In a new exclusive interview on Blazing Minds, I got an opportunity to ask Megan Umpleby of Sludge Work a few questions about; how she got started, influences and her favourite pieces of artwork.

Q. Can you tell me a bit about your company Sludgework and how it got started? 

I have been into drawing and alternative art since I was a young teenager. When I went to University in 2011 for a totally unrelated degree, I found I was enjoying just being in my room and drawing way more than most of the University activities. Once I left University, I filled my free time outside my job with art, dabbled in sharing it online etc and then in 2018 decided I wanted it to be my job and living, so I started freelancing as Sludgework.

Q. You have a unique style which makes your artwork identifiable. How would you describe your style of artwork and what inspired you to start drawing in this way? 

I would describe it as alternative and dark, only because it fits within a niche. Skulls from cartoon to the macabre. I was heavily inspired by album artwork I would see as a late teen and bands I followed during University. I was always so intrigued as to the artist behind the album art and branding for the band. I discovered Mark Riddick and found out he makes a living doing this. I wanted to take my style and abilities and make it something, develop and find my own style, so I made Sludgework.

Q. What is your process for working on a new commission and how long does it take you to complete?

When I’m approached by a client, I like to get all the info I can on what their initial ideas and preferences are. If they are specific, I will use that, if they are vague, I will try to do research and check in and make sure it fits them.

I do a quick rough pencil sketch to decide the layout and placement, then I move onto the initial linework, then detail next, and finally making a digital file I can send to the client that is high quality and can be used for their intended purpose. The average length is around 2 weeks depending on number of projects and level of detail. However, if I am advised that the timescale is urgent, then I make it top priority.

Q. What is the most difficult design you have been asked to create? 

I honestly don’t know. I think difficulty would come with the size and complexity of the piece paired with the time frame. I have not had any difficult or demanding clients at all, everyone has been lovely to date, so I imagine I would only have difficulty if that situation became apparent. The artwork itself I enjoy too much to call it difficult. Some new elements are challenging, and require new research or technique alterations but overall, I don’t find them difficult, just new. On that note though, I would never accept a job I genuinely thought was not my style and I couldn’t do, I would have to be honest and tell the client.

Q. Your style fits naturally in horror be it films, books or music such as heavy metal. With some of these in mind have you had any unusual requests or been asked to work on any controversial designs?

I have never been approached to do anything controversial luckily. I would not get involved in anything that went against anything I believe to be important. Anything racist, fascist, homophobic, transphobic, anything that spreads hate, or negativity is a straight up no.

Other than that, I can’t think of anything unusual outside of it already being skulls, skeletons, melting skin, bones, death etc etc. Which is up my street art wise.

Q. Who are your biggest influences when it comes to your artwork? 

Mark Riddick in terms of genre and the fact he makes a living from it. Also, I guess my mum, who isn’t an artist currently but has immense skill with still life drawing.

Q. What are some of your favourite pieces which you have created?

I love the series of skeleton avatars which are ongoing, each one is unique and fun. They are quick to create once I have the reference and specs from the client. I love tailoring them and trying to bring out the personality or interests in a simple skull design. I would also say the Lunarcult album artwork, currently at three pieces, is great because each one is themed and builds on the next.

Q. Do you have any other projects which you are working on?

I am working with some small business creatives currently in creating artwork and sharing that. Plus, the current and pending commissions. I just love to be busy doing my artwork.

Q. What advice would you give to aspiring artists who may want to get into designing themselves?  

Go for it. Art has to make you happy first and foremost, and after that, if you love what you do and develop skills you should use them. Even if you just share it with people. If you want to get into designing and opening for commissions then you have to put in the work, it’s worth it.

Philip Rogers

Published in various websites, Philip is a reviewer who is best known for his interviews and media coverage of independent projects including; films, books, theatre and live events. Always on the lookout for something different to cover!