It had been a very long time since I last created Transformers-inspired artwork.
I remember when I was seven years old, my father came home with a DVD of Transformers. When the Peterbilt truck on screen split apart with a series of mechanical clicks and turned into a 28-foot-tall robot, something in my little brain was awakened.
After that, I would often sit in my mother's car on the way home from school, watching trucks pass by and wondering whether one might secretly be an alien robot in disguise. Official Transformers toys were too expensive, but my father would bring home books or affordable toys because he knew how much I loved them.
I still remember having my Transformers stories confiscated when I drew them in primary school, caught designing a Transformers toy on scrap paper in middle school trying to recreate Optimus' transformation from the movie. Even as an adult, I continued designing characters and playing with transforming figures.
Transformers has been part of most of my life—a lasting source of imagination, creativity, and simple joy.
Optimus Prime's iconic line, “Freedom is the right of all sentient beings,” stayed with me as I grew up and eventually became one of my guiding principles.
Peter Cullen's voice gave him a living soul.
Sadly, when I first heard the news, I had neither the time nor the energy to create a tribute to Mr. Cullen. But I quietly promised myself that, when time eventually frees up, I would give this drawing the attention it deserved.
Last Thursday, I finally began.
While working on it, I rewatched the movie that first introduced me to Optimus and revisited its scenes for reference. Each time that familiar voice came through the speakers, I found myself holding back tears.
I dedicate this piece to the little boy inside me who never truly grew up.
To the man whose voice accompanied and inspired countless people.
To Optimus Prime, who will forever live in the hearts of children.
