Daily Inspiration: Meet Quill Kolat

Today we’d like to introduce you to Quill Kolat. 

Hi Quill, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
I have loved making art for as long as I can remember. As a kid, I channeled a lot of energy into creative projects. I was always drawing, painting, or building something. After a while, I realized that’s what I wanted to do all the time, so I went to Cleveland Institute of Art for illustration. I put that degree to use in various creative roles around Northeast Ohio. My current role is Creative Manager at Snowbright Studio. We are an LGBTQ+ game studio dedicated to creating unique, heartwarming, and inclusive physical and digital games. I also continue to create my own art in my free time that I display and sell at shows and conventions. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I feel so fortunate to be where I am in my career as an artist, but it hasn’t always been a smooth road. A major struggle for many artists and myself is burnout. There is a lot of hustle and grind built into creative work because it comes from a place of passion. On a few occasions, I have pushed myself well past my limit, and it’s taken a toll on my physical or mental health. Learning to manage my time and respect my limits is a constant journey. 

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I love making cute, cheeky, and bright art! My work often focus on animals and food, two of my favorite things. I’m a big fan of horror and all things spooky. Monsters and cryptids frequently find their way into my work as well. I am also a muralist and comic creator. 

One of my most recent projects was a tabletop roleplaying game book I created with Snowbright Studio called Teatime Adventures. I love working by hand when possible, so I illustrated the book cover and several interior pieces in watercolor and colored pencil. One of the most gratifying experiences is seeing people react to my art at shows. I love seeing them smile when they see a bunch of animals carrying a picnic lunch through a field and then ask what this adorable creation could be. I poured a lot of heart and soul into Teatime Adventures, so it means the world to me that people like it so much. 

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Networking can be intimidating. A good place to start is social media. There are so many online organizations folks can join to meet others in their field. I was lucky to find a lot friends through local drink-and-draw groups. Join a local drawing group. Go to events where professionals will be and bring your work to share. I and many other creative folks love looking at our peers’ work and will happily give feedback when possible. 

Contact Info:

• Website: quillkolat.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quillkolat/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/quillkolat
• Other: https://snowbrightstudio.com/

Image Credits
Quill Kolat