Release the “CRAKENS!” – Interview with Artist Martin Hsu

It feels good to be back after an unexpected hiatus and wouldn’t you know it I even brought a new friend with me, Martin Hsu. Hsu, who some may recognize as one of the co-creators of the popularly upbeat “goth” girl Ruby Gloom, is an LA-based character designer and illustrator who has worked with companies such as Disney and Nickelodeon.

Most recently, his work has been assembled under the Rotofugi Gallery for a month-long show entitled CRAKENS based on Hsu latest project. The show, which ends this Sunday, June 26th, marks Hsu’s first exhibition at Rotofugi and we’ve got the inside scoop behind the CRAKENS and just what fuels Hsu’s work.

Thanks for joining us, Martin. Can you give us a little background on yourself?

Thanks for having me! Well, my name is Martin Hsu. I’m originally from Taiwan, but have spent the last 20 years here in the States. I just moved to San Francisco about a month ago and very excited about this new chapter in my life. I also really enjoy wasabi peanuts!

How does your dual heritage (Chinese/Taiwanese) play a role in your work? Do you tend to draw influences more from one culture than another?

My heritage is clearly one of the biggest influences for my artwork. My family is originally from mainland China, but has settled in Taiwan for about 8 decades now. The dual heritage is a very interesting mix and has inspired me tremendously. My generation has been extremely blessed by the path that’s been set for us by our parents and grandparents. We never lived through war or had to scramble for a living, but the ones before us did. I draw tremendous inspiration from my grandparents who have given up their lives for the well being of their kids and grand kids. I take great pride in being a member of our loving family and a part of such an incredible community.

In past interviews you’ve been very poetic, using scent as well as visual cues to describe your work. How do you attempt to convey these other senses?

I use scents to describe my artwork in the most humorous way. I think looking at a piece of art is like tasting wine, cheese, chocolate, or any fine cuisine. Everyone tastes or sees something different most of the time. They also make the most fascinating personal connections with it [and] it’s these heart felt personal connections that I try to make through my artwork. Whether it makes you sad, giggle, taste berries or Thai chili, I can only hope it leaves an impression.

So are there any other influences that you draw from (music, movies, food)?

As most artists would say, we draw inspiration from everything around us, and I feel the same way. As I get older and become a bit more mature with the way I approach art, I catch myself becoming more selective with the type of music, movies, and food in my life. Ultimately, I find myself being attracted to anything that’s interesting and intriguing– anything that might ignite a spark. But if you’re curious about what I’m listening, watching, and eating nowadays, I can tell you I’m listening to Sigur Ros, watched Wasteland last night, and just had some salted caramel ice cream.

You’ve worked for both Disney and Nickelodeon, do you have a favorite studio (and if so why)?

My favorite studio to work for is the one located in my office when I’m working for myself, but I’ve had an incredible time working for both Disney and Nickelodeon. It doesn’t get better than working with a bunch of animation nerds like myself and make silly cartoons for kids and adults to enjoy. The free cupcakes were a plus, too.

What’s been your favorite character/series to work on so far?

My favorite animated series to have worked so far is probably Ni Hao, Kai Lan for Nick Jr. Although designing on Kick Buttowski and Fish Hooks at Disney was super fun, I was able to utilize my Chinese background on Ni Hao, Kai Lan not only on character and prop design, but with the writing, translation, and curriculum. It was tremendously rewarding to be able to introduce my culture and history to the American audience.

You’re also the creator of “Ruby Gloom.” What are the origins of that character and her universe?

My first job out of college was as a graphic artist at the LA based apparel company Mighty Fine. They knew I had an interest in character design and were enthusiastic about collaborating on a character for the company. Ruby Gloom was created by myself, the art director, and writers at Mighty Fine so I’m just one of the creators, but I can take credit for all the art that’s been created for her. Ruby started off as 3 T-shirt designs for Hot Topic which later grew into accessories and ultimately an animated series internationally. She might look sad, but is actually the happiest girl in the world. Her world is consisted of things that appear to be creepy, sharp, and melancholy, but in reality it promotes self esteem, confidence, and friendship. “Don’t judge a book by its cover” is something Ruby Gloom would say.

Your exhibit at Rotofugi Gallery called CRAKENS, that’s your first there isn’t it? How has your experience with them been?

At the beginning of this month, I had the privilege of having my first art show in Chicago at Rotofugi Gallery. It was an incredible 4 day trip filled with insane burgers, old fashioned hot dogs, good drinks and great company. Kirby and Whitney from Rotofugi really took good care of us. On top of running a successful and fantastic store/gallery, it really felt like they wanted to build good relationships with their artists. It’s a rare treat and I can’t thank them enough for their hospitality. I recommend everyone checking out their website and visit the massive, well-lid, super fun space if you ever find yourself in Chicago.

Just what are CRAKENS exactly?

CRAKENS is a direct result of my love for the irony of creepy and cute. They are inspired by creatures of the deep sea, Godzilla, Greek mythologies, environment consciousness, and animal awareness. CRAKENS are creatures of mass pollution by the humans. They are made of half land animal and half sea animal which are able to live on land and at sea. They are highly adaptable to any surroundings and are the ultimate winners in evolution. Like their predecessors, they take pride in knocking over power plants and disposing oil tankers, but the are peaceful and gentle beasts who mostly enjoy engaging in every day activities with their woodland animal friends like playing video games and listening to the newest Radiohead album.

I see CRAKENS as my next Ruby Gloom and have big plans lined up for them. I see them as T-shirts, accessories, vinyl toys, and perhaps ultimately an animated series. The paintings which are currently on display at Rotofugi are some of the earliest developmental concepts. With luck, maybe one of these days they’ll become collectibles for fans of Crabby Bear, Puffer Puss, Octobunny and more.

Any other big events/exhibits/projects planned for this year?

The next event I’ll be participating in is the annual geek fest in San Diego called International Comic Con. It’ll be my 8th year as an exhibitor and I’ll be selling my T-shirts, prints, books, custom vinyl toys, and original paintings.

I also have a 2-man show coming up in October with the very talented Lawrence Yang at Giant Robot/GR2 in LA. I’m super stoked about it!

In one word, what “fuels” you illustration?

Rice! Just kidding, [it's] hard to pick just one… but I know it’s “family.”

Find Hsu on Flickr | Read Hsu’s Blog