EP.017 - Andrew Fairclough // Illustrator & Founder of True Grit Texture Supply

Bedroom with Patrick Sean Gibson

Episode 17 - Andrew Fairclough // Illustrator. Designer. Founder.
"Andrew Fairclough is my Australian homie, and as the Aussies so perfectly put it, the dude’s a LEGEND, mate. He’s an accomplished visual artist who has worked with major clients like Miller Lite, Rolling Stone, Billabong, and ESPN Magazine. His work draws inspiration from mid-century spot illustrations, vintage sci-fi, comics, and the textured beauty of degraded print. If you’re not familiar with his artwork, you might know him for the company he founded: True Grit Texture Supply.
True Grit is a company that produces high-quality digital brushes, textures, and effects, enabling artists working in digital programs to create top-tier work. It’s no secret that Andrew’s brushes are some of the best in the business.
In November of 2022, Andrew released a pack called “Kolormarc,” and I had the privilege of collaborating with him on it, creating some of the key art for the pack. The Kolormarc digital brushes are designed to emulate alcohol-based markers. After watching the “Raindrop” music video by Hot Flash Heat Wave, which I co-directed and hand-animated with Copic markers, Andrew reached out and we became friends. He eventually invited me to test out the digital version of those markers. And let me tell you - these things are a freaking blast to use!
In this episode of BEDROOM™, Andrew talks about his journey from business school to the creative world of graphic design. He shares how his business background helped fuel his creative entrepreneurship, but he also admits that the success of True Grit Texture Supply happened pretty organically. Andrew reflects on how the company grew out of a gap in the market and offers insights into hustle culture, explaining why chasing metrics like follower counts can actually hinder the growth of your project.
We then geek out over the intricacies of how Andrew develops custom digital brushes and dive into the process behind it. We also discuss the criticism some digital artists face and why the medium shouldn’t define the artwork itself. From there, we explore Andrew’s work in the poster world, where he’s designed posters for bands like The Pixies, Blink-182, and Pearl Jam. We also chat about navigating the tricky world of working for exposure- when it’s worth it and how to make it work for you. Stay tuned for the end of the episode where Andrew shares some valuable advice for up-and-coming artists and drops a few hints about what’s dropping in the 2025 for True Grit releases.
Big shout outs to Andrew for coming onto the pod. Welcome to the BEDROOM™, y’all! WORLD WIDE PEACE!” - PSG
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Andrew Fairclough's Socials & Websites:
Kindred Studio Website: www.kindredstudio.net
Kindred Studio Instagram: @kindred_studio
True Grit Texture Supply Website: www.truegrittexturesupply.com
True Grit Texture Supply Instagram: @truegrittexturesupply

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If you want to join Patrick Sean Gibson's Monthly Sticker Club, or support the Bedroom Podcast, check out his Patreon: patreon.com/patrickseangibson
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Follow Patrick on Instagram: @patrickseangibson
Peep Patrick's Website: patrickseangibson.com