art tip you’ve ever gotten?

The best advice I have ever gotten is to have a beginners mind and always be learning.

What inspires you to create? 

 Anything and everything inspires me to create.

If you could aspire to be someone or something what would it be? 

 I don’t think I would ever aspire to somebody or something other than myself.  Sure, there are people that live the lifestyle I would like to live but I wouldn’t change myself for anybody.  I aspire to be the best I can be, and that’s all I can do.

What Prismacolor products do you use?

I’m a big fan of the studio markers and colored pencils.  Both of them work extremely well when used over watercolors.  It makes your drawing much more interesting and adds depth to the piece as well.

Favorite Prismacolor product:

Studio markers/colored pencils

What piece of art work that you have completed are you most proud of ?

I’ve been working on making silkscreen t-shirts for the last few months and I just printed my first design.  It was a long process so I am very excited to get this project going.

Where would you like your art to take you? 

To a house on the beach in California

Finish this sentence: “ I am…

…just another brick in the wall.”

Thanks Mike, for your insightful and creative answers and, not to mention, work! Check out more of Mike’s work and artist insights at the Prismacolor website where he is also a featured artist!