Last week, we talked about the awesome showing at Austin’s Mondo Gallery featuring the artistic infographics of artists Tom Whalen, Kevin Tong and Matt Taylor, that highlight pop culture heavy hitters like Back to the Future, Star Wars, The Avengers and more. Texas Lifestyle got a chance to sit down with Kevin Tong to pick his brain for info that might not make it to a canvas otherwise.

Q. Why art? What do you like the most about making art?

What’s not to love? I get to create images from my brain for things I love like movies and bands, it pays the bills, and most importantly, it has connected me to amazing people, like other artists and fans.

Q. Where did you get your training? Where did you learn how to do what you’re currently doing?

I studied art at California State University where they have great instructors. My experience there steered me into commercial illustration. From there, the bulk of learning was and continues to be from the creative people around me.

Q. What’s integral to your work as an artist?

An important part of being an artist is constantly experimenting and learning from mistakes.

Q. What advice do you have for aspiring artists? Advice that maybe helped you to follow your own dreams?

My best advice is to constantly try new things. Getting good at drawing and painting is only half the battle. The work needs to be shown to potential employers and audiences. Taking advantage of the internet is a good move.

Q. What would you consider your style? And how did it evolve into what it is now?

I don’t really stick to any style. Actually, I try really hard to do something new in every poster. The only thing stylistically I do consistently is make art for screen printing because I love the medium so much.

Q. What’s your proudest achievement as an artist? And what do you hope to accomplish next?

Whenever I share something I know from my experience with a new artist and they run with it, I feel really good about myself. Whether it be art techniques, business advice, or just being a friend, I hope I can keep helping my friends!