Interview: E.M. Gist

Created on Saturday, 16 April 2011 01:00

Last Updated on Friday, 09 March 2012 23:09

Written by Del Muerto

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E.M. Gist- The cliche is to say I have drawn my whole life, which is true, but the first time I remember actually sitting down and saying "I am going to draw now." I was about 10 years old.  I had just purchased the Giant-Sized X-Men Annual #9 illustrated by Arthur Adams, and just about flipped out.  I absolutely had to learn to draw like Mr. Adams.  The transition to the macabre was much later.  I was very ignorant about art as a kid, if I didn't see it drawn I didn't think you were supposed to draw it.  Later on (high school-ish) I said "Hey, I like drawing, and I like horror.  Lets do this thing"  Needless to say, my first portfolio pieces were horror or comic illustrations (or my blending of the two).

Del Muerto- Your artwork has a wonderful approach to storytelling and creating a moment that sets the imagination on fire. I often look at it and wonder what the precursor was or even what the outcome will be. Can you tell me more about how you develop these pieces and what your approach is to create such dramatic moments in time?

E.M. Gist- I know it sounds cryptic, but I am never sure where the seed of the idea comes from.  When it is right it is just there, but once I have the idea I have to beat it into shape through lots of rough sketches.  As you pointed out though the key is finding that perfect moment, giving the viewer just enough to conjure the emotion you are trying to elicit, but not giving away too much.

Del Muerto- You can definitely see the correlation between your work and your inspirations. I think your knack for illustrating the characters as well as their story in a still image is what really makes your work stand out. E.M, You have run the gamut of artistry that many dream of. With designing for the gaming industry to creating some beautiful work for DC comics, Wizards of the Coast and even Blizzard Entertainment. What can you tell us about creating for some high caliber clients?

E.M. Gist- The only main difference is they pay more, so they expect more input.  From my point of view it isn't too much different, my main goal is always first and foremost to create to best image I can regardless of client.

Del Muerto- What are some Horror movie staples that we may find in your collection?

E.M. Gist- Alien, The Thing, all the Universal Horror movies, Nightmare on Elm Street, Halloween I & II, Psycho, Dementia 13, Exorcist, Near Dark, Twitch of the Death Nerve.  This could go on and on, I have a collection that is probably 500+ strong, and most are horror movies.

 Del Muerto- You trained your craft at the Watts Atelier of the Arts in Encinitas, California and were then offered a job to teach there. How neat was it to know that they respected your talent enough to let you teach their  future artists?

E.M. Gist- It was tremendously flattering, not to mention a huge turning point in my life.  It allowed me the chance to transition into freelance illustration, as well as pass on the information and opportunities the school gave me.  Not to mention I met my wife there.

Del Muerto- You have created a very wonderful resource for artists in your Blog. Anyone can access your experience on materials, supplies, books you recommend and some great techniques in painting and drawing. I have to ask, why is this great resource free? and has teaching art always been a passion?

E.M. Gist- It is free because I feel there are so many young artists out there that do not have access to solid fundamental information on art.  I will not lie though, I honestly believe that once they get a taste of what is offered at the Atelier they will want to come and study with me and my peers (if they have the means).  The answer to the second part of your question is Yes. I have always enjoyed sharing my information and experience with others.  In fact I just enjoy the exchange of experiences, and the camaraderie that comes with it.

E.M. Gist- This is a difficult one to answer.  I have seen a growth personally, because my work is getting better, and I am getting better exposure.  Collectors of horror art seem to be much more loyal and hardcore.  I sell the majority of my horror work to three of four collectors, while I rarely sell more than one fantasy piece to a collector.  The nice thing about the horror genre, is that even when it is not in vogue the loyalists are still out there and hungry for more.

Del Muerto- What are some of your favorite Horror characters and any plans on some Originals done in their likeness?

E.M. Gist- I love any of Jack Pierce's designs, as well as Hellboy, Michael Myers, Freddy.  I have a piece I have been itching to start based on Bela Lugosi, as well as a few others.  A friend of mine (Dug Nation) and I have a postcard set of sketches we are planning on putting together for some horror cons this year.  It will feature our own redesigns of many of the classic monsters.

Del Muerto- What are some of your plans outside of the painting realm for the future?

E.M. Gist- I am writing an art instruction book, and believe it or not a children's book.  Don't worry I am not going soft, it will be based on Samhain.

Del Muerto- An art instruction book would be a must have for any artist and I look forward to adding that to the Del Muerto collection. However, I am very intrigued about the Children's book on Samhain. I will definitely be looking forward to that release.

E.M. Gist- I started looking around for a good horror phpbb to converse with like minded folks, and gather information on various horror cons. FDTC seem like one of the best.

 Del Muerto- Well, Thanks again Mr. Gist it has been a pleasure of mine and the Dusker Nation's to have you on our phpbb, as well as our website. We all look forward to your future endeavors and hope to see you at a convention real soon.

Follow up on E.M. Gist with his website "http://www.erikgist.com" as well as his superbly informative blog "http://deadoftheday.blogspot.com/".

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