Bernard Rollins, most known by his handle bnardartwork, is a well known freelance illustrator who makes creations with a stroke. Though a Frederick based artist, Rollins’ artwork knows no bounds and travels near and far. Most recently, his image was used on Quavo’s chain of hip hop group Migos. Other famous clientele include: Complex, Smoke DZA, Action Bronson and more. Take a look at our interview with him!
Rep your hood:
I’m from Frederick, Maryland! Carver Apartments! FHS!
What kind of art do you craft?
Most of my art today is digital. I sketch and finalize every project with my MacBook Pro and Wacom Cintiq.
How did you start and why?
I’ve been drawing since I was young. I had a lot of support and influence from family members who were also artistic. Also being very competitive and wanting to be the best “drawer” in school growing up, haha.
Your favorite?
My favorite piece I’ve ever done is a portrait of my grandfather that I did in color pencil. Every time I look at it I’m amazed at the use of color and the blending. I must’ve used over 15 different colors. It’s a beautiful piece. I could never duplicate it or get back into that zone. It was one of the first portraits of a family member I’ve ever done and it was after he passed. I wish he could have seen it. He would have been proud.
Greatest Accomplishment?
You could say Quavo from Migos using my art to craft his iced out Ratatouille chain, having my own toy made, getting press, but the thing that I value the most are the relationships I build with the artists I admire. Which is always growing. I’m always meeting more artists, more clients, and that to me is the greatest accomplishment. Art has opened many doors for me and will continue to do so as long as my hands work. When I started putting myself out there and really pushing to get noticed it was a grind. Now people SEEK me and that’s a blessing. I wouldn’t trade that for anything.
What’s in the future?
The ultimate goal for me is to always create and express my vision through illustration be it through a vessel like Hip Hop culture or just Pop culture in general. I think that is my strength and people respond well to it.
View and purchase the infamous bnardartwork here. Support local talent!