Maxwell Tilse - I Fell In Love With Art When I Was A Little Boy (Illustrator & Travel Sketcher)

Art plays a major role in society. It permeates through all walks of life and every profession. Not only is it our expression as creative individuals, but also our record and preservation of collective culture and histories.

1. Tell us about your background and journey.

I'm a Sydney born artist, raised and educated in Australia. After one year of studying Law at University, I dropped out to travel. Eventually meeting and falling in love with a girl who convinced me to move to London.

From there I started to take my drawing seriously. I have no education in art, so I'm thankful to the bustling London life and historical architecture for all my initial inspiration. 

Working in bars and restaurants, all the while drawing and posting to my Instagram. Over the years my drawings began to sell and slowly but surely, I was able to make illustration my full-time profession.


2. How and when did you realize your passion for visual arts?

I fell in love with art when I was a little boy. Through the French comic books, Asterix & Tintin. I loved the vibrant and humorous illustrations, filled with adventure and a love of travel. 

These books inspired me to draw when I was a boy but it was when I was in my early 20s, backpacking through Europe, that I began to pursue art professionally.


3. What role does the artist have in society?

Naturally, art plays a major role in society. It permeates through all walks of life and every profession. Not only is it our expression as creative individuals, but also our record and preservation of collective culture and histories.

The artist can play a variety of roles, depending on their artistic style. The artist is society's culture.


4. Describe your favourite visual effect from a movie. Why do you like it?

I'm a sucker for a good long take. No cuts, no edits, just a beautiful continuous shot. Movies like Birdman (2014), Russian Ark (2002) or Victoria (2015) for example. It's a testament to the skill of the actors, crew and cinematographers. Almost like combining theatre with cinema. Love it!


5. What do you think is the best method to review visuals for corrections? And What is your favourite software to work with?

To be completely honest with you I have no idea. I'm not a graphic designer. I have no training with any software nor do I have any experience working with it. My art is entirely hand-drawn. I have no way of correcting my visuals without completely redrawing the entire illustration from scratch. 

As a result, I must work carefully and with precision. Advice to all budding artists; don't be afraid to take chances and jump straight into a new piece. Many of my drawings don't work out and I'm forced to start again. But that is how I learn and progress as an artist. No visual corrections, just a new drawing.


6. What is the one piece of advice that you would give to aspiring visual artists?

Create as much as you can. Don't be dismayed by other artists, rather use them for inspiration. Focus on what interests you the most and continue practising with patience and diligence. You'll get there in the end. 

It can seem rather daunting, especially when it comes to making money. (An unfortunate reality we all have to face). But don't give up, keep finding inspiration and keep creating.


- Maxwell Tilse (Freelance Illustrator & Travel Sketcher)

Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/maxwellillustration
Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/maxwellillustration/


Interviewed By Akshaya Rathinavadivel