Tell us a little about yourself?
I’m an artist who has only recently been creating art full time. Art as a career was not something I had around me as a child- and artists didn’t come from my part of the world. I played footy as a kid, and entered a trade when I left school- as was expected. I’ve always drawn and painted, but last year in 2021 I got a heart condition called Endocarditis, which very nearly ended me. Thankfully I'm still here- but was told I wouldn’t be able to do my trade job any longer. I returned to art when I was recovering at home, as a source of comfort, therapy and to starve of boredom as my body healed. The response I received for my art was bolstering. Eventually I had to make a decision, find a desk job in accordance with the doctors orders, or commit fully to art. I committed fully and now my art has opened amazing doors for me.

What’s your favorite drink?
A can of coca-cola accompanies me as I paint most days, I sip on it in frustration when I can’t get my ideas out, and congratulate myself with one when I get it right.

What inspired you to start painting/drawing?
I was (and still am) a big fan of comic books and comic designs. The work of Stan Lee has inspired countless creatives- including myself. Comic designs usage of blocked, vibrant primary colours is evident in my work now. I love mixing these bold powerful colours, whilst giving them softer curves and edges, to create a balanced piece.

What advice would you give other artists/creatives starting out?

Be inspired by what others are doing, but not deflated by what others are doing. Each person has a unique artistic expression, which you can learn to identify and enhance.

The other piece of advice I have is a very blunt saying from Ernest Hemingway- “The first draft of anything is shit”.

You can read more about Charlie Nanopolous here.