The Evolution of an Illustrator: Tim Probert's Journey
In the world of illustration, finding your unique style is a pivotal moment, and Tim Probert's story is a testament to that. From his early days at Boston University to his current success as the author and illustrator of the 'Lightfall' series, Probert's path is a fascinating exploration of artistic growth and self-discovery.
Early Aspirations and Education
Probert's journey began with a BFA in painting, a decision driven by his passion for art but lacking a clear direction. This uncertainty is relatable, as many aspiring artists struggle to pinpoint their niche. What's intriguing is how Probert's initial attempts to emulate successful artists fell flat. This raises a crucial question: is artistic success about imitation or embracing one's individuality?
Pixar's Influence and Self-Teaching
A pivotal moment came when Probert discovered the art-of books from Pixar movies. This inspired him to teach himself Photoshop, a tool that would become integral to his process. Here, we see the power of finding your muse and the importance of self-initiated learning in the creative field.
Breaking into the Industry
Probert's entry into the industry was through a scratch-and-sniff book, 'New York, Phew York,' which gained attention due to the author's marketing prowess. This highlights the role of luck and networking in an artist's career, as much as talent. It's a reminder that getting noticed is often as much about visibility as it is about skill.
Influences and Inspiration
Probert's influences, such as Hayao Miyazaki and Kazu Kibuishi, are not just about their artistic styles but also their storytelling. This underscores the importance of narrative in illustration, especially in graphic novels. Miyazaki's manga, with its weighty and detailed panels, offers a unique perspective on world-building within a single frame.
Animation and Illustration: A Symbiotic Relationship
Probert's work in animation, particularly at Nathan Love, significantly influenced his illustration style. He learned to storyboard, design characters, and manage the entire pre-production pipeline. This experience taught him efficiency and the courage to discard what doesn't work, essential skills for creating a graphic novel. The interplay between animation and illustration is a fascinating aspect of Probert's career, showing how different art forms can enhance each other.
The Lightfall Series and Beyond
'Lightfall' is a significant part of Probert's career, but it's not his only focus. He juggles multiple projects, including freelance work and personal comics. The series' planning and execution, with its tight timelines, reveal the demanding nature of the graphic novel industry. Probert's ability to manage this schedule is a testament to his dedication and time management skills.
Finding Your Artistic Voice
The most striking aspect of Probert's journey is his realization that leaning into his natural drawing style was the key to success. This is a powerful message for all artists: finding your unique voice is about embracing your instincts, not mimicking others. Cory Godby's mentorship program rejection, though disappointing, offered a valuable insight—to draw like you want to, not like others expect you to.
In conclusion, Tim Probert's career is an inspiring narrative of artistic evolution, demonstrating that the path to success is often about discovering and embracing your authentic style. His story encourages artists to explore, learn, and, most importantly, trust their artistic instincts.
