Meeting Chris Howker

Chris Howker and I had arranged a time best suited for him, for to visit Uni so we could have a sit down and talk over all things illustration.

On researching Chris, I found his website.. http://www.howks.co.uk/

It quickly became apparent that I had encountered Chris' work before and just not realised it.

Two and a half years ago, on applying to join the course, I was invited to attend the end of year graduates exhibition, 

After visiting I left with a feeling excitement, eagerness and of all the business cards and information made available to the exhibitions viewers, this.. 

                                     A postcard with Chris Howkers Boxing Lightbulb image

So I had seen Chris' Graduation exhibition and due to personal taste it was one of the exhibitions I was more drawn toward.

So, on arriving Chris sat down and we began chatting, I found him easy to talk to, and very down to earth, and as for willingness to help, he came with a sack full of books he thought I might find useful for my dissertation, in the rain, on a motorbike. 

We discussed lots of things from comic books, graffiti and street art as well as things like studio spaces.

Chris had seen a selection of my work before, an impromptu portfolio visit if you like.

My work is usually met with a certain amount of positivity, a level I had subconsciously began to take for granted it would seem.

As I read Chris' feedback, my initial reaction was to jump straight on the defensive, defend the integrity of my work.

After a second read through, the defense became acceptance. 

I couldn't really argue with the opinions of an established practitioner.

It was a new reaction to my work although complimentary, Chris questioned the integrity of my work, yes it is aesthetically pleasing he said but its a popular style, questioning my work, asking what does it mean?

The question that hit home the most was when Chris asked me whether the people who buy my art work are buying just that, my artwork or are they in fact just buying a pretty picture of their favourite icon?

An almost rude awakening came from this encounter, my work lacked meaning and was quite generic, it needs to stand out and to have a little meat on its proverbial bones, some fat for the viewer to chew over.

Meeting a professional and taking on board what he said has added another dimension to my working method, meaning.

How can I make my work mean something? aim it at a specific audience and let your work speak to them.

Further examples of Chris' work... 

Hand drawn Image for the 'May the  4th' exhibition in Leeds

Chris Howkers 'Fishtank' submission

So a thank you to the teaching staff for putting me in touch with my first professional contact, and coercing evolution into my work. 

Chris has left the door open for future contact, and I now understand the importance of opening as many doors as possible.

That importance there is knowledge behind everyone you manage to open.