I am a freelance illustrator and graphic designer, born and raised in the Netherlands. I graduated from the Rotterdam Lyceum for Graphic Arts, after which I started an 14 year career doodling stuff. I've worked for ad agencies and design companies, but the first half of my career I mostly worked for record companies, both full time and freelance, creating designs and art for eveything from CDs/vinyl records (in just about every type of music and scene,) to things like, posters, flyers, t-shirts, merchandise, websites, etc.
In 1998 I met the love of my life who lived on the other side of the world. So in 2002, I moved to the US and married her. (Vegas wedding! Oh yes.)
For the past 7 years, I've been a freelancer in Los Angeles, California. During that time, my work has included things like: commissioned illustrations, posters, T-shirts, ads, record sleeves, CD covers, flyers, logos, brochures, portraits, business cards, etc. for clients in the US, Canada, Europe and Australia.
METHODS:
I've always used both conventional methods (pencil, ink, paint, etc.) and digital, although these days I mainly work with the Wacom Intuos 3 Graphic Pen. Was hesitant at first, but once I really got to work with it I never looked back. It and Photoshop are a modern artist's best friends.
DISCLAIMER:
This site (and all art in it) was created and is maintained by myself. Nothing here may be used without my permission.
On that same note, any existing people shown here, or copyrighted characters from movies, comics, etc, all belong to their respective copyright owners. I am not selling any of those shown here and no money is being made on them in any way. Any appearance on this site of anything not copyrighted by me is done purely as fan appreciation.
FAQ
What kinda name is 'Arco'?
-Mine. Not the name on my Passport, but it's what my parents have called me since birth. (It's a Dutch thing. Don't ask)
Do you take other commissions or jobs if I ask?
-I am a freelance artist and am always open to assignments. Ask away.
I see mostly Fantasy art. You still do music covers and logo design and stuff?
-Sure, but most of that stuff is over in my Graphic Design site. This part of my portfolio is dedicated to my illustration work. I've included a link on the left if you want to check out my graphic design work.
Can you make me something for free?Maybe?
-No and no. I do this for a living. I have to eat. And buy stuff. I like stuff. So does my wife.
Can you teach me how to make stuff like yours?
-Unfortunately, I don't have time to make tutorials. I can tell you what I use, but really, it's all about doing it. A lot. Just find out what works best for you. It took me years to work stuff out and... I'm actually still working it out. There's no magic trick.
Can I use your art for my group? It's a hobby graphic group. We don't alter or use it anywhere and we'll credit you.
-I used to sometimes say yes but I've had some trouble with it as people didn't always keep their word. So these days I just say no. Sorry. No offense.
Will you marry me?
-Already married, so stop ASKING, please. Unless you're Eliza Dushku. Then you can be Wife #2. (Really, Wife #1 is cool with it. I think :)