Hi, I’m Mark, a Concept Artist and Illustrator. It’s currently May 2019 and here’s my story so far.

What is the best thing that I love about my work?

I love having a career which allows me to make use of my creativity every day; I love being able to help bring other peoples imagination and ideas to life, whilst still having a sense of creative freedom.

What is my idea of perfect happiness?

To be surrounded by a creative and caring environment, with people who support and push each other to achieve greatness in both skill and character (this applies to work as well as relationships). And whilst in this environment, I’m able to help contribute to a project that’s far bigger than just me, a project that is hopefully able to inspire many others.

What is my greatest fear?

To feel like I’m unable to (or lose the will to) grow and improve myself, in tangent to this, I fear no longer having goals or ambitions.

What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?

More often than not, I can’t help but focus on the negatives instead of the positives. This can be helpful for my work, but can sometimes cause issues in life.

Which living persons in my profession do i most admire?

There are too many to list them all (and it’s ever growing), they often have similar traits:

Passionate, hardworking, tenacious, dedicated, genuine, open, friendly

What is my greatest extravagance?

Anything that can benefit me; a nicer graphic tablet that works well, tutorials and mentorships to help me improve myself, pc parts for ease of life, nicer food that’s also better for your body, going on trips with friends for new experiences, etc.

On what occasion would I lie?

I try my best not to, but everybody lies. When I do, it’s usually to save time/long explanations or to not hurt someone’s feelings.

What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?

How difficult it is to break into the industry
(I’m still trying to get a studio job in which I’d be proud to say I work there).

When and where was I the happiest, in my work?

In general, when I’m able to help others using the skills that I’ve learnt; specifically, when I reach certain milestones of achievement: being able to draw/paint a decent portrait, getting my first freelance work, etc.

If I could, what would I change about myself?

Health issues (Which I’m always working on improving)
I’m also allergic to a lot of things which sucks

What is my greatest achievement in work?

For me, just being paid to do what I love is my greatest achievement.

What do the words, ‘The Financial Freedom to Create’, mean to me?

To be able to help work on any project that I find interesting for free, whether is be my own projects or someone else’s

Where would I most like to live?

Not 100% sure yet, need to travel a bit more to find out, but preferably somewhere warm.

What is my most treasured possession?

I don’t think I really have any treasured possessions; I try to not put too high a value on any materialistic things… maybe all my old sketchbooks?

What is my most marked characteristic?

My first name

What is my most inspirational location, in my city?

Museums; The British Museum, Natural history museum, National Gallery

What is my favourite place to eat and drink, in my city?

I like trying new places, but my favourites include Sushi and Pho

What books influenced my life and how?

Reading books like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson whilst growing up heavily influenced my imagination and creativity, pushing my interest with Fantastical and Mythological themes

Who are my favourite writers?

Unfortunately, I don’t read enough anymore to have any favourite writers. Do “The Art of” books count?

You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?

Depends how I die, heavy metal for a badass death, something calm and ambient for a peaceful one.

Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?

I’ve always respected characters (in both fiction and non-fiction) that work their arse off, training day in and day out, working hard as well as working smart, but at the same time are humble about it all. Characters that show hard work triumphs over raw talent.

Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?

“Above all else, be the Hero/Heroine in your own story, not the victim.” Other than that, all my close friends who help support me and I can learn things from. As well as those who have honed their skills and share their knowledge and story online.

Which movie would I recommend to see once in a lifetime?

Pan’s Labyrinth

What role does art play in my life and work?

Art is at the very centre of my life; when I’m just out and about, if I see someone wearing clothes that creates an interesting shape or silhouette I’ll take note of it. If I see a weird insect, an environment with an interesting composition, or hearing some intriguing

Which people in my profession would I love to meet in 2019?

There are many people in my profession, whom I respect and have been inspired by, that I would love to meet and have a conversation with over a pint. Once again, this list is ever expansive

What project, in 2019, am I looking forward to work on?

The unexpected project that springs out of the blue, whether it be from professional work or from a sudden spark of inspiration and excitement

Where can you see me or my work?

You can find my work here https://www.artstation.com/markw

What do the words, “Passion Never Retires”, mean to me?

If working = being creative, then I will continue working for the rest of my life

Which creative heroes should Peter invite to tell their story?

Bjorn Hurri, Anthony Jones, Ahmed Aldoori, Mike Franchina, Clint Cearley, just to name a few.

How can you contact me?

Email me at Markw96@live.co.uk
or message me at https://www.artstation.com/markw
or https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-wong-art/