Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe Willey.
Hi Joe, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am originally from the Eastern Shore of Maryland. I graduated from MICA in the early 90s with a degree in Visual Communications.
I trained as a graphic designer at MICA but always was interested in illustration. Poster design and illustrated books were always an inspiration. The graphic design degree was crucial because it opened the door to becoming an art director in a few years. I began writing; ad copy at first but eventually grew into a creative director role that oversaw overall concepts. Since then, I have worked as a marketing and communications director for non-profit ministry organizations. But I missed drawing, painting, and illustration.
As well as being a marketing and communications director, I freelance as an illustrator and writer. My wife and I recently finished the manuscript of our first illustrated book. We are in the process of finding a publisher. I have started my second. I like to work on book projects more than anything else, except being outside. Maybe it is because that is where I paint landscapes.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There are always struggles to do what you would like to do. Sometimes you make things difficult by not focusing on what you want. Other times there are roadblocks thrown up by others or situations. But I think it is better to struggle for something you want.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I like sketchbooks, recording fleeting moments. I work in ink and watercolor. I work that way because I can take a sketchbook, pen, and watercolor kit anywhere and paint from life.
I always want a finished illustration to have energy and look alive—like a snapshot. Being outside inspires me. I like animals, birds, plants. My sketchbooks have pages of drawings and paintings of them. I also started labeling them with their scientific names. It was a way to remember.
What makes you happy?
I am happy to spend time with my wife and children. We have four boys who are still in the home, and we homeschool, so there is always something to talk about, listen to, read, or draw.
Contact Info:
- Email: joe@joewilley.net
- Website: https://www.joewilley.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joewilleycreative/
Credit by Nate Willey
