As an illustrator, the most challenging project that I worked on was my first set for Topps. I illustrated 116 sketch cards on the Indiana Jones Masterpieces set. This was my first set for Topps, and I didn't have much time. I felt I had to prove myself to everyone. I didn't want to disappoint Topps, the fans, my mentors, or myself! It was a challenge, but a good challenge. I stayed focused on the project, and delivered artwork I was really happy with and I made the deadline! I was very pleased with the outcome and the response has been wonderful.
The Topps Star Wars Galaxy RED Target Exclusive sketch cards is my first official Star Wars-related project. I illustrated a total of 50 sketch cards for this set. Being a proud woman and a Star Wars fan, I wanted to do something special. I felt compelled to have all of my illustrations feature the women of the Star Wars universe. Each card I illustrated on this set is a one-of-a-kind -- there are no duplicates. I plan on auctioning a couple of my return cards on eBay and donating a percentage to charity.
What was the most rewarding Star Wars project you worked?
Helping Randy Martinez with the Star Wars Celebration Europe piece. He came up with the brilliant idea of doing "Sgt. Lucas" like the cover of the Beatles Sgt Peppers album, except he would incorporate the Star Wars universe. I told him how I thought the idea was perfect as it was Star Wars 30th and Sgt Peppers 40th Anniversary. Randy wanted to stay true to the original Sgt. Peppers concept so he decided that he would build his piece like the artist did for the album cover. He asked for my help, so being a big fan of the Beatles and Star Wars, I was totally in!
We had no clue where to begin, nor had we ever built something like this, but we were determined to get it done in under two months, as that was the deadline. We began brainstorming and Randy's mother, Kay Zetlmaier (another fantastic artist), joined in the fun and offered some great suggestions on where to begin and what tools we needed. We used Star Wars toys, plastic flowers, fake plants, foam core, and spray paint -- it was as if this project took on a life of its own! Cutting wood and fake flowers, wrapping plants, gluing toys and then watching Randy with such precision and continuity bring it all together! Wow! Everything fit and came together so smoothly. This was such a fantastic lesson in trusting your imagination and instincts, learning to take risks, and just going for it. The result was absolutely incredible & the response to this piece to date has been amazing. I am proud to have been a part of this project.
Which Star Wars character is your favorite to draw?
I really enjoy drawing Ahsoka. I am so excited about her addition to the Star Wars universe, not only because she's female, but because of all the fantastic characteristics she has. I love her eyes! She's very unique looking and very beautiful in her own way. She's young, and has a lot to learn, but she's strong, caring, very determined and sometimes underestimated. She kind of reminds me of me.
What is your process from beginning to end for an assignment?
I brainstorm. I write down ideas. Depending on the project, I'll ask myself specific questions and sometimes make an outline. Are there characters involved? Who are the characters? Is there a theme? Once my questions are answered, I'm usually on my way from idea, concept to design and completion of the project.
How is it like meeting the fans and fellow artists?
The fans are so passionate, so loyal, so appreciative and supportive! The fans keep the artists dreams alive, just as much as the artists. My favorite convention I attended to date was Star Wars Celebration Japan. The special unity between everyone -- the actors, artists, 501st, fans, and crew -- was like no other convention I have experienced. Perhaps it was the "American bond," being in a foreign country, or perhaps it was the Star Wars bond -- whatever it was, it was amazing. My favorite moment was one night we ventured to a Japanese restaurant near the convention center. The entire restaurant was filled with Star Wars Artists, Lucasfilm employees, fans, convention center crew, musicians and actors. We took over the entire restaurant. The in walks Anthony Daniels wandering about, alone, peeking in to see what was happening. I offer him some of my hot sake. I ask the waiter for an extra cup and poured him some sake. He loved my hospitality and ended up hanging out with all of us the entire night!
You also do some interesting art-inspired charity work with WO+MEN 4 A CAUSE. What is it about?
I am the founder of WO+MEN 4 A CAUSE -- a community I created where I strive to help make a difference utilizing my art and music to spread awareness, share information and help those in need. I've performed quite extensively, worldwide, especially for festivals, charity events and fundraisers.
What advice do you have for budding artists?
Believe in yourself. Don't give up. Stay true to who you are. Take pride in who you are, what makes you unique and in what you are creating. Study your craft and other artists. Work hard, educate yourself and practice, practice, practice! Go to as many conventions as you can. If you think you can't afford it, volunteer. Share your work, network, and be informed about your industry. Know who's who. Remembering names really gets you noticed. Be nice to everyone you meet -- you never know who you're talking to! Utilize the Internet and join the boards. Find a mentor, do an internship, or work at an art store. I worked at Blick Art Materials in Los Angeles and learned a great deal about products, techniques and I met all the right people, including Randy Martinez.
Find out more about Vasquez and her work on her site: Denisevasquez.com.
