This week we’re talking to 2D artist Gina Chacón, whom many of you know already!
Introduce yourself to the fans! What is your specific role on the Hiveswap team?
I’m a 2D artist! I’m mostly dedicated to environment art these days, but I’ve also made loads of concept art and things like in-game posters. That Bubsy poster sure was fun to do!
When and how did you get your start on the Hiveswap project?
Before Hiveswap came along, I was already making some art now and then for Homestuck merch as a freelance artist.
Suddenly, one day I received an email from What Pumpkin asking how much free time I had, to which I replied that I was about to finish a short comic. Shortly thereafter, an email from Andrew Hussie himself arrived along with a job offer, and that totally blew my mind! You can imagine how my hands were trembling from excitement and joy as I tried to type out a reply!
Tell us a little bit about your career background! How did you get your start in art and graphic design? Do you have any advice for others looking to enter this field?
I always saw myself working in and around art. I’ve worked as a freelancer since 2003, and every job offer I’ve ever gotten came because someone happened upon my online gallery and took interest in my work.
My advice for anyone in this field – or looking to get into it – is not only to constantly be practicing and honing your craft, but also to make yourself known and get your work out there in the public sphere. Trust in your skill as an artist and have faith in your ability to overcome challenges you haven’t surmounted before!
We’re making a video game, so of course the question must be asked: what’s your favorite game of all time, and what games are you playing currently (if any)?
That’s a tough one! My safe answer is Zelda: Ocarina of Time, but I have so many favorites for each console that it would probably take a lot of space to list them all.
I’m currently playing Steins;Gate, Odin Sphere Leifthrasir, Danganronpa 2, Persona 5, Final Fantasy XV, and my ultimate blocker to finishing all of those: Overwatch. My team is dumb and I love them.
Are there any games that you currently use or have used as inspiration for your own art and graphic design work here on Hiveswap, or just in general?
After playing Odin Sphere for PS2, I quickly became a huge Vanillaware fan. George Kamitani’s art style is my eternal inspiration, along with Haradaya’s style for the Disgaea games.
What are your preferred programs and applications as an artist and graphic designer? What are the tools of your trade?
I’m a PaintTool SAI lover, but I use Photoshop CC a lot for Hiveswap and occasionally Clip Paint Studio for my own custom brushes.
I’m a terrible traditional artist, but I also experiment with Copic and watercolors now and then.
What’s your workstation like? Do you like to listen to any particular kinds of music while you work? If so, tell us about it!
Heh, I guess my workstation is mostly just filled with things a 14-year-old weeaboo kid would want, but I love my useless stuff. Here’s a picture of my workspace!
My playlists consist of anime music, video game soundtracks, and podcasts. Video game- and movie-related podcasts are my favorite!
Favorite Homestuck character?
Roxy Lalonde! As soon she was introduced, she became my favorite kid and I love everything about her. ❤
Favorite Homestuck ship?
John/Roxy – my heart melted in every panel they appeared in.
Favorite Homestuck flash?
I’m a post-Cascade reader, haha. That was my first approach to MSPA after having no idea what Homestuck was and watching that first panel with John just standing there. Thanks, Tumblr.
Do you have a personal message you’d like to relay to all the Homestuck and Hiveswap fans out there?
Thanks for all your support and patience! I’ve had so much fun being part of this game and I can’t wait for everyone to play it.
Where can people find more of your work? Link us to your own little corner(s) of the Internet!
Flying through Storytelling 