Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler Albrektsen
Tyler, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I was born and raised in Chula Vista in the 90s. Typical 90s kid loved skateboarding (still do) video games, cartoons, comics, etc. Attended Bonita HS. After graduation entered the US Army. Completed training and was assigned to Fairbanks AK! Deployed with 172nd SBCT to Iraq in 2005. Was injured during combat for which I revived a Purple Heart. My unit was well known. I deployed again in 2008-09 to Iraq. After returning became an Army recruiter in TX for 2.5 years. Exited military service due to PTSD and other injuries. Began college in San Francisco in 2014. Studied industrial design initially, then. Switched to graphic design. Worked in various print shops learning fine art printing and offset printing. Returned home to SD to continue studying 3D modeling to become a toy designer. Recently engaged to Emily L. Gonzales during the Kaboo music Fest and were featured on FM100.7
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
My favorite thing to do is illustrate, and I love taking things that aren’t supposed to go together and bringing them to life. Like something that’s usually supposed to be cute and adorable, I want to make hideous and monstrous. My art is a reflection of my life experiences. Through my illustrations, 3D sculptures/prints, animations, and even video content I remind the world that there are monsters and ugliness everywhere don’t shy away from it. Instead, stare it directly in the eyes and show the ugliness of the world you are not afraid and will not back down. As a veteran of war, after losing many friends, I now try to share the message of peace through resiliency.
Any advice for aspiring or new artists?
For other artists, be willing to work with and seek out others. Don’t forget to do the “Social” part of social media, and it’s crucial that we reach out and ask for help or collaborative effort. Be patient; it takes persistence and love for your craft to finally find the artist groove you are seeking. Lastly, listen to and absorb all you can from the other successful creatives around you, find out what they are doing that works and try to emulate.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
At the moment, my work is limited to Instagram @uncommondesigner and on Behance (@uncommondesigner). I will soon be releasing my website, featuring prints, t-shirts/hoodies, designer toys, and enamel pins. People can also follow my Toy company Veteran Toy Guys (VTG) on Instagram. I and other veterans operate a vendor booth at many smaller San Diego Local Comic Conventions like Rocket Con, IntergalactiCon, VFW Toy Show and others. We raise money for various charities and organizations through our comic and toy sales.
Contact Info:
- Email: tyler.albrektsen@gmail.com
- Instagram: @uncommondesigner
- Facebook: @uncommonl_ldesign
- Other: @theveterantoyguys
Image Credit:
Illustrations/photos are all work/property of Tyler Albrektsen aka UncommonDesigner
Cosplay photo credits
Tyler Albrektsen :model
Phouc Nguyen :editor
Christian Villareal: Photographer
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
