Artist Spotlight: Julien Deragon

Let's jump in; it's my pleasure to have collaborated with the wonderous Julien Deragon. Julien is a Canadian animator and illustrator who works on blockbuster movies and tv shows whilst also painting murals. Esther and I are so lucky to have nabbed a collab.

When digging into Julian's folio of work, you can see the meticulous details that he uncovers; these details give his work a uniqueness that instantly makes them recognisable. Whilst also leaving me sitting waiting to see more, his work is captivating and enhances the story being told in so many ways.

Today we are lucky enough to have an interview with Julien, so let's get into it without further delay.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I'm JULIEN DERAGON an illustrator and a motion picture animator based in Montreal. I've always had a great interest in comics and TV cartoons. When I started my studies, I initially wanted to work in 2D animation, but I discovered 3D animation: I was immediately converted! Today, I am working in 3D animation for an animation studio in Montreal, specifically for full-length films. I like to illustrate the malicious side of my characters because this raises more extensive content of their story. I need, therefore, to create art because I want to physically see what I have in my mind. My emotions and feelings but also my simple and spontaneous ideas.

2. How do you get into your creative zone?

The best way to get my creative juice going is by blasting on some music.

3. When in the flow, what does your process look like?

There are two different approaches; sometimes, I have a very clear idea, and it's a very straightforward approach. Often, it's more improvised; I doodle and scribble shapes until something takes form. I mainly use Procreate nowadays to do my illustrations and 2d animations.

4. Tell us about your Esther piece?

The main message is when everything seems hopeless; there's always a way out!

5. What are you most excited about in web3?

So far, it's to be able to reach out and create a community that spans internationally. I also enjoy having an international reach to show my artwork and have people participate in my shenanigans!

6. In the web3 space, what's the best piece of advice you've received?

Just focus on your work and not on the currency of its value. Primarily to remember to have fun with it.

7. What's the most significant learning experience you've had in web3?

Use Twitter, I never had Twitter before January 2022

I wanted to end by taking a moment to thank Julian for this dope collab, Esther and I love the piece and are thrilled to have gotten to work together. For anyone wanting to learn more about Julien, connect with him here.