Ready to create your own story?
Working with local experts we offer unique and engaging workshops to advance your hobbies and lead you through creative activities. Learn more about our current workshop here.
We are please to introduce you to one of our instructors: Perry Parker!
What workshops do you teach?
Gunpla (Gundam Plastic Models) Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced
How did you get into your specialty?
My artist friend Ben Bishop (The Last Ronin) was writing his graphic novel The Aggregate which has a giant post apocalyptic robot. To draw the bot in all its different positions he made a model of it using parts from a bunch of Gundam and car kits. I thought to myself, "I want to make a cool robot."
I went out that day and bought my first kit and have been hooked ever since.
How long have you been working at it?
Since 2016, so about 6 years
Did you receive any formal or informal education in your specialty?
Not really, I watched hundred of videos and tutorials on YouTube trying to learn all the tricks before I wrecked my own kits.
What’s the most difficult thing about your specialty?
My perfectionism. Sometimes I'm crippled by the thought that I might not build a kit perfectly. Stops me dead in my tracks. Eventually I tell myself that there is no such thing as a perfectly built kit, and that if I mess up there's always someway to fix it. Or hide it haha.
What’s the most rewarding?
Stepping back after hours of sanding, denubbing, and painting to reveal the finished kit. Also, getting a sticker placed perfectly on the first try.
What advice do you have to anyone just starting out?
Buy cheap kits at the start. And give yourself grace. You're just starting out, nobody expects you to get it right all at once.
Is there anything you wish you knew before starting?
It's okay to not be perfect. The imperfections are what make it your unique piece.
Also, you don't need the most expensive equipment when you start out. For the longest time I used an exacto knife and sand paper from the hardware store.
Do you have any mentors or inspirations?
-Modelmaking Guru: he really good at making a kit look beaten and battered by war and nature.
-ZakuAurelius: his reviews and tutorials are numerous and unmatched in quality
-Asrul Hasimin: he customized kits like its as easy as breathing. I can only dream of doing what he does
What other hobbies do you enjoy?
I'm also an illustrator, creating my own comics and paintings. I actually just printed my first graphic novel called Push/Pull.
Anything else you would like to share?
If you go to bed, close your eyes and all you can see is yourself sanding parts and finishing your latest kit, that's when you know you're hooked.
Where can people find your work online?
Facebook: Perry Parker
