Luigi Lucarelli is a 26-year-old illustrator and character designer from the United States. His work includes original characters that would be the darling of any kid’s book and pleasingly colorful work that brings memories of childhood nostalgia. A leisurely browse through his art work will bring back those imaginative times of made up friends and joyful memories of any viewer.

Toonari Post (TP): How and when did you first start practicing your art (are you traditionally trained or self-taught)?

Luigi Lucarelli (LL): I know I was really young when I started drawing, but  I’m not sure exactly what age I started. I liked drawing video game characters and cartoon characters. I’m mostly self taught, I tried school for a bit but it wasn’t for me.

TP: What mediums do you use for your art work? Which is your favorite and why?

LL: I do most of my art digitally now, I only really sketch traditionally. I’d like to get back into doing more traditional stuff though. I think digital art programs are getting really good at mimicking traditional mediums…and you can undo. So digital wins for me!

TP: What piece of your work is your favorite and why? Which one are you most proud of?

LL: My favorite piece so far is “Ice Cream Tree”. It was a lot of fun to draw all those characters I’m proud of all of my work because I always learn something from everything I draw!

TP: When you first started did you ever hit any bumps in your art process. What were they and how did you overcome them?

LL: Yes, the artist’s path can be bumpy, but I usually have a positive outlook on things. If I’m ever stuck I do other things that I’m interested in and come back to the work only after having some fun!

TP: Who or what are your inspirations and why?

LL: Norman Rockwell, Stephen Silver, Chris Ayers, Tony Fucile, and Doug Tennapel. Their artwork is wonderfully inspiring.

TP:Have you ever had to deal with a situation where someone else took credit for your work?

LL: Surprisingly, I haven’t had many situations where my art was stolen.

TP: What is your favorite subject to draw and why?

LL: I tend to draw happy, fun, cute stuff for some reason…I don’t think I’m ever going to grow up, haha. But most of my time is spent on character design of all kinds!! People, creatures, animals, robots etc!!

TP: If there was any art medium that you wish you could master, what would it be and why?

LL: Painting would be awesome to master!

TP: Outside of art what is your life like? Tell me anything about yourself that you would like.

LL: I play video games all the time! I like to go outside and find inspiration, too, though.

TP: Do you plan to continue art as a hobby or make it a career?

LL: Yes, I plan on continuing my art career as a character designer and illustrator. Yay!

Image Courtesy of   Luigi Lucarelli

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