We were lucky to catch up with Kyle Horne recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kyle, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
My childhood fascination with “The Simpsons,” which remains my favorite television program, ignited my interest in animation. At the age of 7, I was captivated by the characters’ movement and speech, a curiosity that has persisted throughout my life. This early exposure fostered a deep appreciation for both the artistic and technical aspects of animation, transforming a childhood wonder into a lifelong commitment to visual storytelling. It has been a rewarding journey, and I am enthusiastic about continuing to explore this field.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Growing up, “The Simpsons” ignited my passion for the arts and set me on a path of creativity that continues to evolve. Over the years, I’ve drawn inspiration from various aspects of pop culture, which have shaped the way I create my art. I specialize in children’s books, collaborating with several amazing writers on projects like “Amazing Annabelle,” “Fancy Pants Poodle,” “A Pear in an Apple Tree,” and “Selfie Bear.” I also teach watercolor on canvas, sharing my love for creativity with others. Additionally, I take on commissions that allow me to bring unique visions to life.
Volunteering has always been a significant part of my journey, and I’ve collaborated with numerous organizations, including March of Dimes, the American Kidney Foundation, Jack and Jill, and the Lions Club, to name a few. These experiences have enabled me to use my artistic talent to promote important causes and support others in their challenges.
At the age of 21, I faced my own battle when I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. This experience deepened my connection to my art and led me to create a graphic novel titled “Beyond Conditions,” which centers around my journey with colitis. Through this work, I aim to show others that their conditions don’t define them and that it’s possible to find hope even in difficult times.
What sets me apart is my ability to combine storytelling with my artistic skills to address real-life issues, particularly in the realm of health and wellness. I’m incredibly proud of the impact my work can have on individuals facing their own struggles. My goal is to create art that resonates, uplifts, and helps people feel seen and understood. I want potential clients and followers to know that my brand is built on authenticity, creativity, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others through the power of storytelling and art.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Absolutely! Reflecting on my creative journey, there are a few resources I wish I had discovered earlier. One of the most valuable has been YouTube. It’s an incredible platform where I found countless tutorials and videos showcasing different techniques that have truly improved my art. There’s a wealth of information available that is accessible to everyone, which makes it an essential tool for any artist.
Another resource I would highly recommend is SVSLearn.com I often refer to it as the “Netflix for artists” because it offers an extensive library of courses and lessons led by professional illustrators. The variety of tools and techniques covered on the platform can cater to artists at any level, and I think it would have been a game-changer for me earlier on.
Additionally, I’ve realized how beneficial it is to reach out to my favorite creatives. Connecting with others in the field not only provides guidance but also opens up opportunities for collaboration and mentorship.
Lastly, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of practice. While it may seem tedious at times especially when tackling the more challenging aspects of my craft consistently honing those skills has made all the difference in my growth as an artist. The techniques and insights I’ve gained from dedicated practice have proven invaluable over time.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
A little while ago, I was diagnosed with colitis, and honestly, it felt like everything was crashing down. It impacted so many parts of my life from what I could eat to how I handled my daily routine and even my relationships. I really had to figure out who was there for me and who wasn’t, which was tough. I felt overwhelmed by all the limitations.
But during that rough patch, something clicked for me: life throws all sorts of curveballs, and while those challenges can be pretty intimidating, it’s all about how we respond. I realized that by tackling these issues head-on and understanding that I wasn’t alone in this, I could find ways to push through.
Instead of letting my diagnosis take over my life, I focused on what I could control like leaning on my friends and family, learning more about the condition and taking the right steps to improve my quality of life, and exploring new ways to be creative. I learned that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back; it’s about adapting and growing through tough moments. That experience has really shaped how I view challenges, both personally and in my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kylehorneart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylehorneart/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/KyleHorneArt/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-horne-54a630a3
- Twitter: @kylehorneart
- Youtube: @toonblastsart8655
