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Luke Feldman
Curvaceous girls: An interview with the Australian illustrator by Mark McGough

Luke Feldman is relatively new to the scene and yet already a big name in illustration. His unique style sets him apart but at the same time evokes that familar feeling of tranquility. The asesthetics and emotions of his work, which have proved so popular, will know doubt secure him an even brighter future.

What follows are 9 carefully selected questions.

1. Your artistic style seems to be a hybrid of different styles with a unique twist. How would you describe your work?

The SKAFFS collection of illustrations and animations is an ever evolving group of work. My art is based on basic shapes that allow for flow and perfect symmetry. I also use a vibrant palette of colours that also is distinctive to my work. My work is probably best known for its SKAFFS sexy chicks. It seemed natural to incorporate stylised females with their sensually curvaceous form. I like to consider my style
as a blend of graphic design, illustration and fine art.

2. On average, how long can a single image take to illustrate?

It can take anywhere between a day to a week to complete an illustration and it depends on the complexity of the piece and whether it is an ink illustration, acrylic or a digital illustration.

3. Do you have any rules for the use of colour in your illustrations?

Depending on the piece and the emotion I am trying to evoke, I tend to use vibrant complimentary colours.

4. As a designer, do you believe in working for a design company first or starting up on your own?

Having worked in various design industries, both illustration and animation, prior to going out on my own, I speak from experience that there were definitely benefits to working for design companies. Working with different mediums gave me the technical skills and opportunity to adapt my own style in various ways. This experimentation allowed me to master different techniques and has definitely helped me out in offering different design services to clients today.

5. The first few exhibitions are a crucial stage for any new artist. Did you wait until you had a following for your first one and how did you make sure the right people came? What advice would you give to art students graduating this year, for holding an exhibition?

Any exhibition is crucial to an artist. There is definitely a lot of planning that goes into it at least 4-6 months prior. This is important in ensuring a successful show. I don’t believe in waiting for your first exhibition. There are many opportunities to get into group art shows and this is important in getting exposure. Exhibiting gave me a better understanding of the current art trends and helped me in targeting my style to the appropriate market. Notifying magazines and art blogs of upcoming shows and sending out flyers helped me in getting the right people to attend. My advice to students wanting to hold an exhibition would be:

Plan art show theme, title, art message.

Plan exhibition venue, timeline and exhibition opening.

Communicate your messages to magazines,
art blogs, sponsors, local newspapers.

Prepare and submit a media release to journalists, editors and reporters.

6. You have been published a lot. What marketing advice can you give to young artists & designers?

Create a personal website. Having an up to date website www.skaffs.com with the latest news and work has been the main source of marketing for me. Keeping blogs informed of the latest work and events has also kept them interested.

7. People always dream of getting their big break. How did you get in contact with your first big client and how did this lead to getting the commission?

I have been working in the industry for over 10 years now and I cannot really pin point a “big break”. I have been fortunate that work has been quite steady for me. In terms of a “big client” I would have to say Coca-Cola. Their agent happened to read about me in an Australian design magazine. Since then, I have been fortunate to work with Microsoft subsidiary companies, Apple subsidiary companies, music bands and fashion companies.

8. For young budding illustrators and designers, what action do you recommend they take in the next week if they are serious about succeeding?

Work hard at developing your signature style and skills and be able to work in a multitude of platforms as this opens more job opportunities. Get involved with the local art community and events. Always be professional, efficient and have great communication skills as this will bring clients back and help with word-of-mouth.

9. What was the best piece of advice someone from the industry gave to you?

Work Hard. Play Hard.

To find out more about Luke Feldman aka SKAFFS visit skaffs.com