For our January logo, we're ringing in the new year with fireworks
Meet Nelson Wu, the pixel artist behind the design that's taking us into 2020
Every month, we feature a new take on the CBC Arts logo created by a Canadian artist. Check out our previous logos!
Thanks to Nelson Wu, we're going into 2020 with a bang — a 16-bit bang! Get to know the Toronto-based pixel artist, as he answers our CBC Arts questionnaire.
Name: Nelson Wu
Age: 23
Homebase: Toronto
Let's talk about your design! What inspired your take on the CBC Arts logo?
Since the new year is coming up right around the corner, I wanted to celebrate the end of a decade on a positive note! Launching fireworks is such an iconic part of every New Year's Eve.
How did you get into doing pixel art?
It first started off as a group project with a couple friends at school. We all had a lot of fun making things and putting it all together. During the research process, I realized that pixel art isn't just stuck in the '80s, but a viable form of practice that can be used now. I started having a lot of fun seeing what I can make with the amount of pixels I had. I really enjoyed this methodical process.
What's the project you're most proud of?
Currently, it's the コンビニ (Konbini) series I made in the summer. It was a collection of all the things I saw and ate during my trip to Japan. Food and food packaging are some of my favourite things to draw!
Who is the last artist you discovered online?
The last artist I discovered is a pixel artist and they do really amazing pixel backgrounds and animations! They only have a twitter where they post their art (@jmw327). They're currently developing a game based around farming and raising animals!
What work of art do you wish you owned?
I haven't really thought of any framed painting or sculpture but I have been collecting art books lately. I've been looking to get Toyko Storefronts by Mateusz Urbanowicz since I love his work very much!
What's your favourite place to see art?
My favourite place to see art is art conventions such as Canzine or TCAF. It's wonderful to see artists in person and getting to know them.
Where can we see more from you? Any new projects on the horizon?
I'm currently working on an art book compiling plein air paintings from the past two years as well as a new series of illustrations! I aim to focus my efforts into making more things I love. You can find more of my work on Instagram and Twitter (@instant_onion) as well as my portfolio site.