Interview With A Pixel Artist Part 5: dis_tract

Who are you? Where are you based?

My name is Anthony and I reside in Florida.

When and why did you first start making your art?

I started making 8 bit art about I would say almost 10 years ago. The first one I created was a blue mushroom for a friend as a going away present. After I made a few Final Fantasy pieces my other friend purchased.

Do you remember the first piece you made?

Yes, Blue Mushroom from Mario.

What's the biggest piece you've ever made?

I made a Wreck It Ralph, which was made of 2 Inch cubes.

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What is your art workspace like?

Usually a table. I am not too picky.

What are the tools of your trade?

My tools would be acrylic paint, Table end, some clamps, and a straight edge.

hat's the most time you've spent on a project?

Most recently it was the Grim Reaper from Castlevania, but the piece that took a hot minute was a Zelda piece I made and traded for tattoos, my friend happened to be a great Tattoo artist.

Can you talk us through your creative process? How do you go about planning and creating a piece?

I like to look up 8 bit art and depends on my mood, for example, a few pieces I made this last year have been a tad dark. Also asking others what they might want to see created. That way its not just things I like. When I find one that I am going to make I draw it on graph paper with colored pencils. Count the overall pieces and colors.

What are the most common questions you get asked about your art?

What are they made of, how long it takes. Those are usually the most common questions asked.

Have you had any art-related disasters?

Yes a few have broken to my dismay… One or two have been broken while setting up at a Comic Con, so it was frustrating.

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Do you have a dream project you'd love to make, but just can't justify yet?

I have one I want to do and install it somewhere. I would say the great wave and put it in a conspicuous place so people would see it.

What was your most recent project?

My most recent project is for my wife actually. She wants the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Happy wife, happy life.

What are your favourite experiences you've had as a result of your art?

The excitement people have when they ask for a commission and when it is done and delivered. I made a Mega Man out of one inch blocks for someone, but instead of the default colors I used wood stains. I like when people want something that I have not made, I like a good challenge.

Do you have any projects in progress or in the pipeline right now?

I have found a few things one is the Turtles, but I have another idea for a TMNT, which should be getting done soon.

Do you sell your art? If so, how can people find it?

I do, I have/had an Etsy and sold a few there, but honestly on Instagram. It is a mix and I do commissions or if I have one in stock. Everything I have ever made is on IG.

How can people find you online? Drop your social media handles, websites etc...

@dis_tract on IG. I have what I have made on there. I am thinking of making another account, just for my art.