The new issue of SciFiNow is on sale now, and the latest instalment of our collaboration with the brilliant people at Poster Posse has hit the shelves! This month, the awesome Kaz Oomori took on PD James’ classic dystopian tale The Children Of Men.
We took the chance to ask Oomori about his influences, dream projects and advice for young artists
Tell us about your background as an artist. Where did you study and how did you get in to digital art?
I learned it at the Nara College of Arts in Japan. And, also I learned in Minneapolis college of art & design in the USA. There was a need to use the digital due to the trend of the times, and because that was what my client wanted. However, I cherish an analog process.
How would you sum up your style? And how has this developed over the years?
Representation silhouette, composition, a colour scheme which I think is pleasant. However, it requires a change over time because you always want to evolve.
What have been your favourite projects to work on so far?
All of the movie projects, especially SF. Recently, music and dance have been interesting.
A lot of your work is based on popular culture, what attracts you to this kind of work?
I’m influenced by my life in Japan, by old ukiyo-e or warrior pictures of Japan. Of course anime, also it includes pop culture cartoon-like images.
Are there any dream clients/collaborators you’d love to work with and why?
I have already done it! And I continue to. Disney, Pixar, Marvel, I want to collaborate with them.
I love the world that they create! They have a dream, and I want to be a part of it.
What is usually the most challenging part of a commission?
Share with more density. To propose the best approach.
What is your process? Are you a ‘tight’ sketcher of ideas or does it start loose and come together digitally?
Yes, I am a ‘tight’ Sketcher. I draw a lot of thumbnails. And we spend a lot of time working on them. It is very important because they produce the best ideas. When the time comes to select the best ones from the thumbnails, I draw it in pencil. With the final colouring, adjustment, and in the graphic work I use digital.
What programs/tools can’t you live without?
Red pencil, pencil, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop.
What advice would you give to young artists?
Learn a lot of things. The surprising thing is drawing a picture.
See more of Kaz’s work in the new issue of SciFiNow!
