Josh Evans is a Los Angeles-based illustrator who loves old books and the plays the accordion. I particularly like the thought-provoking work he does, and I’ve asked him a few questions about how he does it and what inspires him.
What are the main tools you use in creating your illustrations?
I mainly use a brush pen and pencil and then I go back with Photoshop for color. I’ve got some background in printmaking and when I can, I try and mimic those techniques in my digital work. So if I have a color layer I try and create it with ink on vellum traced over the drawn layer and I scan that and use it instead of just using a boring Photoshop brush.
I also work with gouache and sometimes acrylic. I love how unforgiving and unpredictable gouache is, and acrylic is amazing for it’s versatility.
What are you working on at the moment?
Right now I’m working on a book cover for Small Desk Press by Lizzy Acker. The book is called Monster Party and I’m super stoked about it. I’m also busy working on some pieces for exhibitions here and there. I’m also trying to learn a few new songs on the accordion.
Where do you mainly get inspired?
I find a lot of inspiration in my extensive collection of books. I worked at a library for a few years and when people would donate books to the library I would get first pick (the books land in the trash most of the time anyways) I got all kinds of great books from there.
Some nice high end art books, but a lot of old encyclopedias, a book of erotic limericks, medical procedures, military yearbooks, an illustrated children’s pulp novel, and lots of EC comics. I’m also inspired by the Los Angeles. I’ve lived in the area my whole life and the colors and the landscape are everywhere in my work. I think cowboy movies are pretty sweet too.
© Josh Evans, 2010
