MightySkins Artist Spotlight: Technodrome1
Today we have the pleasure of sharing with you all an interview we did with Technodrome1, one of our top skin and wrap design artists. Technodrome1 (real name Joshua Williams) creates pop culture pieces with a psychedelic twist, which really pop on skins for everything from vape pens to smartphones to laptops.
In our conversation with the New Jersey-raised and Brooklyn-based artist, we dive into the story behind the Technodrome1 name, how Williams got his start as an artist, and what inspires him to create.
Who are you, really?
Batman.
How did you come up with the name “Technodrome1?”
Technodrome1 is from Ninja Turtles. It’s a vehicle with an eyeball on top that Shredder and the bad guys used. I wanted the name for my Tumblr at the time but some little kid already used it, so they made me put a “1” at the end. Technodrome1 was born.
What was it like growing up in New Jersey?
NJ was nice and boring, ideal for a kid who wants to grow up safe and untraumatized. My mother was 100 percent Native American, so that was cool. NJ did not have an impact on my art; it was just a nice, quiet, boring place to hone my skills. The TV, movies, and Internet did the inspiring.
The day I saw the Ninja Turtles animated show on TV, I was sold on art and wanting to draw just as good as that anime-style intro to the show. I tried to trace the TV screen with a crayon.
What made you decide to go to art school and what was your experience there?
I was lucky enough to attend private college prep school where I starred in basketball. They had a major art department that helped me develop a portfolio. My grades were sh*t but as long as we won games, the teachers let me slide.
Your work is very colorful and often described as psychedelic. How would you describe it? How did you develop your style?
I took acid in high school and I vividly remember the melting colors and the expansion of my mind. [That] pretty much explains the colors vibe. I didn't use colors like this until later in college when I discovered computer art and Adobe Illustrator.
Who or what were some of your influences in the art world when you were getting started? Today?
I used to admire the greats but not anymore these days. I hate name dropping but I’d say I respect Kaws and people that hustle. I respect the drive more than the art I’d say. Bansky, David Choe...
What do you aim to communicate through your art?
Hmmm. A good feeling. Positivity. Culture, I guess.
How does your art reflect what’s happening in the world today?
I make nostalgic things and topical culture portraits. I just make what I see and what I like.
What new trends in the art world do you have your eye on or take part in?
GIFs. I’ve made GIFs in the past, so much work. I think my work is pretty solid by itself. It is its own trend, I think I'm lucky enough to say.
How do you work best?
Sober.
What are your hobbies other than art?
Skateboarding.
If you weren’t an artist, what would you be doing?
Can’t say. Art is pretty much my life. I live off it, literally.
What do you dream of doing in the future?
Retiring on an island or the woods with a woman I love and hopefully some kids.
What advice would you give to new/aspiring artists?
Try until you can't take it anymore and if you give up, you're not really an artist and you should probably get a job. And don't go to art school unless you’re mature enough to get something out of it.
How did you connect with MightySkins? What led you to working with us?
Honestly, the Internet connected me to all brands I currently work with. Social media for me is the greatest outlet. People approach me all the time about work through just my Instagram – @technodrome1.
Transform Your Favorite Gear with Colorful Skins
We want to thank Technodrome1 for taking the time to chat with us about his amazing work! To keep up with all of his latest projects, be sure to follow him on Instagram @technodrome1 and visit him on Tumblr.
Whether you’re looking for Technodrome1 skins or skins from another artist, MightySkins has you covered. Shop our skins online to transform your favorite everyday products into works of art!