Codey Anderson is a veteran artist who began his career working in the animation industry. Keen for a challenge, Codey joined the Australian Army in 2012. He has since spent many years serving in the Infantry and has experienced the operational environment first-hand.
Now a full-time illustrator, Codey has culminated his military experience creating countless comic strips, published a graphic novel and continues producing logos and imagery for defence and other veteran owned businesses.
What originally made you enlist into the Army?
I was always interested in the military - I was attracted by the challenge and camaraderie that comes with it. I enlisted into the infantry over 12 years ago, where I spent most of my career as a Rifleman in RSS platoon at 6RAR.
How/why did you start illustrating?
I started drawing when I was young, just like any other kid. Throughout my childhood, I kept practising, trying to replicate artwork that I had seen in comic books and in cartoons. Over time, I learned what worked for me and what didn’t, I tried more and more advanced shading techniques and eventually started paid projects.
What do you enjoy about illustrating?
I’ve always been somewhat of an introvert, so working quietly by myself has always come naturally to me. It allows me to immerse myself in my work and create something from nothing. I am always approached by people with some really crazy concepts they want brought to life. Some are more challenging than others, which makes the job very interesting.
My graphic novel ‘Hard Struck’ was a passion project where I not only got to write and illustrate my first book, but it allowed me to raise awareness around PTSD, which I learnt a lot about during my service. The book was very well received by the community, and it has inspired me to work on more creative projects in the near future. I have just recently published my first children’s book, also tackling the topic of PTSD. I’m hoping that the illustrations in the book will help kids stay engaged while they learn.
Biggest challenge about separating from ARA?
It was quite a daunting decision to move away from full time service, however I was lucky to have my illustration business recognised by defence prior to leaving, so I had an opportunity to build my clientele before making the break. I still really appreciate that defence allowed me to do that as it really helped with the confidence I needed to make such a big decision.
What's the main skill/lesson you learned in Army that you still use regularly?
Probably attention to detail. In RSS platoon, we would regularly be tested on what they called Kims games, which is a kind of memory game. We would have to recall details from hours or even days before, a lot of which were very minor details. This came in useful on full mission profiles when we needed to recall vehicle number plates or details of someone we came across.
These days, I still find myself subconsciously scanning for fine details, even if the details are irrelevant. It can often be useful and keeps the mind active.
Favourite Army memory?
One of my fondest memories during my military career was winning the Duke of Gloucester cup and then our team was sent to the UK to compete in the Cambrian Patrol in Wales. We were all physically drained by the end, but so much closer as a team.
Favourite quote?
I heard a quote from Lamborghini when asked about why they don’t advertise, they said “we don’t do commercials, our target audience isn’t sitting around watching tv”. I heard this many years ago and it really puts things into perspective in terms of goal setting and priority of efforts. Whether it’s work, fitness or financial goals, this has helped me stay on track for the things that I wanted to achieve over the years.
Proudest moment in business?
I went through Kickstarter for both of my books and a deck of Battlefield playing cards where I illustrated medieval charaters from history. Kickstarter awarded me the Most Funded Project award and I was featured on the platform home page. I’m just proud to be able to do a job that I love and that brings joy to many people. Art and illustration isn’t really a mainstream career choice, but I believe if you are good at something and have the passion for it, then with a little hard work, you can making a living with it.
Best business advice?
“Never test the depth of the river with both feet”. For me when I left fulltime Army, it was a gradual transfer as I “tested the water” and proved that what I had planned was feasible and sustainable before going all-in. In addition, hard work, long hours, and dedication are always your greatest tools. If it’s something you really want, losing a bit of sleep won’t bother you.
Interviewed by Deb Herring
Committee Member
The Top Ender Magazine