Colt Baudoux is an uber nerd hailing from Pittsburgh, PA. He began his journey as an artist in his youth, and is finally taking the leap into the world of the professional artist. With a background in graphic design from ITT Tech, Colt’s work has focused on poster designs, tattoo art and his work has been featured in a music video by heavy metal band, Avenged Sevenfold. His work gravitates to the world of capes and masks because of his love for those who would sacrifice themselves for the sake of others. Colt’s preferred medium is graphite pencil, with an exploration into color from time to time. Find him on Twitter and Instagram at @coltbaudoux.

Interview

One question I always like to ask: What are you working on now?

I’m always working on about 25 different things at once. If I get annoyed or unmotivated on one drawing I can go to a different one that may just spark my interest enough to just finish it, and then go back to another one I was working on. I say this to anyone doing writing, drawing, or any type of work: work on multiple projects at once. If you get frustrated, you can always go back to it later when your head is clear.

Much of your art focuses on characters from comic books. What initially drew you to this genre?

The love of the characters and what they mean to people. It’s inspiring to hear how a character or set of characters influences or helps people with their everyday lives. Sure, it’s just a fictional character—but it means so much to people.

Is there a piece that you’re most proud of? Why?

My Marilyn Manson piece! I did it during my tattoo apprenticeship and it was the first piece I did without getting yelled at about how much it sucked.

You’re a self-taught artist. Has this been productive? Do you think in order to be successful or to hone your craft you need something like a BFA or MFA?

No. You just need a strong mind and to listen to the people who love your art. I learned from many artists. You just need to learn from art that inspires you. Don’t copy their style; do you and then use their style to complement yours.

What is absolutely essential for you to have when drawing/making art? Anything you couldn’t live without?

A white gel pen. Ha! Who would have thought the middle-school craze would be so vital now?

Any advice for aspiring artists?

Keep making art. Any kind of art. Don’t give up. If you see something that motivates you or you have an idea, take notes, and draw that crazy thing in your head. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just jot it down. If you get frustrated, walk away and come back. Make sure you have multiple muses and ways of finding your peace, but just come back to it. When you are finished with that frustrating piece, you’ll be more proud of it.

How do you know when a work is finished?

Art is never finished! That is a very artist answer, but also true. There’s always something that can be touched up, or darkened, or lightened. In my mind, none of my art is finished.

What can the avid Colt Baudoux fan look forward to?

I have a truckload of work coming soon. I’m working on about 25 different pieces right now, from posters to comic book covers, for #inktober. I wish I had finished more by now but they are on the way! I think a lot of people will love this Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles piece I’m working on! It’s something to behold.

Also come see me at my booth at Steel City Con in Pittsburgh December 7-9!

Where can we find your work online?

You can find me on Instagram, @coltbaudoux. I post most of my art there. Follow me!