Gary Fernández, born in 1980, is a freelance illustrator and graphic artist based in Madrid, Spain and currently living in Vancouver, Canada. He is also the co-founder and creative part of the T-shirt brand VelvetBanana (founded at the end of 2005).

Gary has worked with global brands such as Coca Cola, Volkswagen, Camel, Nokia, etc.

Recently, he finished his first own-published book called “Introduction to Fantastic Girls, Future Landscapes & The Most Beautiful Birds Ever Seen”. The leitmotiv was to explore new ideas and concepts as well as to develop all that imagery that he started saving in his sketchbooks a long time ago already. The outcome has become the beginning of his new frame of work, which he is currently working on.

How would you describe your personal style?
It’s a combination between the things I love, the things I believe should exist and the experiences I’ve had.
 
When you were a child, did you want to become an illustrator?
I didn't know what an illustrator is. But I’ve been drawing since then.

Where do you get your inspiration from?
No specific path. Traveling, talking to friends, reading, just walking or listening to music are good ways to get inspiration and good stories.

Could you describe your working process?
I usually start with the topic I want to develop. Then I do some sketches and review my notebooks. When I get the overall vision I start to define each element and its details. Then, when I’m quite sure about the composition and its elements, I start to make the final version and to color it.

What would be the ideal working setup for you?
A big, empty and sunny space with big windows furnished with just a very big table to draw and a comfortable chair. It also requires big speakers to get each detail of the music I love to listen to.

What do you love the most about your life as an illustrator?
The possibility of creating new worlds.

If you had to do something totally different for living, what would it be?
I can't imagine doing something different. I mean, something not creative. Right now, I think I wouldn't be able to do anything else.

What kind of music do you listen while working?
I usually listen to different styles of music. It depends on the project I’m developing. The only requirement is to listen to really good and original tunes.

If you could go anywhere tomorrow, where would you go?
I’d go back to the Death Valley in California. It’s impressive.

Who are you all-time favorite artists?
Amongst others, I really love Hokusai and Aubrey Beardsley.
 
What is the most bizarre dream you ever had?
It’s difficult to remember... I have quite odd and bizarre dreams on a daily basis. Even when I'm not sleeping.

If you could meet any great name from known human history, who would it be?
Obama.
 
Thank you!