We had the good fortune of connecting with Asill Tantush and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Asill, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Well, I would say that the most important factor behind my success as a video game artist is my ability to ”adapt to change” and my willingness to embrace new opportunities. I am from Libya, and finding job opportunities as a video game artist is not easy here.
However, I was determined to pursue my passion and turned to the internet to look for work opportunities. I started by creating a portfolio of my work and showcasing it on various online platforms. This was the first step in building my brand and getting my work out there.
One of the most important aspects of building my brand ”Axill TNT” was networking. I reached out to other video game artists and industry professionals online, joined online communities and forums, and participated in discussions. This allowed me to make connections with people all over the world and learn from their experiences.
I also made sure to keep learning and improving my skills. I took online courses and tutorials to enhance my abilities, and I stayed up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the industry.
All of these efforts paid off, and I started receiving job offers from all over the world. I was able to work remotely from Libya and collaborate with teams in other countries on various video game projects. This allowed me to gain experience and exposure in the industry, which led to even more opportunities.
In summary, I believe that my ability to adapt, network, learn and showcase my skills online were the most important factors behind my success as a video game artist. And I hope that my story can inspire others who may be facing similar challenges to pursue their passions and embrace the opportunities available online.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is primarily focused on character design and concept art for video games. I have a strong passion for bringing unique and visually captivating characters to life. I believe what sets me apart from others is my attention to detail, my ability to infuse personality into my designs, and my commitment to delivering high-quality work.
I’m very proud of my work on big online games such as ”Population one on oculus” and ”Smash boats,” but what I am most proud of is the progress I have made in my artistic skills over the years. I started with a humble set of tools and limited resources, but through continuous practice and learning, I have been able to refine my techniques and develop my own artistic style. Seeing the growth in my abilities and the positive responses from clients and peers has been incredibly rewarding.
Getting to where I am today professionally was not easy. As I mentioned earlier, coming from Libya, a Third World country, presented its own set of challenges. Limited access to formal art education and fewer opportunities within the local industry meant that I had to seek alternative paths to pursue my dreams.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was the lack of exposure and networking opportunities. However, I overcame this obstacle by embracing the power of the internet. I actively participated in online communities, built connections with industry professionals, and utilized social media platforms to showcase my work. Through online platforms, I was able to connect with clients and collaborate with teams from all over the world, breaking geographical barriers.
Throughout this journey, I have learned some valuable lessons. Firstly, perseverance and dedication are key. The path to success is rarely smooth, but with determination and a willingness to learn from failures, one can overcome obstacles and keep moving forward.
Secondly, continuous learning and improvement are essential. The art industry is constantly evolving, and staying updated with the latest tools, techniques, and trends is crucial. Seeking feedback, taking courses, and exploring new artistic styles have helped me push my boundaries and grow as an artist.
Lastly, building relationships and networking are crucial for professional growth. Collaborating with talented individuals, learning from mentors, and embracing feedback have played a significant role in my development. The support and guidance from others in the industry have been instrumental in shaping my career.
As for what I want the world to know about me and my brand, I want to be recognized as an artist who not only creates visually appealing artwork but also tells stories through my characters. I strive to bring depth and emotion to my designs, creating memorable and engaging experiences for players. I want my work to inspire and evoke emotions, capturing the imagination of both gamers and art enthusiasts alike.
Overall, my story is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and the opportunities presented by the digital age. It shows that regardless of geographical location or background, one can pursue their dreams and find success by leveraging the online world and continuously honing their craft.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One of the great things about visiting Atlanta is the city’s rich history and vibrant cultural scene. From iconic landmarks like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and the Atlanta History Center to the world-class museums such as the High Museum of Art and the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the city’s fascinating past and diverse art and cultural offerings. here’s my go to spots if I had a friend visit. Day1;
Morning: Start with breakfast at Flying Biscuit Café for their famous biscuits and Southern-style fare.
Afternoon: Explore the Atlanta BeltLine, a vibrant trail network with art installations, parks, and local markets.
Evening: Head to Ponce City Market for dinner and drinks. Enjoy a variety of cuisines at the Central Food Hall and grab a cocktail at Skyline Park, offering stunning views of the city.
Day 2:
Morning: Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, including the King Center and the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church.
Afternoon: Take a trip to the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world, and marvel at the marine life.
Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, known for its classic Southern dishes and warm hospitality.
Day 3:
Morning: Start the day at the High Museum of Art, renowned for its diverse collection of contemporary and classical works.
Afternoon: Explore the Atlanta History Center, featuring exhibitions on the Civil War, Southern history, and beautiful gardens.
Evening: Head to the vibrant neighborhood of Little Five Points for dinner at The Vortex Bar & Grill, known for its burgers and eclectic atmosphere.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I would like to give a shoutout to my father and mother ”Najeb Tantush, Raja Abu Hamed” who have always been my biggest supporters throughout my journey. They encouraged me to pursue my passion for art from a young age and provided me with the resources and tools I needed to develop my skills.
I would also like to recognize the online communities and platforms that have played a significant role in my success. Websites like ArtStation and LinkedIn have provided me with a platform to showcase my work and connect with other professionals in the industry.
Additionally, I would like to give credit to my mentors and peers who have helped me grow as an artist. Their feedback and guidance have been invaluable in improving my skills and understanding of the industry.
Website: https://www.artstation.com/axilltnt
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/axilltnt/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/axill-tnt-8140b2252/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2_bk2smHPdeEwjQRtjzXlw
Other: Axill TNT