This weeks featured artist is the very talented Kira Banks. Checkout our interview below and have a look at some of her awesome, artistic video game creations. If you are interested in becoming a PureNintendo.com featured artist, or submitting fan art to Pure Nintendo Magazine then continue reading after the article for details. Enjoy!
KD: Hi Kira, thanks so much for taking the time to show us some of your awesome artwork. When did you become interested in illustration? Is it something you’ve always had a knack for?
KB: Thank you for having me! I’ve always been interested in art ever since I can remember, but illustration specifically, I’ve been becoming more interested in within the last 2 years.
KD: Do you dabble in other forms of art or just stick to mostly illustration?
KB: I actually bounce around pretty often. I haven’t been able to settle down with just one form of art because I’m interested in too many! I went to college for graphic design, but I enjoy drawing, painting, and photography as well.
KD: That’s awesome! What’s inspires you when it comes to creating art?
KB: Mostly Nintendo games that I’m playing or nostalgic 90’s themes. I was a big fan of the original Nicktoons growing up and will forever love those shows! I feel like both brands were such a big part of my life so re-creating memories for myself and others is really enjoyable.
KD: What’s your favorite Nintendo game or series?
KB: If I had to pick absolutely one it would be Pokémon as a series. I’ve played every single version, watched the anime, collected the cards, etc. basically I’m a huge fan. I think the game back in the day was a chance to take an awesome adventure, and even today as an adult it’s just as much fun.
KD: Do you have a favorite piece or one that you had more fun creating than the others?
KB: My favorite project currently that I did is custom Nintendo themed hats. It was a new experience for me painting on apparel and being able to wear an exclusive piece. I would like to do more projects like that.
KD: Have you ever submitted any art into a contest or collaborated with another artist online?
KB: Yes actually my most recent contest was from Nintendo themselves for their recent title “ARMS”. I created a drawing that was sort of a cluster of all the playable characters at the time. Unfortunately I did not win the contest, but my piece did make an appearance in their YouTube video! Also the drawing itself had sold and is in a great home now.
KD: Do you have any projects or pieces planned for the near future that you would like to tell us about?
KB: Well to be honest my work usually just comes to me in the heat of the moment, but I could let you into some ideas in my head. Some thoughts floating around are commissioned Mario Kart setup drawings but personalized. Also I’ve always wanted to draw every single Pokémon that exists.
KD: Thanks for taking the time to answer some of my questions. I love your art style and I wish I was as talented as you are with those markers. Where can our readers see more of your art, get a commission or follow you on social media if they’re interested?
KB: Of course, thank you so much for the opportunity! The best place to reach me is on Instagram @paper.KB I have links to my contact info and shop as well as post all my art over there!
Be sure to keep an eye out for more awesome art from Kira Banks and thanks for reading!
Any artist interested in having their artwork on PureNintendo.com or in PNM can contact me at Kaelyn@purenintendo.com. We love to see anything Nintendo themed from fan art to sculptures to baked goods. You could be the next Pure Nintendo featured artist! Also to see artwork from artists featured in our magazine, PNM, please head to PureNintendo.com/magazine to subscribe! Thanks for reading!
