Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Max Gibbs. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Max, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

My art journey was mostly self-taught. My middle and high school offered art classes, but at the time, I wanted to be an actor. Though I never got any big parts. What I was in charge of was the set design. I would spend countless hours painting every backdrop, prop, or set piece. I honestly point to most of my current knowledge of that. It forced me out of my comfort zone. Learn new techniques and work on a project I wouldn’t have done alone. That taught me to explore different mediums, subjects, and styles. Since I never had any formal art training, the best thing you can do as an artist is get out of your comfort zone and try new things. You’ll learn something new and useful along the way! Also, having other artist friends helps a lot, too. Asking for help or advice also can get you far.

Max, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I got into the craft as a hobby. Never would I have thought I would be making any form of income off my work. The majority of my work is freelance commissions. My specialty is character focuses like sprite work. I’ve been very proud of the work I’ve done for smaller YouTubers and Twitch streamers. Making various sprites with a range of expressions is so fun to work on. Character work is my favorite thing to work on! Many of my work involves my clients wanting. character sprites, designs, key art, or a splash.

The problems I solve involve design choices and colors. Colors are where my art shines the most. My bright vibrant colors, I believe, set me apart from most. I like my work to look bright and rounded. Growing up, I was really inspired by video games, comics, and anime. So, having these striking colors and character pieces is something I wanted to show in my work.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding part is seeing the final outcome. Working on a piece for hours or even days, finally stepping back and seeing the end product. Also, getting feedback from the client to me is rewarding. I enjoy collaborating and working with my client to reach their desired product. Seeing my work used always gives me a boost of confidence! That Is the most rewarding part of being a creative! As I mentioned before, when I would work on sets, seeing them in action and on that grand scale was so rewarding. Everything just came together, and all those hours paid off.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

I think non-creatives don’t understand the amount of time and work that goes into art. There is a reason artists charge what they do. You are paying for the time, materials, skill, and rights to a work. Having custom-made artwork is a luxury. At the start of my journey, I heavily undervalued myself. I’d pour hours into the piece that I charged for 10 dollars. Sure, I took my skill level then into account, but I was undervaluing myself.

Another thing people may struggle to understand is how I was taught. I taught myself the skills I know today with help along the way. When most people hear I’m an artist, they ask about my schooling, but I never had any. I could have taken it in high school, but my passion was elsewhere. Now, as an adult, I can’t afford the prices for formal art training. So, I found helpful resources and practiced as much as I could. I asked my peers for feedback and advice where I could. Learning art doesn’t need to be expensive. You just need the drive and willingness to try new things!

Contact Info:

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