Artist Spotlight with Andrew Archer

Welcome to “Artist Spotlight”, our regular feature where you get to know the artists we work with.

Inspired by pop culture, fashion, surrealism, woodblock prints and his time spent in Asia, Andrew's work is a self-asserting mix of hallucinogenic color and rhythmic line.

I started with a set of sketches which all were based around the power of the ocean and it’s overwhelming nature. I liked the idea of paying homage to classic Ukiyo-e and Japanese woodblock printing but also wanted to try and give it a contemporary edge. 

The ocean was by the far the most difficult part. The workload required on the waves was massive and took a good two days just to produce the linework. After pushing and pulling on the image for a few days, the balance and color palette all came together.

How old were you when you started illustrating and what did you create?

I was around 19-20 when I first started drawing as a hobby and for some friends. I was mainly doing music gig posters and small magazine work. My first professional project was an illustration for MOJO magazine in the UK.

What is the coolest thing a fan has done for you?

Hands down the guy who bought the entire Edo Ball series and put them all up in a room.

Edo-Ball is a series of artworks created by Andrew and inspired by Basketball, Japan, NBA and Culture. Each artwork is created from scratch and has a unique story behind it.

What are your top three movies?

Spirited Away
Gladiator
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

What is your favorite pastime?

Playing pick up basketball at the local park until the sun goes down with the crew.

What would be your one superpower?

Cloning myself or cloning my drawing arm so I can draw more.

Which artist(s) inspire you?

Utagawa Kuniyoshi is a favorite for his style, Miyazaki for his storytelling and Michael Jordan for his dedication to his craft. I’m often more inspired by the work the people put in rather than the end result - It’s harder to do and also is more relevant to what it takes!

What is the one thing that keeps you going?

For the most part the love of creating but also just the desire to make and do as much cool stuff as I can in my lifetime. I’ve tried over the years to just focus on living for the day and it’s helped my work and life a lot!

If you were not an artist, what career would you have pursued?

Basketball or Music, probably the drums.

Do you have any words of wisdom for artist’s starting out?

Searching for creative freedom is never ending, you’ll always be looking to create the perfect work and the next best thing. Take note and enjoy the process and journey, this is where you will find peace and enjoy your work the most.

Andrew's piece for 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea is available to purchase here.