My name is Micah Simpson.

I am an illustrator and concept artist.

Currently based out of Palmetto, Florida, I am completing a BFA in illustration at Ringling College of Art and Design with an emphasis in Visual Development. My work explores character concepts, creature designs, and fantastical narratives. Watching a character come to life on paper and on screen inspires me to develop my characters and stories. As I continue my artistic journey, I want to tell stories that inspire future generations of creatives to pick up a pencil, find their artistic voices, and share their own stories.

I am primarily a traditional artist with graphite and ink being my mediums of choice. I use graphite and ink interchangeably to establish visual interest and energy through line and shape design. I am also proficient with oil paints, markers, charcoal, and digital tools, such as: Photoshop, Illustrator, and ZBrush.

My work is heavily influenced by the films and action cartoons that I grew up watching. Don Bluth’s films, like the Secret of NIMH, and animated series such as, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Ben 10, and Teen Titans, were among some of my personal favorites. They had a sense of energy and life to them, while simultaneously exploring darker and more complex subjects than your average morning cartoon. I am also inspired by comic book artists. Jim Lee and Tony Moore were among the first artists that fueled my young artistic fire. As I got older, I discovered and incorporated the concepts and techniques of the Golden Age Illustrators, like Franklin Booth, Dean Cornwell, and J. C. Leyendecker.

Outside of my studio, I am a big gamer, I play guitar, watch movies, and listen to loud music.