Artist Interview-Dekimbe Pt. 2
We LOVE Manga at FLICK!
As you know we collaborated with the super-strong diverse MANGA anthology giants, Saturday AM to create their deck too! but how did you fall in LOVE with Manga? 💜
- It’s probably because anime was a huge part of my childhood that when I discovered that anime is based on manga I was instantly hooked, dead on the spot, petrified by the gaze of the magnificent.. argh… you get the point.
Has drawing in a Manga style always worked for you? Did you consider any other styles? 🎨
- I’ve drawn other stuff that wasn’t manga-ish or related to Japanese anime style. The genre already has so much stuff going on inside its sovereignty that the FOMO on other styles just doesn’t get to me anymore.
How are you getting on with your new art tools from MAM ’21?
- I’m having a blast.
How HARD was MAM ’21 REALLY!?
- It was hard, but looking back on it, the MAM tournament was like the Richard Parker to my Pi and I miss it.
Your R3 entry for FLICK was a firm favourite here!.. How difficult is it to draw themes outside your comfort zone? Or do you just apply the DKMB Studio magic!?
- It was the hardest, we were given like 4 and a half days to make a piece and I started drawing it on day 2, just ‘cos I didn't know what to do. I don't draw animals so, it was probably because of that too. So I did a “bahala na si Batman” move and just did it.
How tough is it to get your first commission?
- My very first actual paid commission came like a gift from the sky that I just had to pick up like how Light did to Ryuk’s death note. Getting the commission? Easy, but getting to that point where people would trust you and pay you for doing something was a journey from earth to the sky, from the land to hell and back again... you get the point.
Who is your biggest fan? 💚
- It’s Jane, I wanted to call her to confirm this but she’s probably busy writing my name alongside hers at the back of a notebook or something. But seriously, she’s the only person who never doubted me.
What art projects are you currently working on? ✍️
- Character sheets for clients and my manga. I just joined an activity where I'll be paired up with an author, it’s one of the things I'm looking forward to.
Do you have an art wish list of characters or projects you would love to be involved with?
- I mean, seeing a manga that I worked on to get an anime movie/series adaptation is probably one of the main quests most of the artists have on their lists. I don’t have a title in mind, but It could be my IP, or anybody’s that I genuinely care about.
Which is your favourite deck in FLICK and why? 🃄
- It’s Plants N Pixies. Love the characters and deck colours.
What gets you hyped?
- This sounds pretentious but, art. I guess.
Do you have an all-time favourite Manga character?
- Akira in Akira. He’s like 99.9% a McGuffin, but I like that kid so don’t judge.
If an alien landed from another planet which comic would you recommend to get them HOOKED on Manga?
- The Hotdog Prince
Who was your favourite Power Ranger?
- Tommy!
How do you keep improving your art? What’s the advice to aspiring artists?
- Every artist’s journey is different from another, but I think we all start by actually enjoying the process of making art. And you just learn as you go, you grow in art and most importantly, as a person.
Your drive to draw and improve is evident in your story and art. What do you think holds new artists back most?
- The craving for attention? I don't know.
Apart from FLICK, do you play video games? 🎮
- I do. I play Zelda - Breath of the Wild on my switch, 200+ hours in and still haven't, not even once gone to Ganon. I also play League of Legends on mobile sometimes.
What do you find the hardest thing to draw?
- Things I’ve never seen in the flesh.
What is next from DKMB Studio?
- That one-shot, Midnight Snack Klub, It’s gonna happen!
We are all routing for Dekimbe as he continues his Manga Mission! We will keep fans updated on his adventures.
In the meantime, check out March Art Madness 2022 currently entering the last few nail-biting rounds!
Good luck to all the entrants!
