ECCC Spotlight 2019: Conrad Javier Channels Chicago’s Fighter Mentality Through His Art

Sports and art are two very different things. And it is easy to assume that the general fan of one might not really be into the other. But that’s not necessarily so. If you’re on Instagram or Twitter, you’ve probably seen an explosion of sports illustrations recently. After a big game or an important event in the sports world, sites like Bleacher Report will have an illustrated image up almost instantaneously to engage with fans. It has become a really interesting intersection between two major industries that are both starting to realize the potential of one another. This past weekend at Emerald City Comic Con, I met Conrad Javier, one of the most prominent illustrators in this movement. We got to chop it up about his beginnings, his process, and his goals. He’s also from Chicago, the best city in the world, no cap. #TheresAlwaysAChicagoConnection??

Conrad Javier’s Chicago Roots Black Nerd Problems: Who or what first inspired you to start drawing? Conrad Javier: It’s actually a funny story. When I was in kindergarten, there was this contest, whoever won would have their art go on a shirt. My brother was known as the best drawer. Older brother. 5th grade. Just super confident. So in kindergarten, I was like Chris help teach me how to draw so I can try and win this. He told me to go teach myself. I got really angry. So I spent all night doing this drawing. The day comes, judgment comes, and all of a sudden there’s actually a tie. And now my brother is angry. They said “Christ…