Richie Pope: Artistry, Responsibility, and Ping Pong

I studied at an eccentric and colorful university in the central of Virginia. VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University) has one of the best art schools in the country (ranked #2 in the States by U.S News). Richmond, with its famous murals and numerous tattoo shops, hosts some of the most boldest, splendid, expressive, and hard-working artists in the world. I was able to interview one such individual, a VCU alumni, Richie Pope. Pope’s work drew me in with its beautiful detail and significant subject matters. To me, art should challenge and question you, while also charming you. Richie Pope’s work does all of that and more. Black Nerd Problems: What anime or cartoon captured your favorite animation style? Richie Pope: Ping Pong BNP: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Richie: I’m a freelance illustrator and cartoonist living in Richmond, VA. I finished up VCU in 2009, became a caricature artist, then worked at an art store, then the art store closed down. After that, I decided to jump head-first into freelance illustration and have been doing that ever since. Recently, I’ve been jumping back into making comics, too. BNP: Did you find your journey into becoming an artist typical? Or were there extraordinary bumps along the way? Richie: Pretty typical. I grew up drawing. The artist in the family. My mom was supportive, always encouraging what I was doing. The bumps were more so financial and social. “How do I ever become a famous artist if I didn’t grow up with a lot of mon…