Jason Chan P.L. and His Journey as a Freelance Animator and Illustrator
Jason Chan P.L., also known as onlyparkland on social media, is a freelance animator and illustrator from Malaysia. He has illustrated Hilda’s Book of Beasts and Spirits and Hilda’s World: A guide to Trollberg, the Wilderness, and Beyond, both of which are filled with watercolor illustrations.
A Traditional Approach in a Digital Age
As an animator, Jason’s work is heavily influenced by digital tools. However, he has a strong foundation in traditional drawing and painting techniques. "I started drawing a lot at the age of seven after discovering Dragon Ball. I wanted to work on comics, but I didn’t know if there were any schools in Malaysia for that," he says. "Instead, I learned to animate traditionally with pencil and paper in college. One of the principles of animation is solid drawing, and it’s something I truly believe in. Therefore, practicing to improve my drawing skills is something I try my best to prioritize in my career as an animator."
The Importance of Sketchbook Practice
Jason’s daily sketchbook routine helps him maintain his drawing skills and explore new techniques. "I started with one sketch a day, then increased it to a couple of pages every weekend, drawing people outdoors with my wife (then girlfriend)," he says. "Eventually, it became a daily routine, and I spend about an hour drawing patrons while having coffee at my favorite coffee shop. Cafes are always the best place to draw people!"
Favourite Sketchbook Pages
Jason’s favorite sketchbook pages are those that represent his growth as an artist. "I look fondly at these ones because they represent various improvements and changes in the way I draw and paint," he says. One of his favorite projects is sketching 100 people in a week, which can be found on his Instagram page. "Here, the caricature of shapes and the looseness of gestures are among my best," he says.
Managing Multiple Sketchbooks
Jason has a few active sketchbooks at any given time, and he likes to mark the start and end dates on each one. "I always promise myself to complete one sketchbook a year, and I still struggle with that," he laughs. "I have a few active sketchbooks at the same time. Some of them may take a few years to complete. I will cycle through these once in a while until they are fully completed."
The Process of Watercolor Painting
For his illustrated Hilda books, Jason chose watercolors. "I was comfortable with the medium, and the publisher approached me after they came across some fan sketches I made of Hilda," he says. "Sometimes colors and watercolor texture may not come out right. I would need to edit them digitally in Photoshop – adjusting the hue or saturation, using the stamp tool to correct splotchy textures, and reworking the line art."
Conclusion
Jason’s sketchbook practice has helped him maintain his drawing skills and explore new techniques. His background in animation has also influenced his art style, with a focus on conveying motion and exaggerating shapes. By combining traditional and digital media, Jason has developed a unique style that showcases his growth as an artist.
FAQs
Q: What inspired you to start drawing?
A: I started drawing a lot at the age of seven after discovering Dragon Ball.
Q: How do you approach your sketchbook practice?
A: I start with one sketch a day, then increase it to a couple of pages every weekend, drawing people outdoors with my wife (then girlfriend).
Q: What do you like most about your sketchbook pages?
A: I look fondly at these ones because they represent various improvements and changes in the way I draw and paint.
Q: How do you manage your multiple sketchbooks?
A: I always promise myself to complete one sketchbook a year, and I still struggle with that. I have a few active sketchbooks at the same time. Some of them may take a few years to complete. I will cycle through these once in a while until they are fully completed.
