originally from new york but currently in philadelphia, artist branche coverdale's work captures the energy of his environment like no other. here, he tells us how walking and intuition feed his creative world.
Tell us one creative episode of your childhood that was instrumental in you realising you wanted to pursue a creative career.
When I was younger I was always secretly drawing on computer paper at home. In the fourth grade, I created a Rube Goldberg drawing for a science assignment. It was just for extra credit, but I remember getting really into it and making the drawing very detailed. My teacher was so impressed that he told my parents about it at a parent-teacher conference. From that point on, my parents began encouraging my creative pursuits.
Tell us how you came to live a creative life as an adult.
I studied Illustration at RISD. While I was there, I designed posters, sold and traded silkscreen prints, and made an animation for a friend’s music video. I loved collaborating with friends—it helped build the foundation for my career and made me comfortable working on all kinds of projects.
What are the challenges you are faced with living off your creativity?
I’ve faced challenges in figuring out which projects are worth my time and commitment and in learning to say no, especially when something doesn’t align with my values. Between managing a business and personal life I’ve learned that not every day will be a creative one, and that’s okay.
What is your dream brief?
Maybe working with a team on an animation project I would love to be involved in projects like that again.
Describe something that sends you into Creative Land?
I try to go on walks every day, mostly for mental health and document what I see. I recently moved into West Philly so I’ve been photographing; buildings, people, and objects—and trying to work those observations into my art. When I’m at home, I often find inspiration in movies and albums.
what is the one thing you have learnt so far in your career?
Don’t overthink it. I try to keep the beginning stages loose and fun. Usually in those stages when I'm drawing and not thinking too much about the project I find the thing that’s worth doing.
to commission branche or see his portfolio, email antonialouiseproductions@gmail.com.