Duckworth Dozen Pedro Oyarbide
Tell us all about you...
Hi, I’m Pedro, a Spanish illustrator currently based in Valencia and I’ve been working as a freelancer for 10 years now. Before that, I worked for various agencies and studios in the UK where I honed my skills as a professional illustrator.
My journey started with Fine Arts studies in Madrid, and I later completed my Graphic Design degree in Germany. This is where I first learned the basics of digital design as I came from a more traditional background of charcoals, oil, and canvases. I started finding my own references and working hard to find my style. I feel that illustration is a dimension where I can mix my drawing skills and knowledge in visual arts but with a more practical and commercial purpose.
What’s something inspiring you’ve seen this week?
I recently attended an exhibition in Madrid titled "No va a quedar nada de todo esto” (None of this is going to remain). The exhibition showcased a remarkable collection of original signs and lettering rescued from local businesses in Madrid that have either vanished or replaced their signage with new ones.
How do you prepare for a job? Tell us about the process for Miller Lite.
For over two years now, I've been involved in crafting localization illustrations for Miller Lite. I've completed more than 40 illustrations, each featuring a can surrounded by landmarks or distinctive elements representing various cities or states. In the beginning, it was a tricky to strike the right balance of detail within the constraints of restricted color and the limitation of referencing copyrighted buildings or landmarks. So, ensuring the cities remained recognizable presented a particularly intricate brief.
As time has passed, I've become accustomed to following the consistently well-detailed Turner Duckworth briefs. I can now effortlessly generate rounds of sketches, experimenting with different compositions and sharing them with the team. The process has become incredibly smooth, with rarely any major revisions needed, making it an enjoyable task.
What is the weirdest thing you’ve had to create?
I created a pattern for a brand of dog poop bags.
Best advice for someone who wants to become an illustrator or something you wish you knew when just starting out?
The landscape has evolved rapidly over the past couple of years, especially since I embarked on my journey as a professional illustrator 12 years ago. Recently, there was a surge of NFT-related requests, creating a feeling of missing out on a trend I wasn't eager to join. Fortunately, the trend faded quickly. Now, with AI on the rise, which introduces both incredible and daunting tools, I am fortunate that my work remains mostly unaffected. I continue to receive a consistent flow of projects from great clients who trust my style and abilities.
However, I can totally empathize with those just starting out, as the current time can be overwhelming. Every era brings its unique challenges, but this one is particularly crazy. I strongly believe that, when starting out in illustration, it's best to identify an area where you can naturally evolve, avoiding the need to force or imitate. If you feel that you're just ripping off a style without adding your personal touch, it might not be the right path. Aspiring illustrators should get a taste of different fields to discover what tastes best for them. Experiment with various styles, draw inspiration from professionals, and gradually develop a distinctive style that truly represents you. Once you've found it, push it to its limits. Pedal to the metal.
Something you cannot live without?
Referencing The Sopranos on a daily basis.
Last emoji you used?
🤷♂️
Describe your work in three words.
Handrawn. Imperfect. Fresh.
What would you be doing if you were not an illustrator?
The idea of opening an art gallery is appealing to me, but I can't shake the feeling that it might not succeed and could potentially close within six months. On the other hand, I have a genuine interest in sign painting and am considering delving into its technical aspects. If circumstances allow, or if I find myself without work, I might explore the path of studying and pursuing sign painting.
Describe your perfect day off?
Being on vacation, miles away from my studio without a laptop or iPad.
Finish this sentence, you might not believe this but…
Armadillos are bulletproof.
Go-to song when you’re working?
Going Gets Tough by The Growlers.
