Artist Randy Martinez IG @randymartinez40 Photographer Denise Vasquez IG @DeniseVasquezOfficial
Who or what inspired you to want to become an artist?
I was first inspired by my parents, who were both artists. But, I think I first started to think about art as a career or lifestyle when I became obsessed with MAD magazine, Cartoons, movies, and comic books. Those things really got me excited about making art and made me start to dream about doing those things one day.
How long have you been working as a professional artist?
My first paying gigs, in art, started when I was around 12-13. I used to draw Caricatures at fairs and festivals, along side my Dad, who was a master caricaturist. It was a bit of a novelty at first ( “Hey, look at the kid drawing” ), but I got pretty good, pretty fast. From there I would pick up all kinds of art jobs, which was a great way to learn different skills and how to use virtually every art material. I started my serious career, (serious meaning I suddenly had rent to pay), while I was in College. I started to find a focus on what I wanted to do, art wise, and how I could make my skills marketable. It’s been a journey ever since.
Who have you done work for?
As an illustrator, you take on so many jobs from different clients of all kinds. But to name a few your readers will be familiar with I’ve worked extensively with Lucasfilm Ltd, Marvel, DC Comics, Topps Trading Cards, and Stern Pinball.
Do you have a favorite project you’ve worked on?
More recently in my career I have started to illustrate for Stern Pinball Machines. It’s a unique experience because of the team aspect of bringing a pinball machine to reality. There is a sound guy, a lights guy, the game designer, etc. and me ( the artist). We all work together so the game comes out looking great, cohesively. I just really really love the challenges and the rare experience ( with art) to work with a team! Look for Star Wars:Comics, and the Mandalorian pinball machines! Those feature my art work exclusively!
Are you working on anything new that you are able to talk about?
One of the challenges of working with famous companies is, often the art is created months to a year before its release. Usually, I cannot say or hint at anything until there is an official press release. So yes, I am always working on something new and exciting, but I can’t reveal anything right now. But stay tuned!
What are you looking forward to in 2024?
Gotta be careful how I answer this… haha, Let’s just say I can’t legally talk about a few projects set to release this year. Beyond that, I am looking forward to getting back out to conventions and art shows. It’s the best place to meet fans, and to meet new clients.
Any advice for aspiring artists?
The greatest advice I can give any artist is to be cool to everyone you meet. You never know who you might be talking to, or who you aren’t talking to (if your being a bump a log).
I can’t tell you how many jobs I have gotten and how many paintings I’ve sold just by saying “ hi” to someone. I know, it’s hard. Listen, I had a hell of a time when I started my career. I realized whether it’s trying to find art jobs, or trying to sell art in a gallery, there was no way around having to talk to people. No joke, I went as far as going to hypnotherapy. I did what ever I had to do to make myself better socially. I’ll tell you what, besides the benefits (of learning to be social) in my career… my life just became more fun in general.
Where can people find you online?
My website is:
My social media (on all platforms) is:
@RandyMartinez40
Anything else you’d like to add?
Yes, the only way you can make art WRONG, is if you aren’t having fun!
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