Ben Heine: Pencil vs Camera

Ben Heine is an illustrator and photographer, known mostly for his "pencil vs camera series" where drawings and photos meet. Who is he and what else is he doing?

We have noticed your drawing/photo combos being shared on facebook. You, however, do more than add pencil sketches to photos. Could you introduce your works to our readers?

I’m a photographer, illustrator and painter. My work got noticed worldwide thanks to my recent “Pencil Vs Camera” series, mixing drawing and photography. 

What made you do those unique combinations?

I’ve been drawing and taking pictures since a long time so I thought it could be fun to combine 2 of my passions. I didn’t expect this project would generate so much interest.

Your website says you were born in the Ivory Coast. What happened that you moved to Europe and work here?

It’s just a coincidence of life. I was born in Abidjan and lived there 7 years. I only have good and warm memories from the childhood I had there. My family came back to Brussels in 1990 due to severe political troubles and insecurity in that country (the situation is unfortunately not getting much better nowadays). I grew up in Brussels until now (I just lived one year in England and 6 months in The Netherlands during my studies).

Your works are being exhibited in the USA and possible elsewhere – how is this going?

Very well so far, there is currently an ongoing exhibition in a US gallery (in Jacksonville). My works are also shown in several galleries in Belgium. I’m looking for other art galleries abroad. In the past years, I’ve had the chance to exhibit my creations in Great Britain, Turkey, Romania, France, Canada, Germany, Brazil, South Korea, Spain and Palestine.

Do you have any books out, or work for magazines?

No books right now, but tons of publications in national and international papers/magazines. I don’t work for any specific title; I’m focusing on personal creative projects.

How important is the Internet for you?

It is very important. It has brought me many benefits and professional opportunities.

Your favorite painters, illustrators, writers are?

I love René Barjavel’s books. He was a French science fiction author. I also admire Andy Warhol.

Favorite band / DJ?

wow, quite a lot! I’d say Bob Marley & The Wailers is still one of my all time favorite bands. 

Websites you like to visit?

Hundreds of Art and Design websites like Fubiz, Abduzeedo, Designers Couch…

Plans for 2011?

I intend to go abroad and live an experience in an art residency with other artists. I also want to focus more on traditional painting and sculpture.

www.benheine.com
www.flickr.com/photos/benheine
www.benheine.deviantart.com
www.facebook.com/Ben-Heine/45292293615