Tim Probert, the author and illustrator of the fantasy graphic novel series Lightfall, has a unique journey that blends his passion for art with a diverse range of experiences. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of finding your own artistic voice. In this article, I'll delve into Probert's journey, exploring how his background in animation and his dedication to his craft have shaped his work as an illustrator. I'll also discuss the influences that have guided his artistic development and the aesthetic principles that define his work. Finally, I'll reflect on Probert's future plans and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for this talented artist.
A Journey into Illustration
Probert's journey into illustration began with a passion for painting and a desire to explore the world of art. After graduating from Boston University with a BFA in painting, he embarked on a path of self-discovery, experimenting with different styles and techniques. This period of exploration was crucial in helping him find his own artistic voice, as he struggled to break into the field of illustration.
One of the key moments in Probert's journey was his work on the scratch-and-sniff book New York, Phew York. This project, which brought him into the world of children's literature, was a turning point in his career. The success of this book led to opportunities with Macmillan Publishers, where he was asked to illustrate a chapter book. This marked the beginning of his professional journey as an illustrator.
Influences and Inspiration
Probert's work is deeply influenced by a range of artists and styles. One of his greatest influences is Hayao Miyazaki, the renowned Japanese animator and manga artist. Miyazaki's unique storytelling and stunning artwork have left a lasting impression on Probert, who admires the way Miyazaki draws and tells stories. Another significant influence is Kazu Kibuishi, the creator of the popular graphic novel series Amulet. Kibuishi's work has opened up new possibilities for Probert, showing him the potential for big, serialized fantasy stories in comics.
Probert's background in animation has also played a crucial role in shaping his work as an illustrator. His experience at Nathan Love Animation Studio, where he worked as an art director, has provided him with a wealth of skills that have informed his illustration work. Storyboarding, character design, and environment creation are just a few of the tasks he took on at the studio, and these skills have proven invaluable in his illustration work.
The Dynamic Between Animation and Illustration
The dynamic between Probert's background in animation and his work in illustration is a fascinating one. His experience in animation has taught him the importance of drawing quickly, clearly, and efficiently, as well as the value of not being afraid to throw things out. These skills have proven invaluable in his illustration work, particularly when thumbnailing a 250+ page book. The two worlds have constantly fed, informed, and improved each other, creating a rich and diverse artistic practice.
Lightfall: A Focused Endeavor
Probert's current focus is on the Lightfall series, which is now the primary focus of his day-to-day work. While he has other projects on the side, the Lightfall series has become a central part of his artistic practice. The series, which is set in the land of Irpa, a world without sun, follows the protagonist Bea and her friend Cad on an epic quest to save their world from eternal darkness. Probert's work on this series has been a labor of love, and he has been able to refine and improve his craft as he progresses through the series.
The Process of Writing and Illustrating
The process of writing and illustrating a Lightfall book is a complex and time-consuming one. Probert typically takes around 18 months to complete a book, with six months dedicated to writing and thumbnailing, and another six months spent drawing and painting. This process is both challenging and rewarding, and it has allowed Probert to develop a deep understanding of the craft of illustration.
Finding Your Own Aesthetic
One of the key aspects of Probert's work is his unique aesthetic. He has spent many years trying to draw different styles and emulate the work of other artists, but it wasn't until he leaned into his own style that he found success. This realization came when he was rejected from a mentorship program, but the illustrator Cory Godby wrote him a note encouraging him to focus on his own style. This advice has become Probert's guiding aesthetic principle, and it has helped him develop a distinct and captivating artistic voice.
The Future of Probert's Work
As Probert looks to the future, he is starting to think about life after Lightfall. He is currently working on the fifth book in the series, and the plan is for there to be six books in all. Once the series is complete, he will face the challenge of finding new projects and exploring new artistic directions. This transition will be a significant one, and it will be interesting to see how Probert navigates this new phase of his career.
In conclusion, Tim Probert's journey as an illustrator is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of finding your own artistic voice. His background in animation, diverse range of influences, and unique aesthetic have all played a crucial role in shaping his work. As he looks to the future, Probert is poised to continue pushing the boundaries of illustration and exploring new artistic directions. His work is a source of inspiration for artists everywhere, and his journey is a reminder that success in art comes from a deep passion for the craft and a willingness to take risks.
