We’re looking forward to introducing you to Drew Button. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Drew, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
A Scavenger in the Wilderness.
As a freelance artist working in three distinct categories, I often describe myself as a scavenger in the wild. Much of my life feels like wandering —I don’t always know where I’m going, but I feel I’m meant to be here. If a path brought me to this point, it’s overgrown and hard to follow. I’ve learned it’s better to wander than to become frustrated by chasing a path that doesn’t really exist. In art, every day is about discovery and survival, not sticking to a fixed direction. The paths I take are like game trails—twisting through densely vegetated terrain toward whatever I need next.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Who We Are.
We’re a small team of artists—my wife Emily, occasionally my father Mark Button, and me. We focus on murals, 3D modeling and visualization for construction projects, graphic design, and illustration. We value clear communication, efficient processes, and high-quality work. Collaborating with clients means making the most of our time to deliver strong results. Right now, we’re working on branding and packaging for two Colorado food startups, while also creating 3D simulations for construction projects and a power line in the Arizona desert using 3DS Max. Each project brings its own challenges, but we aim to meet them with creativity and produce work that stands out.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
Important Teachers
My Parents
From an early age, my parents encouraged my creativity and supported my self-expression. As I became a freelance artist, they taught me to set boundaries, speak up for myself, and trust my ability to get things done.
My Colleagues
While working at Wenk Associates for seven years, I learned valuable skills in teamwork, design, and professional communication.
My Wife
Emily has helped me believe in myself and showed me the power of simplicity—especially when I overcomplicate things. Her guidance in communication and managing client relationships has been key to our success over the past five years.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Your Worst Enemy Is You
You’ll always be your toughest critic and you won’t gain anything by beating yourself up now or in the years to come. Don’t waste any (more) time or energy tearing yourself down.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
Fads, Wasted Time and My Foundation
I believe one of the biggest fads of my generation is social media. As technology changes how we live and work, social media has grown by relying on smartphones that keep us constantly connected. People spend about 2 hours and 21 minutes a day on it—often unproductively and disconnected from their surroundings. With AI advancing, I think (and hope) we’ll rely less on smartphones and spend less time staring at screens. Before I quit social media, I was spending about 2.5 hours a day on Instagram. Over 10 years, that would add up to a full year of my life—too much time for something that may not even matter a decade from now. Instead I’ve chosen to spend my time on my own foundational skills and true inspirations: drawing, reading sci-fi novels, and playing with my family.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
My Legacy
I want my grandchildren to remember me as the grandpa who loved drawing and painting with them and their parents, and who stayed creative with his family for as long as he could. I hope they remember our trips together, where I taught them about the world and answered their questions honestly. I don’t want to leave behind money or things to fight over—I want people to enjoy the murals we created and for my family to value a simple life filled with simple joys.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dbuttonink.com
- Linkedin: Drew Button / DB Ink
Image Credits
All images credited to DB Ink
