Congratulations to Doren Chapman, senior in the BFA program, who has been selected for the prestigious Society of Illustrators 2013 Student Scholarship Competition. Chapman’s artwork, “The Presidents (Part 2)” will be on display May 15 through June 5, at the Museum of American Illustration at the Society of Illustrators in New York, NY.
The project started last fall as an exercise in character expression and was redesigned early this semester for the competition. Chapman chose to illustrate the presidents because their faces are familiar and he wanted to create something instantly recognizable that people could connect with and enjoy. “I am happiest with Nixon because I feel like his expression captures how most people imagine him,” Chapman added.
The Society of Illustrators Student Scholarship Competition is an annual competition that first began in 1981. Every year students bring their most sophisticated, well-crafted and original work to be tested and a jury of professional peers, including illustrators and art directors, selects the most outstanding works created throughout the year. Pieces are accepted based on the quality of technique, concept and skill of medium used. Over 5,000 entries were submitted by professors of college-level students nationwide and this year close to 200 were selected. To view all of the winners, visit the competition gallery.
“I’m interested in art that can either impress people with detail, concept and technique, or make people laugh. In my experience, the first will get you more respect as an artist, but the second always sells better. I’m inspired by artists that are self-aware and produce art that people want. I think it’s important for young artists (including myself) to remember that in order to make a decent living from your work, you need create something that people want. The same rules that apply in business can also apply in your art,” Chapman commented.
To learn more about the artist and view the collection of president illustrations, visit Chapman’s website and shop.