Get down

Director Tim Burton’s ability to twist and tweak what’s considered “normal” is inspiration for Kevin Tong’s artwork.

That the moviemaker can take a sherbet colored neighborhood in the film Edward Scissorhands, and turn it on its head – well, that’s what Tong seeks to do, too.

“It’s real life, but you don’t have to follow the rules,” said Tong, who is based in Los Angeles.

There are many influences on Tong's work. But the 25-year old artist has singled out Burton by banning himself from watching Edward Scissorhands for ten years as a quirky test of self-discipline. (He has about six years left.) But Tong has taken Burton’s philosophy and run with it, building up an enviable portfolio during his short career.

Tong has created concert posters in a gorgeous comic-book/antiquated style for a long list of big-name bands including Beck, Rilo Kiley, Weezer and The Shins. His first big poster was for one of his favorites: Built to Spill. It’s an ideal mix for a talented artist who also happens to be a music lover.

Better yet? “It’s the last vestige of where you can truly be free as an illustrator,” Tong said.