Country: United States

BIO of Ben Nelesen, from a self conducted interview.
June 07, 2009

Who are you?

--- Ben Nelesen,

Where do you reside?

--- ...excuse me?

Where do you live?

--- Sorry. Portland, Oregon, United States.

What do you do?

--- To generate income, I work from home, doing freelance design, primarily branding and packaging for the toy industry. I also dabble in my shop making toys, gadgets, and devices of amusement.

Anything good coming out of the shop?

--- Absolutely not. One disaster after another. But it's a good place to be.

How did you get here?

--- I started by drawing portraits of pretty girls in high school, which flattered them to no end. The intended result was not achieved, however, as one after another promptly and enthusiastically ran off to show them to their boyfriends. ...I persevered, continued to draw, taking Saturday life drawing classes at Art Center, Passadena. Fell in love. Went to Junior College to work on my chops. Flash forward 5 years, I graduate with a degree from Art Center in Fine Art / Illustration, a wife, and a baby on the way. I moved to Portland and landed a 6 year gig in a warehouse driving a forklift, making art on the side, deep into the early morning. Got fed up. I thought myself graphic design on an state of the art Mac Performa PPC, using bootleg design software. (I am totally legit, now). Little jobs, here and there. Got a gig with a local budding toy company, and took ride which lasted 8+ years.

Learned how to work fast, make something from nothing, and collaborate with a global cast of characters from all backgrounds, interests and moral codes. Left my position as Creative Director to peruse my dreams and take care of the home-front. Presently and pleasantly freelancing.  In addition to the packaging and branding, I dabble in Illustration and product design. Skate a little. Rock a little. Fender, Gibson, Big Muff.

Zzzzzzzzz....

--- Hey!

Sorry. Tell me bout your FUSE Kayak Illustration.

--- I wanted to follow the theme and see if I could convey the lunatic fun that we are occasionally blessed with experiencing in this life. Tongue out, stupid smile, the whole "If I die today, well thats OK" feeling. Driven, looking for fun, from the cradle to the grave. The beginning (knowing), middle (experiencing), and end (reflecting). I also like friendly monsters and hot-rod culture.

What are you going to do with your boat?

Get soaked.

Great! Well, congratulations again, and thanks for your time.

--- My time is your time! So, you're welcome! -and thank you!