Featured Artist: Freeminds

Lithuania-based artist Indre Bankauskaite, also known as Freeminds, crafts sometimes simple, sometimes sweet, and sometimes dangerous manga-influenced illustrations featuring everything from whimsical animals, to badass warriors, and beyond.  We spoke with her about her background, her work ethic, and why being impatient led her to find her stunning style.

How did you become an artist?

I’ve been drawing since I was a kid, and wanted to be an artist. When I was younger I wanted to be an architect or interior designer, as a teen I was fascinated by fashion photography, and then concept art. Art was always a part of my life, I went to an art school and after that I was studying animation in Academy of Fine Arts, but I dropped it.

How did you get started in freelancing, and how have you sustained your freelancing career?

I always wanted to draw digitally, so I started drawing and uploading everything online, to get feedback and to stay motivated. And if I could get some extra money it would be nice. Never thought I would be able to support myself just with drawing.

What pieces of advice would you give to other artists beginning freelancing?

It takes time and patience, so draw what you love and draw a lot. Also be an active member of a community.

Could you talk us through the process of creating one digital artwork? Why do you enjoy painting digitally?

I’m not very patient, so I tend to work quick, before I get bored with the drawing. That’s why most of my drawings are simple. I used to make little composition sketches with a pencil. Then I would scan it and make a few color variations digitally. Once I was satisfied I would draw on a huge file from scratch, so the drawing is large enough for prints. Now I just go with the idea and draw in one go. If it turns out to be really bad I would not upload it, but it’s rarely the case…

What do you find so inspiring and exciting about animals? I notice you use a lot of animals in your artwork?

I love how different they are, colors and shapes. My mom had this book of insects with macro shots of butterfly wings. I was so fascinated by those photos that I told myself, that one day I’ll create myself a dress with butterfly patterns on. That never happened, but I still think that butterflies are one of the most beautiful creatures on earth. I’m also bad at drawing people, so that’s another reason.

Who have been your main sources of inspiration for creating your artwork? Which artists do you look to regularly to inspire you?

Internet is a great source of inspiration but sometimes it’s hard to stop browsing and go back to work. Also anime, manga and games.

Don’t really have favorites, I admire different things about the artist. Lauren D. Austin and her works for blizzard, James Jean, especially his drawings for Prada.

Do you think artists need to be solitary and make work alone? Do you consider yourself a social person and artist?

Depends on a person, being artist has nothing to do with it. I’m shy, and people usually overhelms me, so I personally prefer to be alone or with my boyfriend. I also enjoy being with animals.

What’s the hardest and easiest part about being an artist for you?

Hardest thing is to be inspired and creative. And the easiest are sales.

What do you enjoy about using Redbubble and sharing your artwork online?

I just love RB uploading system, one of the best and fastest! Sharing online and getting feedback gets you motivated.

Discuss Freemind’s work in the comments and support her by visiting her shop.