Meet Conrad Javier | Art Director/Illustrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Conrad Javier and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Conrad, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Drawing has been a driving force in life since the moment I picked up a pencil. I started drawing because I wanted to be more like my big brother. That love of drawing led me studying traditional painting and drawing in college. Being a creative was always the one thing in my life that truly didn’t feel like work. Now, don’t get me wrong, it takes a ton of practice and patience to hone your craft, but I love every minute of it. It’s the thrill of learning something new that excites me. Being creative is at my very core and influences every part of my day. I love it. I’ve loved art since day one and I’m blessed to make a career out of it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is heavily influenced from Traditional Illustration and Traditional fine art. I love sports, film, comics, video games, and music. I draw as much influence as I can from each of my interests to create art that is infused with vibrancy and color. I also have background in design and love to play with design elements mixed in with representational realism.

I believe in the patience of being creative. Yes, the spontaneous and unknown can occur and is welcomed, but generally when working as a practicing artist you must rely mostly on sheer discipline and will to complete a project. I love that every client comes with a new problem for me to essentially solve for them. Being creative is the art of problem solving. There will be many days where you hands and eyes will miraculously forget about the last 12 years of drawing. You’ll suddenly be faced with no direct answer that not even Google can help with. These types of situations are my favorite. It forces you to look for other ways, ask more questions, and ultimately get comfortable with your own creative voice. One of the greatest lessons that I have learned over the past few years is learning how to trust my own voice. That only happens when you put yourself out there and actually “say” something in your art.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d love for a friend to visit during a typical Chicago summer. First thing I would do is pull out my Honda Metropolitan scooter and pack a day bag for the two of us. I would spend the entire week exploring the city via scooter. We’d take our time and try every food that they wanted and pull over at random city parks to just enjoy the view. People watching in the city is one of my favorite activities ever. For anyone who hasn’t had the pleasure of touring the city on a scooter, let me just say that I think that you’re seriously missing out. I would bring that friend to the museum and try to catch a sports event. We’d spend a day in the suburbs and visit the Arboretum make a day or just tasting local foods. I wouldn’t want to plan every moment. I tend to plan trips with a sense of controlled chaos.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my loving family. From day one of my creative journey, they’ve been my biggest support and inspiration. Without their sacrifice, I would not be the man that I am today.

Website: conradjavier.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conrad.javier/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conrad-javier-2850692b/

Image Credits
Work created for Bleacher Report, Berlin Braves, Complex Canada, Chicago Bulls