Meet Darren Toliver

We’ve got an excellent illustrator in the books for y’all today. Enter Darren Toliver, a master mind of 2D work, creating images inspired by cartoons and comics — and y’all know we love some good cartoons.

We pick this creative’s brain about the relationship between social media and art, debate the heyday of cartoons, and the productivity benefits of quarantine. 

Give it a gander and be sure to peep his instagram to get your hands on lots of neat stickers!

Two Truths and a Lie (answer at the end of the interview)

• Blue is my favorite color.

• I grew up on a farm.

• I was born abroad.

Would you rather…

your bed breathe heavily, or narrate everything you are doing.

Narrate everything I'm doing.

Some questions with Jordan Segal

Which do you prefer scented candles or room spray?

Scented candles, scents linger longer.

How do you feel about the role social media plays in an artist's career?

I love it, I think using social media is a great way for people to connect that wouldn't have otherwise. I'm really shy so it's easier to connect with those that have similar interests as me.I can just 'like' a bunch of things and 'follow' people without being overwhelmed. I can also give insight to whatever I was thinking when making a piece of art at any given moment, something you can only speculate about when art is hanging on a wall. I also be spontaneous and create something on 'LIVE' and get instant feedback.  

Which was better: Cartoon Network or Nickelodeon?

The 90s kid in me says, Cartoon Network, but Nickelodeon was 'edgier'. They both had a tremendous impact on me and developing a style. Cartoons in the 90s were a lot more daring and mature, grotesque sometimes. Nickelodeon had shows like Aaahh! Real Monsterz, Ren and Stimpy, Rocket Power, and live shows like 'Are You Afraid of the Dark?'. All I remember fondly, all helped shape my style in some way. Cartoon Network, on the other hand, had a lot of classic cartoons from the 70s & 80s that I loved and always go back to. All the Hanna-Barbera shows like Scooby-Doo, Jonny Quest, Space Ghost, and The Jetsons are things I constantly go back to for inspiration. Anime was also introduced to me via Cartoon Network which has had a big influence on me as well.

Who are your favorite artists active in NYC?

Visual artist, Yuko Shimizu (one of my favorite illustrators). Musical artist, BK-based R&B/Funk/Hip-hop group Phony Ppl.

How has your quarantine been going?

Great! Probably the greatest thing to happen to my creativity and drive. I have more time now to draw and create than I've ever had, I don't have to squeeze in time for it during my day.

What was the best toy you remember from your childhood?

Nintendo NES. Donkey Kong, Mario Kart, Super Mario. All classics.

Have other forms of media influenced your concepts and characters?

Yes, I love to watch movies and listen to music to help with the creative process. I'm really into 80s sci-fi and horror movies, I loved all things comic books and superheroes growing up, and I love to people-watch.

Any final comments? (This is your electronic soapbox for one last answer.)

Be on the lookout for new and exciting things from me really soon! Stickers, T-shirts, and zines! Follow me on IG: @dkt_draws

Two Truths and a Lie Key

• Truth: Blue is my favorite color.

• Lie: I grew up on a farm.

• Truth: I was born abroad.