Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ralph Nochete. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ralph, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. The first dollar you earn is always exciting – it’s like the start of a new chapter and so we’d love to hear about the first time you sold or generated revenue from your creative work?
The first time I earned some bread through my art was back at my college newspaper org. I didn’t expect I’d end up earning some money with drawing. I only applied so I could learn and expand my knowledge. Next thing I knew, I was earning some money already. It ain’t much but I was overwhelmed knowing that this could be something I could do in the future. I kept on with the job and eventually got the Art Director title. I learned a lot like thinking things through on a bigger scale. The job had me managing fellow artists too. Adding up some people skills here and there while doing the thing that I love, drawing.
Ralph, 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?
As I continued to venture the art scene, I found out more ways I could turn my art into earnings. I had to teach myself how to perform better. Studied different types of art, learned from masters and applied them as much as I could.
Eventually I figured out going to conventions as an artist was an option. I learned how to transition my art into prints. In present day, I still continue participating in events and come up with new products from my art. Like stickers, posters, t-shirts and caps.
I got the hang of doing commissions too. It was a challenge in its own. You had to understand and empathize with different kinds of people. Providing with whatever they need, art wise. I think what sets me apart from others is that I have the tendency to go beyond my current abilities with, if not all, most of my commission requests. I treat it as a challenge and opportunity to learn and grow at the same time produce something that’s above my current best.
There was this one time that I had to do a collage or a pinup as a commission. It was sort of my first time that I’ll be doing large art with a subject/subjects that I’m familiar with. I was excited doing it because I looked at it as a chance to apply most of my knowledge and come up with an output I’d be very proud of. I was very happy with the outcome and encouraged me to keep going.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Every artist will definitely go through this at some point of their journey. There will come a time when they will encounter criticisms be it constructive or the opposite. I advice you to strengthen your resolve. Keep at it until you hear the praises you deserve. Also criticisms are not a bad thing. It only shows that there’s more room to improve on. It means you can still get better and better. Ain’t that exciting?
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Ah, this can be a common thing among upstarting artists. The best advice here is just keep going. Keep sharing your art to the world at the same time keep improving. That’s the essence of it that you really have to have a firm grasp on.
But if you really want something like a life hack or another way to capture people’s interest. Some artists start with fanarts, or making art of topics, subjects or anything in particular that people follow. But please don’t lose sight of your goals and dreams. Don’t forget to keep drawing whatever you love to draw.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomeatcomics/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMeatArt
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/nomeat15
Image Credits
FEU Advocate, Mark Teodosio,