Leo Natsume, Creative Designer

Introduction

In the dynamic realm of digital art, the journey of artists often weaves through unique experiences and unexpected beginnings. 

In this interview, we delve into the narrative of Leo Natsume, a digital artist whose passion ignited at the intersection of childhood triumph and artistic curiosity. From humble mouse-drawn beginnings to the vibrant landscapes of 3D design, their story is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and inspiration. 

Let’s unravel the tale behind the pixels and discover the vivid hues that paint the canvas of their artistic evolution.

Background and Inspiration

• Can you tell us a bit about your journey into digital art?

I started working with digital art when I was 16 years old. It was a curious fact, because the first computer I had was because I won it in a drawing contest when I was still a child, in a state school competition in Brazil. At the time, I still drew with the mouse, the computer was old, so I didn’t have Photoshop or similar. After about 3 years, I bought a Wacom Bamboo to draw digitally. And it all started here!

• What inspired you to become a digital artist?

I used the Deviantart website a lot! There I saw incredible artists like Jason Chan, Artgerm and Genzoman! They really inspired me to learn digital painting and composition. Before entering the digital universe, I had been drawing since I was 5 years old, and this gave me a good drawing structure to enter digital art.

• Who are some of your artistic influences and favorite artists (digital or otherwise)?

I currently have many references from artists who work with 3d and 2d. Artists like Peter Tarka, MadebystudioJQ, Sebastian Curi, Alberto Mielgo, among many others!

Creative Process

• Could you describe your typical creative process from idea to completion?

I usually have a well-defined workflow before starting projects with my clients. It all starts with the briefing. After receiving the details of what needs to be done in the project, I divide the project into 2 stages: 2d and 3d. In stage 2d, this is where I make sketches and present ideas, compositions and colors. This step will give direction to what will be done in 3D later. After the 2D sketches are approved, I do the 3D modeling, texturing, rigging, animation and rendering work.

• Do you have any favorite software, tools, or techniques that you rely on in your work?

I would say Blender 3D, Wacom intuos and my Airpods Max headphone to listen to music while I work!

• How do you stay motivated and overcome creative blocks?

I think always looking for new inspiration is the key to avoiding creative blocks. Always viewing images, animations or films that are different from your usual ones helps a lot to stay motivated and seek new results in your work.

Style and Themes

• Many digital artists have a unique style. How would you describe your artistic style and the themes you often explore in your work?

I would say I don’t have a single style for my digital art. I like exploring different techniques and looks. As I like to learn different techniques, this favors not having a unique style. This is good, because I can handle different projects for different clients and with new dynamics.

I like to experiment and have versatility in motion, 2d, 3d, illustration, animation and even UI design.

Regarding themes, I often have references from anime/manga, but also minimalism, bauhaus, technology and even surrealism! The references are very different from each other.

• Is there a recurring message or story you try to convey through your designs?

Yes! I believe that gender diversity of characters, inclusion, accessibility and above all bring a positive vibe to projects!

Playbook x Leo Natsume NFT Limited Collection ‘Let’s talk about Feelings’

• Let’s dive into a specific project of yours. Can you share some details of the NFT Limited Collection ‘Let’s talk about Feelings’?

This is a project done in partnership with Playbook, a company from San Francisco/California that developed a platform for sharing, creating and organizing digital files.

They contacted me to create an exclusive collection of NFTs, which was giveaway to platform members.

In this project, I had complete creative freedom to choose the theme and create the characters of my choice, always bringing authenticity.

• What is the story behind this project?

For this project, I looked for references in Anime Style. For this collection, the idea was to bring the characters’ feelings to something more material/physical. That it was possible to feel the character through what is printed on their faces. Therefore, the use of portrait format.

So we have themes such as social anxiety, fury, deep adrenaline, emotional support, and others. It’s a very colorful work, but also emotional.

• Can you describe the key elements and techniques used in this project?

The key element was maintaining the visual identity to have a collection. Using a good color palette and consistent characters was also important.

The techniques were: 2d sketches first, and then blender to do the modeling, texturing and 3d rendering.

Challenges and Achievements

• Every artist faces challenges. Can you tell us about a specific artistic challenge you’ve overcome and how you did it?

I believe that each new project is a big challenge. But one challenge I had was learning 3D. As a teenager, I already liked 3D design, but my computer was casual and I couldn’t install heavy software. So what I did was study 3D, modeling and digital sculpture through tutorials. I wrote down everything I learned. Until in 2020, I decided to enter the world of 3D design, but this time I had a professional computer! So everything I had learned years ago, I was able to put into practice recently.

• What’s been one of your most significant achievements or milestones in your artistic journey?

Despite receiving many international design awards, the most significant achievement was being able to work with brands that I love. I had the pleasure of collaborating with Apple, Google, Nike, Microsoft, among others. This was the most incredible thing! Knowing that my design and art is reaching millions of people.

Advice for Aspiring Artists

• What advice do you have for aspiring digital artists just starting their creative journey?

I would tell them to study the basic concepts regardless of what they are studying. Start at the beginning, without skipping steps. Today we have artificial intelligence tools that generate images and videos. But having knowledge of the principles of design or art will make all the difference in the long run.

• How do you balance your artistic pursuits with other aspects of life, like work and family?

I have a very balanced life. I have a well-defined work and leisure schedule. I like exercising, running, playing games, and eating healthy (made by myself). Organizing my studies and setting goals are very important for me too.

Future Goals

• What are your future artistic goals, or is there a particular project or theme you’d like to explore in the future?

I plan to continue evolving my design processes – conceptually and technically – and continue working as a freelancer.

I’m also planning my new website and portfolio to launch in early 2024, along with my new visual identity.

• Do you have any upcoming exhibitions, collaborations, or projects you’d like to share with your audience?

I have a lot of projects in the works that are under the seal of NDAs. But what I can say is that new projects are coming, and I will share them as soon as possible!

Images

Could you provide a few images or visuals from your projects to showcase in the interview? (Include captions if needed)

Yes!

Conclusion

As we conclude this insightful interview, we’ve navigated through the vivid chapters of a digital artist’s odyssey—from the early days of mouse-drawn creations to the sophisticated realms of 3D design.

The fusion of inspiration from renowned artists, a diverse exploration of styles and themes, and the triumph over challenges has defined their unique artistic fingerprint.

The journey has not only been about personal growth but also marked by collaborations with global brands and the creation of an exclusive NFT collection. Looking ahead, the artist envisions a future marked by continual evolution, conceptual exploration, and the unveiling of exciting projects. 

Their story stands as a beacon for aspiring artists, reminding us that every pixel tells a story, and every stroke is a step towards artistic brilliance.

To stay updated on his upcoming exhibitions, collaborations, and projects, make sure to connect with Leo on Instagram and don’t forget to visit his website for an immersive experience.