Name:
Melissa Kojima
Website, Blog:
www.melissakojima.com
www.melissakojima.blogspot.com
Describe your illustration style.
It’s peculiar and whimsical and can be either very funny or very creepy. I strive for it to be able to do both.
How did you get started in the illustration field?
I think I’m still struggling with that, but I’ve done a few jobs here and there mostly for people I know or people I know who refer people they know. I’m still waiting for the boom. I’m marketing myself like crazy, armed with all kinds of books, workshops and networking.
When I was younger I wanted to be…
I think I thought I’d be a writer or an artist and that seems how it’s turning out.
What’s your favorite medium?
I love acrylic paint and ball point pen, but I have never tried them together. That might be an idea to try. I love the opacity and subtle color shifts you can get with acrylic. And I love the immediacy of ball point pen. I seem to have a real knack for doing sketches with it. Least Favorite? Maybe, clay. I’ve tried to many different mediums and it was very hard to decide which one to use and which one would best serve my purposes. But clay has not really been my friend. Maybe, I should try it again.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Drawing all day is amazing. I cannot think of a better way to spend my time.
Describe your typical workday.
I’m at the drawing table by 8AM. I may be doing sketches, starting final pencils or painting, depending on what stage a project is in. Later, I’ll call the client and check up with him/her on how things are going. I usually break for lunch around 1PM. Maybe, check and write some emails after lunch. I work until 6 or 7PM, depending upon deadlines, of course.
What was your favorite project?
Right now, I’m doing some illustrations for a documentary on Shaman Visions. It is like a dream come-true job. I’m illustrating things I always hoped a client would ask me to do—like monsters and ghost. It’s great.
What advice do you wish you had at the beginning of your illustration career?
I wish someone would have taught me more about running a business. Of course, illustrating is a large part of it, but you wear all hats when it comes to running the business—marketer, negotiator, secretary, accountant, PR, etc..
How do you balance work and play?
Work and Play—oh they are so similar. I draw when I work and I draw when I’m at play.
What are some of your inspirations?
Los Angeles is a haven for inspiration. I love walking down the street and seeing all the peculiar folks. In my mind, I draw them—the lines of their face, their rumpled shirts, their hunched backs, etc. They sink in and they become a part of all my work.
Outside of assignments, do you have creative side projects or hobbies?
Oh yes! I am a freak about paper-mache. I have many strange creatures I’ve created. I’m not sure what to do with them. They are taking over my home. But I love them. And yes, we talk, have chats, although it’s kind of one way.
If you weren’t an illustrator, what would you be?
I’d be a costume designer for huge operas or elaborate horror movies—-lots of drama, fabric and clothing to whisk you away on a fantastical journey.
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