Are you working on something new at the moment?
I always have a lot of ideas and projects in mind and that is what keeps me motivated. I am currently working hard on a comic book project. When I am feeling ready, I will look for a publisher that fits my style.
What influenced your aesthetic and current style?
I have always drawn. There was never any triggering factor that led me to do that. I feel like drawing is a part of me and is a real addiction. Drawing makes me feel peaceful. To be honest, I don’t know much about comics; I haven’t read many comic books and those I read when I was a kid were very basic. That might explain the big noses and the childish/naive spirit of my artwork. Currently, I enjoy mixing the classical comics style with the freedom that contemporary comics offer.
What is the narrative and intent behind your works and technique?
I try to disclose the charm of banalities in my artwork and to illustrate moments of life usually perceived as meaningless. I am a good observer; I like to study people’s behavior in their everyday life. The outcome of this study is the central focus of my work. From a technical point of view, I really value the use of non-digital tools. I love stains and imperfections left by a pencil or a marker. I think it creates a more genuine link with the spectator.
Is the place you were born reflected in your art?
My family comes from Southern Belgium. I spent my childhood on the outskirts of Brussels and I currently live in Brussels. When I draw, I try to gather elements originating from these different backgrounds. I believe that these various influences represent a real added value to my work.
Is there a sports background to your work?
I started my artistic education by making animated films so movement has a great impact on my current work. But I am more attracted to movement as such rather than sports. If I ever have to work on a sports event, I will rather be observing and drawing what is going on in the bar.
What would you cite as sources of inspiration?
To avoid being repetitive, I would like to share a (non-exhaustive) list of things that inspire me: kitsch, stuff that is kind of lame, American-looking Belgian nature, events under a party tent, hand-rolled cigarettes yellowing your mustache, failed taxidermy, Anouk Ricard, Jim Shaw, episode 20 of season 2 of The Office, « Travis the Singing Trout », bowling polo-shirts, Jul, swings for chickens…
BIO / Léo Gillet is 24 years old and graduated from the field of illustration/sculpture after completing a 5-year course at the School of Graphic Research (ERG) in Brussels in 2019. Currently, he works for magazines and runs cultural workshops for young people.
