Meet Nathan McCartney

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nathan McCartney.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was born in Wyoming and raised in Nebraska where I was constantly bored with my dirt road and cornfield surroundings. After joining an indie rock band and touring the rest of the states, I fell in love with Arizona’s desert scenery and decided to hang my hat in Tucson.

Please tell us about your art.
I sculpt and paint designer toys for kids and adults. I’ve released two soft vinyl figures in the past few years called “Stomak the Upset Stomach” and “Gordon the Garbage Goblin”. Both are characters I imagined and designed either alone or with the help of other like-minded artists. When I’m not sculpting or working with a sculptor to bring my ideas to life, I’m customizing other artist’s toys/figures for shows, conventions, and private collectors. I’ve always been fascinated with the way an object can impact a person based on its perceived ominous appearance. I’m constantly trying to elicit subtle feelings of dread while maintaining a whimsical overtone in everything I create. “This is fun but also creepy”. Think of the boat ride scene from Willy Wonka.

Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
Funding your life with art can be tough. When you’re starting out, it’s best to have some guaranteed income to take care of basic needs and bills. Get a job that doesn’t require you to be creative or artistic. That way, your bills are paid, you’ve got plenty of energy to create, and you might have a little extra cash to put back into your craft. Always be working on something new, and always be in the process of creation. Most of all, be yourself in everything you create. It pays off.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I post all of my work on Instagram under @natethemilkman. To support, give me a follow there, like and comment on posts you dig what you see, and check out my webstore by visiting natethemilkman.bigcartel.com.

Contact Info:

• Website: natethemilkman.bigcartel.com
• Email: natethemilkman@gmail.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/natethemilkman

Image Credit:
All shots taken or owned by Nathan McCartney

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