We recently connected with James Wittak and have shared our conversation below.
Hi James, appreciate you sitting with us today. Maybe we can start with a topic that we care deeply about because it’s something we’ve found really sets folks apart and can make all the difference in whether someone reaches their goals. Self discipline seems to have an outsized impact on how someone’s life plays out and so we’d love to hear about how you developed yours?
The people I look up to ultimately inspire discipline in me the most, whether it’s people I already know or people I hope to meet one day. My own friends, people I consider my equal, seem to always be pushing the bar farther and farther, and I get a much more insightful view on their process. However, for better or for worse, when it comes to artists and writers I look up to, I think I idealize them in a nearly unhealthy way. I think about their lives as if they pour everything they have into their work to the point that it forms into real magic. Sometimes I’m lucky enough for that inspiration to come in very relatable lyrics, such as in Jimmy Eat World’s song, “Diamond”.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am the writer and artist behind the graphic novel “No Name Star”. It is an action/adventure story about a world where inanimate objects can come to life and fight alongside our heroes, and the villains. It’s inspired by classic shonen manga and ska/punk music.
Additionally, when I have time outside of the graphic novel, I have been working on bringing “No Name Star” to life through animation. I have some animations available on my youtube channel “Tusky”, with many more on the way.
If you look up to the stars and feel purpose out there, “No Name Star” is a story you’ll enjoy.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
As stated before, discipline is key. Having a set quota or schedule behind a project does more than it seems. When the motivation tide is high, let it take you, but otherwise, sometimes a discplined chipping away strategy really keeps things moving and still leaves you time to get some sleep.
Lately, I’ve found consuming to be vital to my artist journey. It brings me back to my roots, and reminds me of why I’m here in the first place. I recently read the new volume 28 of Sword Art Online, and man… that feeling of desperately needing more when it ended was refreshing.
Lastly, reaching out to other artists is the most important of all. Thanks to going out of my bubble and checking out other independent creator’s stuff, I’ve made lifelong friends that I will forever try to do my best to impress. One comment on social media, or saying hi at a convention booth may be all it takes.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
This past year, I’ve been working on getting a better balance with consuming AND creating. I’ve always had a nasty habit of guilting myself to draw more, and not let myself enjoy a book or video game for the sake of fitting in more work. I’ve been better about that lately, and it’s only helped. Checking out new stories and games has only ignited my creativity and brought out the best in “No Name Star”.
I couldn’t recommend a book club more. What better chance to get to share your thoughts with loved ones, rather than have influencers on the internet shove their opinion in your face. Always think for yourself!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.webtoons.com/en/canvas/no-name-star/list?title_no=430982
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/no.name.star/?hl=en
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Tusky1039
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
