Last Sunday, I started a thing I'm calling "Shout-Out Sunday" where I introduce some of my favorite artists on Instagram. Since I started my blog on Monday, I missed my very first share. I didn't want him to feel left out, so I'm posting it a bit late. Anywho, heeeeere's Joe!
This week, I'd like you to meet Joe Killiana. He's an incredible illustrator who lives in Paris, France. His unapologetic work is often violent and bloody with forays into eroticism and BDSM. I just love the bold style of his art. I look forward to seeing his new stuff every week. We've chatted a bit on Instagram and he seems to be a pretty chill guy. I highly recommend you check out his work and follow him @the_last_pagan on Instagram or on Tumblr (where he often gets more personal) @norsepaganbear.
Fair warning, if gore, nudity and sexuality aren't your bag, you might want to steer clear. Not all of his work contains these elements, but it's present in the vast majority. He will have prints available soon. In the meantime, if you'd like to purchase or commission a piece, message him on Instagram. Now enjoy this brief interview...
Q: Who are your favorite artists?
A: My favorite artists are Lovecraft, Kentaro Miura, Gustave Doré, Zdzislaw Beksinski and Friedrich among others.
Q: What inspires you? A: I am inspired by ancient civilisations and their sacred symbolism, first among them being ancient Greece, Mesopotamia and Germanic/Scandinavian tribes. My favorite artists obviously being major sources of inspirations too.
Q: What has been your greatest art-related challenge? A: My greatest challenge so far is the one I'm facing currently : writing the script of my comic book. As fascinating as it is, the creation of a universe and all of its cogs is one hell of a challenge.
Q: What's your trademark?
A: Among others, one of my trademarks is to always use the same color palette : black, gold and blood for their history and importance in ancient art and their sacred value.
Q: What's your favorite subject to draw or paint? A: My favorite subject will always be humanity and its flaws, its hidden pulsions, its violence.
