We recently connected with Robb FrostByte King and have shared our conversation below.
Robb, appreciate you joining us today. Do you wish you had waited to pursue your creative career or do you wish you had started sooner?
A lot sooner! When I was in my 20’s, I was trying to figure out my life’s path. I stopped studying Commercial Art because there were people in my life that constantly reminded me that there were no stable careers in Art. If I followed my heart and learned all I could. I’d probably be working for DC or Marvel, illustrating comic books… better yet, running my own comic book company.
Robb, 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’ve been drawing or doing some form of art since I was 4 years old. My Uncle John was good at sketching and inspired me. As I grew older, I learned how to draw the human body from looking at muscle books and comic books. I started drawing graffiti at 12/13. By my Senior year in high school, my art teacher, who was fascinated with my artwork, would enter my artwork in various art contests thoughout the city of Cleveland, Ohio without me knowing. I actually won several. My high school had a logo contest call “M.A.D.: Make A Difference.” I won the contest.
When I was in my late 20’s, my Uncle John introduced me to Adobe Photoshop. I wasn’t excited about the program but, I continued to play around with it. By 31, I entered the Cleveland Poetry Scene to experience something different. I’d bring my sketchbook and draw while the poets were performing. I was asked to design the street sign every week. Two years later, I was asked to be a part of the poetry group, Chief Rocka Entertainment. Not only was I mentored to become a better performance poet, I was the group’s graphic designer. From there, I gained many new clients… Syre Arts was born!
What I love most from my arts business is, I get to bring my clients’ ideas to life. I’m very patient and willing to keep working until my clients are satisfied. Whether if it’s a logo, a banner, a CD cover, or children’s book illustrations, I want my clients to be excited with my work. I’m honored to be able to be able to create designs for clients thoughout the US and be a part of events like Painting in the Park and Lift Every Voice Open Mic Poetry.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
What’s most rewarding for me is my art attracts people of all walks thoughout my social media. I’m growing in my craft and learning new art programs. I’m also honored to meet new artists from my city and give them advice on how to keep thiving.
My 10 year old nephew is fascinated with my artwork and is inspired to be an artist. He’s been drawing since he was 5/6 and is getting better everyday. I’m excited to teach him everything I know.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
Three Feet From Gold: Turn Your Obstacles Into Opportunities by Sharon L. Lechter & Greg S. Reid This book inspired me to use everything I love to enhance my arts business. It was gifted to me from a dear friend, Photographer McKinley Wiley 14 years ago, when my business was declining.
“Combine your Passion — something that makes your heart sing, with your Talent — something you excel in, multiply it by the right Association of people or organizations you surround yourself with, and Action — concrete steps towards your goal and then add Faith — the unwavering belief in yourself, and you will have your own unique Success Equation.
Sharon L. Lecher & Greg S. Reid
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @robbkingart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frostbyte76/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/robbking76