Brian Gaston, A student, artist, creative thinker & dreamer from Atlanta, Ga, U.S.A @brigaston98

What was the situation in which this photo was taken?

I had a discussion earlier with one of my friends about bullying and haters, we were saying how you shouldn’t let outside negativity get in the way of your life. So with that in mind I decided to post that pic. Just turn the other cheek and keep positive!

Could you tell us something about what you do?

I am currently attending the University of Georgia for a major in Art and minor in Film Studies. I hope to develop skills in animation and work my way into the film or entrainment industry. Besides drawing, in my spare time I also enjoy acting and have already had the great opportunity to work on a few movies in Atlanta.

How did you first become interested in the arts?

Whether it be art, film, fashion, modeling, I have always been drawn to the creative spectrum of the world. I love the idea of being evolved in my work and creating something out of nothing. I started drawing when I was a toddler and by 5th grade I knew I wanted to pursue a career in art.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I enjoy the spontaneity of what I do. Every day presents a chance to be inspired by the life around me. I never know what an average day will bring. The way you live is limited by the extent of your imagination. If you dream big, then big things will happen.

What are you working on at the moment?

Currently I am focused on my artwork. Working on different personal projects while balancing school work. I am also working on building my Instagram page which is dedicated to my creative Selfies and photography. I love the world of modeling, and although am not currently signed to any agency, this is my way of branding and expressing myself separate from my other Instagram page.

What are the challenges in what you do, and how do you overcome them?

The biggest challenge is finding a way to balance everything. Sometimes I get overwhelmed trying to work on private commissions, school work, and my own personal endeavors; however, I find it is a matter of knowing where to place your time and figuring out what is more important in the moment. I am a believer in God and his blessings and many times turning to him helps me get through my rough patches.

Could you describe your personal style?

I think my personal style is fun yet relatable. My art style is geared towards cartoons and wackiness, but I have also gotten into doing portraits and am constantly learning new techniques and gaining knowledge about myself in school. I am only 19 yo so I feel I have time to grow and develop into a style that is all my own.

What is your present state of mind?

My present state of mind is hopeful and optimistic. I am a dreamer at heart and have big plans for my life. I hope to one day find my way into the entertainment industry working as an animator for a company like Pixar or Disney or maybe own my own creation company. I wouldn’t mind continuing to act on the side maybe eventually finding my big break.

What music are you listening to at the moment?

I am listening to a little of everything at the moment. When I am drawing in my room, I mainly like to listen to chill music like Fleet Foxes or music from my favorite band, Coldplay.

Which artists or designers inspire you?

I am inspired by the art from childhood shows I used to watch. I grew up watching old cartoons like The Rugrats, Hey Arnold!, and even Tom and Jerry. The artist style and story telling in these shows are what lead to my interest in art and creation.

What is the purpose of art, in your view?

To me, art is meant to illuminate the mind and entertain on a local or global scale. I like to live by my own little motto that “Art gives the opportunity to: Change, create, and inspire.”

How do you spend your free time?

I spend my free time drawing, listening to music, and hanging with the amazing circle of friends I have built around me.