S1,E18: Fantasy Artist - Howard Lyon

Small Lake City

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Embark on a fantastical voyage with the illustrious Howard Lyon as he paints a vivid picture of his evolution from a dragon-doodling youngster to a masterful artist for Magic: The Gathering and Brandon Sanderson's enchanting novels. Our conversation threads through Howard's early infatuation with the artistry of fantasy and Dungeons & Dragons, revealing how these childhood passions laid the groundwork for his remarkable career. As we journey through the chapters of Howard's life, he recounts the pivotal moments that led him from the digital landscapes of video game design to the tangible delights of the canvas, showcasing the courage it takes to follow one's true calling.
As if pulling back the curtain on a grand stage, Howard offers an intimate glance into the synergy between art and technology, detailing his transformative years in the video game industry. His experiences weave together the analytical mind of an engineer with the boundless imagination of an artist, a combination that propelled his creative endeavors from pixel art to full-fledged painting. Our exchange delves into the importance of seizing opportunities and how a persistent pursuit of passion can shape an artist's journey. Howard's personal anecdotes serve as a testament to the idea that staying true to oneself, even in the face of tempting offers from industry giants, can lead to a more fulfilling path.
Wrapping up our enlightening dialogue, Howard reflects on the embrace of nerd culture, the collective excitement of shared interests, and the vibrant Utah art community that he calls home. We explore how his dedication to art and travel interlaces with his desire to connect with others, be it through leading painting retreats in Italy or capturing the essence of a Hawaiian sunset. Howard's story is not just about chasing dreams, but about the richness of experiencing diverse cultures, the warmth of shared enthusiasm, and the inspiring tapestry of life's serendipitous encounters. Join us for this captivating episode, where imagination soars, and the power of art truly comes to life.

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Chapters

1. From Crayons to Dungeons and Dragons (00:00:00)

2. From Drawing to Video Games (00:07:19)

3. Tech and Art in Video Games (00:15:01)

4. Passion, Fulfillment, and Following One's Path (00:27:34)

5. Show Up, Take Opportunities (00:40:18)

6. Exploring Nerddom and Cultural Dedication (00:54:59)

7. Skill Development and Artistic Mastery (01:03:29)

8. Art and the Utah Art Community (01:11:35)

9. Artist's Passion for Travel and Painting (01:27:42)

10. Art and Travel Appreciation and Enthusiasm (01:38:33)