We recently had the chance to connect with Josh Baldwin and have shared our conversation below.
Josh, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
For a few years, I’ve been building bioactive vivariums in my free time. I’m now comfortable enough to scale what I’ve learned into larger, more intricate projects. For those unfamiliar, it’s about cultivating soil, micro and macro organisms, along with flora to create a balanced and (for the most part)self-sustaining ecosystem. I’m transitioning to aquatic life and mixing aquatics with the terrestrial biomes I’ve become familiar with.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Depending on who I’m speaking with, I’m an illustrator and designer or an illustrator and concept artist. To simplify, I’m a freelance digital artist specializing in developing characters and weapons for the indie entertainment industry, while also being adept at designing logos, websites, and other visuals for a myriad of businesses. I’m currently working on my historical fiction graphic novel, Horizon, and reworking my website between client work, all while being a full-time dad.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I used to believe that my work was a reflection of who I am as a person, which was detrimental to my mental health. If I didn’t have paid work, wasn’t being recognized for my accomplishments, or didn’t land a potential client, it would affect the way I viewed myself and my potential. Now, my work, although fun and sometimes challenging, is just work. I can pick it up and leave it. I can go for a walk or spend time with my family, not feeling guilty for not putting in more hours. Best of all, I can spend time with myself away from my computer and Cintiq, the way I should have all along.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I’ve somehow fooled myself into thinking that when I post, submit files, or reach out to a potential client, any misstep or mistake would become an issue. That people’s opinions would somehow find me, and if they did, the outcome could be devastating. I think some of that comes from the circumstances surrounding my childhood, but I’ve returned to learning and growing to the point where I can put something out into the world and be proud of what I’ve created. I believe that if I do that enough and learn from my mistakes, eventually I’ll build something that will have a lasting effect on my family and community. Then one day, my country or even the world, and no one can take that away.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
I try to keep my personal life as guarded as possible. From my family, to politics to religious beliefs, and more. Most of my in-person friends and family understand who I am and what I’m about. Online, I don’t share that information, because sometimes it can become all people see, regardless of the human behind those beliefs.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Months ago, I had a conversation with a dear friend discussing social media influence on entertainment, especially for those not in the proverbial or viral limelight. The outcome of that conversation was that I can spend years making my graphic novel, and thousands of dollars, but if I’m doing any of it with the intention of making money or becoming the next big whatever, it really won’t serve a higher purpose. As far as anyone knows, you only get one life on Earth; you might as well live it in a fulfilling way. I’m done with writing, painting, designing, and drawing for recognition. There are stories that I’d like to see that aren’t necessarily being told, and I’m equipped enough to tell them myself. Why wait to be praised or recognized to take the next step?
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jbaldwinart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbaldwinart/
- Other: https://www.artstation.com/jbaldwinart
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
