Eric “Chroneco” Christiandi is a 24 year old self-taught artist from Bandung, Indonesia. He is a Dota 2 workshop artist who works with Valve and WeLoveFine to turn his artwork into merchandise. It’s no surprise that we collaborated with Chroneco to turn his fun artwork into a limited edition Dota 2 Arctis headset. We sat down with him to ask him about art, gaming, and what it’s like to be a Steam workshop artist.
How did your artistic career begin?
While I was working as a game programmer, I submitted some designs to Dota 2 workshop for the 2015 New Bloom event, as well as for The International 5. I was pretty surprised when the designs were approved and would be sold at the Secret Shop at TI5. In 2016, I made art more of a focus and began working as freelancer artist focusing on chibi characters.
What do you feel is good or bad about your decision to leave programming and pursue art?
I honestly love both drawing and coding. While I do miss programming, I feel that moving to art has given me more challenges and more space to improve.
Tell us about your unique art style.
It was mostly influenced by anime-style drawings, especially the cute ("chibi") style.
How long does it take you to create a piece from start to finish?
It depends - sometimes it takes few hours, and sometimes few days. However, the “All Pick” one (on the headset) took me around three weeks to finish. The majority of that one was studying and planning how to put the whole thing together.
Wow, it's clear that you're big Dota 2 fan. Whose is your favorite hero?
Oh definitely Crystal Maiden and Bounty Hunter.
Any favorite players?
Kuroky, PieLieDie, and EternalEnvy.
What streams do you watch?
I usually watch Singsing’s stream and AdmiralBulldog on Youtube.
What is being an artist on the Steam workshop like?
It’s really fun being able to design merchandise with Dota 2 characters. Everytime I submit new design, I really can’t wait to know whether it will be approved or not.
How long does it take for one of your designs to be approved once you submit it?
It really depends, since it’s up to Valve and WeLoveFine to decide.
What's it like seeing your artwork used for both merchandise (like our headset), as well as decor at major events like The International?
It's honestly unbelievable. The first time they told me they were going to use my art for the decor at TI5, it was so exciting. I really hope that it makes people smile when they see it.
What is your dream project?
Maybe I don't have any lofty goals - I just want to create art that makes people smile.
What advice do you have for aspiring workshop artists?
Just go submit your artwork! :D
