Rudy-Jan Faber - self taught, winning artist from the Netherlands

Rudy Faber is a self taught illustrator based in Leeuwarden, the Netherlands.  He first came to my attention as 1st runner-up in the International Breakthrough contest.

Often, the real winner in any contest is the 1st runner up. Why? Because they know they have what it takes to win but fate hasn't allowed it this time. Generally they become even more determined to be successful. Someone's success isn't measured by a mere contest...it is measured throughout their lifetime. 

Rudy said, "I love illustrating pin-ups. Sometimes I choose bright and colorful themes with some urban, pop-art, lowbrow influences. Other times I enjoy painting dark, eerie and macabre themed illustrations. My main focus in my work is giving my characters lots of personality."

I love tattoos! You'll see Rudy's work in the Directory of Illustration now and in the 2013 book. 

Breakthrough judge comments on what made winner stand out

In a recent conversation, I asked one of my former clients and Breakthrough judge Joel Iskowitz, Illustrator,  what it is about the Breakthrough Contest winner Michal Dziekan's art that makes him stand out.

Joel commented, "Michal's work covers the basics of good illustration - excellent construction, composition and his technique was superb - but the extra attractiveness was his personal approach that filtered through his work to get his message across. Michal's personal vision and message was strong - his social read was very organic, his style was a natural out-growth of his own perception. It distilled his work into something very special that will appeal to the layperson as well as to the professional." Joel added his praise to Richard Solomon for this inspirational contest which he felt brought an added energy to our industry.

Rolling Stone’s Steve Charny and Eliza Sproul, Art Director / Via Agency were too busy for comment.

Joel Iskowitz's Medal of Honor design for the 2011 $5 Gold Commemorative Coin

Breakthrough contest winner

I recently read that there are more successful artists from Poland than anywhere else in the world so I was not surprised when Artist Representative, Richard Solomon called me to announce the winner of  “Breakthough” – the contest for artists worldwide. Michal Dziekan, michaldziekan.com, a 26 year old illustrator from Warsaw, Poland (freelance illustrator for book covers, editorial/advertising illustration, t-shirt/character designs, and animation) won. He was the selection of 20 Judges, all working industry pros, over 400+ entries from 15+ countries.

We wish Michal luck when he visits NYC Art Directors this Fall and know he’ll help his country in their bid to become “European Capital of Culture 2016”.

View the top 5 artists and meet the judges

Michal Dziekan