Frequently Asked Questions About Art
Questions and Answers
The Art & Artist ~
Who is A.D. Cook?
Forever an artist, A.D. started drawing early and has explored a variety of creative media and techniques over a lifetime.
The artist’s original paintings are featured in magazines and books as masterworks. His artworks are also exhibited in national museums and galleries from Key West to Hawaii, and he has been a featured artist and speaker at ArtExpo in New York City and Las Vegas.
What themes or subjects do you focus on?
My primary subjects are automotive-inspired art and motorcycle portraits, and life-size fine art nudes on canvas and metal.
How does your background influence your work?
I grew up around cool cars in an era where cars were rolling art. As a kid, I learned to draw by drawing cars.
My first memories of motorcycles are of me sitting on the tank of my dad’s Harley as he slowly rode me through the neighborhood.
How long does it take for you to create a piece?
There is no specific time limit, since each piece is unique in its making. But to answer the question, paintings have taken up to three months on and off, while some drawings I have completed in less than a day.
Do you take commissions?
Yes, however, I am very selective about which commissions I spend time on. I try to keep my work consistent with my style to create a fluent body of work. Most of my time is spent building my body of work for exhibitions.
What kind of brushes do you use?
I use a variety of brands, including Winsor & Newton and even cheaper Artist Loft brushes.
But, for airbrushes, I am a dedicated Iwata user.
Can I purchase original artwork?
Yes, my original work available for sale is listed here: ADCook.com/art-for-sale-price-list. If you do not see an original you would like to purchase, check out my Commissioning Art Originals page.
What or who inspires you?
I grew up studying everything and drawing anything I could.
I find inspiration in almost all walks of life around me. Music plays a large role in my inspiration. Also, dreams, both asleep and daydreams. But if we are speaking to other humans. I’d say Leonardo da Vinci, Maxfield Parrish, M.C. Escher, Audrey Flack, and realist artists.
Is there a book of your artwork available?
Not at this time. I am currently working on one titled “Inside The BOX,” which will feature many artworks that I have created. Hoping to release it sometime in the near future.
What kind of music do you listen to?
Anything I am in the mood for, really, but mostly classic rock. Some of my favorites include Van Halen, Queen, Lynard Skynard, Meat Loaf, just to name a few.
Will you design my album cover for my band?
Yes, it comes down to my schedule at the time and the request being made. Please contact me to schedule a consultation to go over your idea.
For Models ~
Do you work with model?
Yes, I occasionally work with models for my figurative art.
What themes or subjects do you focus on?
Sensual art nudes and implied nudes.
How does your background influence your work?
I’ve been drawing people since I was a kid, and most seriously since high school. After high school, I studied drawing and painting of the human figure as my main focus.
My figurative art and fine art nudes on canvas and metal have been showcased in galleries and shows nationally.
For Artists ~
I'm an artist just starting out. Any advice on how I can improve my drawing and painting skills?
Make sure your work incorporates a strong concept. Practice drawing smaller thumbnails before painting. Also, before you start, make sure your composition is on point. Add higher contrast, add more refined lines, add better lighting, experiment with perspective and planes of space and time. For me, it’s all about the details. So to help yourself improve, when you think you are finished with a drawing, go back in and rework it one, two, or three more times until you are really complete. I would also recommend studying old masters and even modern artists to get into their minds and see the small things that set them apart. Of course, you don’t want to copy, but rather expand on their influence with your own creativity and vision. I also feel that patience plays a significant role in completing a great piece of work. And most importantly, have fun while making your artwork.
I love to paint and draw but I'm not sure if I have what it takes to make a career out of it. Any advice?
My advice would be to truly analyze what makes you happy in life. If art stands out as number one, then I would say you have already decided what you need to do. Granted, making a career out of it will require a great deal of dedication, confidence in yourself, and a strong support system. Oh, and a good amount of natural talent would also help.
Any advice for aspiring artists?
Life isn’t easy, but if you have talent, it can make hard work a bit smoother. Keep working on your art every day. Trust the process. Aim for gallery-quality pieces that you’d be proud to show at an exhibit. Show respect to everyone and stay humble. Your only competition should be yourself. Approach everything in your life with good intentions. Read books on art marketing. Always be learning. Keep going, you can do it! I’ll be rooting for you.
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Got More Questions?
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