Andy J. Pizza is an illustrator, podcaster and be-weird-in-public enthusiast. He was born in Indiana, went to middle school in Western New York, to high school in Indiana, and to the University of Huddersfield in the United Kingdom. He has mixed feelings about possibly being a key figure in starting the adult coloring book movement with his Indie Rock Coloring Book in 2009. He’s done illustration work with clients including Nickelodeon, Google, Nutella and Converse. His podcast Creative Pep Talk has been featured by Apple, Buzzfeed and Design*Sponge.
At Midwest Craft Con, Andy’s giving a talk about staying true to yourself called Quit Hiding.
How would you describe yourself in 10 words or less?
Illustrator + Podcaster + Be-weird-in-public Enthusiast!
What is your earliest crafty memory?
The one that sticks out most in my mind is where you color an abstract piece of art with crayons, cover it in black crayon and then scrape off a picture! I WAS OBSESSED (STILL AM).
What is your favorite thing about the Midwest?
My No. 1 favorite thing is how down to earth the people are. I don’t like formalities or social games. I’ve lived in many different places, and I’ve yet to find folks that are so genuine so much of the time. It’s very refreshing.
What would you be if you weren’t an artist/creative?
I don’t know? Homeless? I don’t have a many other skills or inclinations. Honestly though, maybe a biologist?
What three things would you recommend to makers?
- Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuk. I think marketing has changed so dramatically in the past 15 years, and most people don’t seem to really understand this on a fundamental level. I think Gary is super clued-in to how to effectively market yourself in the 2016.
- Platform by Michael Hyatt. Super practical advice about putting yourself in a position for success by building your platform online.
- Simon Sinek’s Start With Why? TED Talk. You’ve probably seen it, but if you haven’t, I think it’s a gamer changer.
What are your personal resolutions for 2017?
Jog everything other day. It’s my favorite thing, and I want to do it more regularly!
What are your 2017 resolutions for your business/professional life?
I want to focus less on client stuff and more on my own products / podcast / class. I want to do only client work that’s a perfect fit, that really hits my sweet spot.
Midwest Craft Con 