“Seasoned, yet humble. Lowkey, yet eccentric. Winning, yet forever hungry.” These are just a few ways to describe Justin Richburg, a distinctively artistic illustrator and animator hailing from North Philadelphia, PA. With a massive online following drawn to his innovative animation, Justin is setting benchmarks and carving out a unique space in the creative world.
But what fuels the artist behind the viral animations and high-profile collaborations, like with Childish Gambino on the musician’s Feels Like Summer music video? For Justin, it’s less about waiting for inspiration and more about cultivating the focus of an athlete.
“I look at myself as an athlete,” Justin explains, “because when you have long sessions of work, your mind gotta be focused.” It’s a philosophy that shapes his entire approach. Staying driven requires a clear goal, but also taking care of the fundamentals: “You can’t do that if you don’t have your body in order, like exercising and eating right, plus taking many breaks.” It’s this “momentum-driven” process, built on discipline and well-being, that allows him to consistently create.
That momentum fuels a workflow deeply inspired by the dynamic world of anime. “I watch a lot of anime,” he shares. “I’m inspired by Dragon Ball Z by the way their ears are drawn, Season 1 of Attack on Titan by the thickness of the lines, and Jujutsu Kaisen for its simple character design and smooth fight animations.”
Justin’s process translates these influences into a streamlined workflow. Starting with straightforward storyboards, he focuses on what he calls “stand-out moments.” These are the key parts of any video where he invests the most effort, the scenes designed to capture attention and, often, go viral.
This knack for capturing attention was evident in his contribution to Childish Gambino’s iconic Feels Like Summer music video. While he modestly notes he wasn’t focused on the animation mechanics back then – “Honestly, at that time, I didn’t know how to do animation” – his role was crucial. “I specifically came into that project for the vibes and the character designs,” he clarifies. He established the visual tone and designed the characters that overseas animators would bring to life, liaising with Gambino’s manager to ensure the feel was right.
When animating for music now, the challenge lies in “the pacing and making sure the imagery matches up with the music.” How does he achieve that synergy? “Honestly, just vibing to the song,” he says. “If I can vibe to it, it’s easy to imagine the visuals for the project.” The tone of the track dictates the style: “If it’s a serious song, I tend to take on a more realistic style than I would if it were goofy and more comic.”
Underpinning his ability to tackle diverse projects and styles is a hard-won confidence. “Honestly, the only thing that’s evolved is my confidence,” Justin reflects. “I used to think I couldn’t do all the fancy things… But once my confidence developed, I could easily do everything.”
Part of that confidence comes from having the right tools. Justin relies on Adobe Photoshop and Final Cut Pro, brought to life through his Wacom gear. He appreciates tools that simplify the process, letting him focus on the creative work. Speaking about the role of digital illustration and his tools, he cuts straight to the point: “Honestly, there’s [not] much to say. What I can really say is Wacom makes my life easier.”
He’s currently using the new Wacom Movink, valuing its portability and ease of use. “Right now I use the Movink tablet, becuase it’s easier to move around and work wherever,” he notes. “I just like to use products that keep it very simple and basic for me so I don’t have to think too much when I’m working.”
While he’s grateful for any collaboration that comes his way, Justin’s current focus is on his own narrative projects. “I’m focused on creating short films like my Batman Beyond Broken Will short film, and eventually I want to make full-length movies. I’m also working on my webtoon, Kayla.”
His advice for aspiring artists eyeing collaborations within the music industry? Build support and stay ready. “Make sure you have a strong team that can take your career to the next level, faith and preparation.”
Justin Richburg’s journey is a testament to talent amplified by a unique mindset, dedication, and the right creative technology. He’s an artist who understands the power of momentum, the importance of vibes, and the creative freedom that comes with confidence and streamlined tools like those from Wacom.
About the artist
Justin Richburg is a Philadelphia-based artist who has established his own brand with his
innovative animation that set the benchmark to a whole new world of creative opportunities.
Seasoned, yet humble. Lowkey, yet eccentric. Winning, yet forever hungry. These are the many traits of Justin Richburg, the ever-so controversial and distinguishably artistic illustrator hailing from “Norf Philly.”
