Ever seen one of those artistic pieces that just catch your eye? Something new and unique. That’s what artist William Rosa has to offer. His immaculate and pixie like horror inspired characters have a personality of their own. His work will tickle the fancy of any horror lover, or any non-horror lover as well. His artwork includes serial killer art, Stephen King, Tarantino, horror films of all kind, Tv show icons, musicians, and more!
Since the age of 16, William stated to really indulge in his artwork. All though he has been artistic all of his life. William also spent 6 years in the Navy on active duty. Not only has he dove into the world of digital art but has worked in Hollywood as a special effects makeup artist, a tattoo artist, illustration, painting, and worked as a sculptor. Currently William centralizes his time on digital art.
We asked William some questions about his life as an artist, enjoy!
Horror Nation: Who are your biggest influences?
William: My biggest influence would be my wife, she is my muse. 10 years ago, I was in an artistic rut. She came into my life and helped revive my passion for art.
Horror Nation: Who inspires you? What connection do they have to your art?
William: Inspiration. Movies have always been my greatest source of inspiration.
Artists, H.R. Giger was my first. Hajime Sorayama, Sebastian Krüger, Brian Viveros, Greg Craola Simpkins
Tattoo artists Paul Booth & Jesse Smith.
FX artists, Stan Winston, Kevin Yagher, Rob Bottin. I’m sure all of these artists have influenced my art in one way or another, even if just for motivation.
Horror Nation: When did you start creating this specific type of art?
William: I started doing digital illustration in August of 2019.
Horror Nation: Do you create custom pieces?
William: Yes, I do create custom pieces. If a commission comes along and I’m interested, of course I’ll jump at the opportunity.
Horror Nation: What’s your favorite scary movie (bwahaha)?
William: My favorite SCARY movie….. John Carpenter’s, The Thing.
Horror Nation: Is there a meaning or story to why your re-created artworks don’t have eyes?
William: The eyes. Lol. Well, I suppose it was just me taking creative license. I’ve seen vacant looking eyes in other styles of art and I really liked how it looked. I’ve always liked the idea of creating fan art that was a bit creepy and cute. My current approach to these illustrations is influenced in part by a Japanese style known as chibi, basically a child-like character with exaggerated features. I noticed that some artists designed chibis with “no feet” which is probably why my pieces have somewhat of an “amputee” appearance, even though, it was definitely not my intention to make them amputees. I just kind of liked the look.
Horror Nation: Which piece(s) are you most proud of?
William: My proudest pieces would probably be my commissioned works. I feel a greater sense of accomplishment because of the appreciation from the collectors, because I created something more personal or important to them.
Horror Nation: What do you value most about being an artist?
William: I value the ability to touch others with something I created. Something that they can relate to and appreciate. I feel fortunate be able to take my love for movies, music, TV, videogames etc. and create something to celebrate infinite icons and share it with others. Others who can rejoice in my capturing something they also love, in a creative and unusual way.
Horror Nation: If you can change one thing about the world, what would it be?
William: If I could change one thing about the world, what would it be? I’d make “hate” a thing of the past. There is too much hatred in this world.
There is something for everyone and William is always open for commission pieces, there is also a massive amount of characters to choose from on Etsy. His artwork is available for purchase at:
Art of Barcode
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheArtOfBarcode?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=778722095