Coffee in my left hand and my right thumb flicking through Instagram is usually how I get my daily dose of Travis Millard’s work. Whether it’s his main account, @theotherfudge, which showcases his main work, or the invite-only @theotherotherotherfudge that has more work geared towards the adult with a good sense of humor and an affinity for cute birds with big dicks.
Both are good receptors of Travis’ sense of humor and wit, which is what drew me to his work, the work of a young illustrator looking to make people laugh. His consistent illustration style and tongue-in-cheek ideas have spanned a long career for the Los Angeles illustrator. As a peer advocate against all things serious, I am glad I got to chat with him about what’s up with his life.
Life is fucking hard as a creative, right? You’ve done pretty well at diversifying yourself through multiple outlets to allow people to access and own your work. Whether it’s someone like me who has some zines and prints, or someone with original pieces. Is there something else you aspire for? Or have you found the perfect formula to sustain a living doing what you love?
Ah, thank you. Yeah, I think it’s incredibly challenging. I’ve always been open to new territory and just trying to see my drawings in other ways. There’s usually something to learn from it for better or worse. I think it also comes from just being restless and wondering what else is around the next corner. I don’t think there is a perfect formula for me.—it’s like an evolving quest. My friend Tim Kerr said something I like to keep in mind: “One foot in front of the other with my five senses open wide, hoping I haven’t seen or done the best thing yet.. as it should be (smile).”
I read somewhere about all the emails you get from people asking for advice and how hard it is to get back to everyone. You actually responded to me once and it was probably some of the best advice I’ve ever gotten. So thanks for that. You ever think about how far your influence goes and how maybe you could be responsible for a kid’s success?
Oh! Well, that’s good to hear. I try to respond if I can, but sometimes it’s just too complex I think. Asking someone how to make a living doing art is like trying to explain how to find your way through a forest. It’s really so different for everyone, and each path is it’s own way through. I’m happy to know whatever I said was good advice for you. I guess I don’t think much about myself influencing others. It’s too abstract, and I’m usually just busy wondering what the fuck I’m doing.
Read our full featured interview with Travis in upcoming issue 12 out September 30th. Pre-order the issue here.
