Thanks so much for the interview! Let's start at the beginning: What got you into illustration?
Thanks
for inviting me. As a child, I wanted to recreate the world as I saw
it. My first canvases were the walls of my bedroom and it’s been a
strange, fantastic ride since. I began taking painting more seriously
when I discovered Adobe Photoshop around age 13. When I realized people
actually make a living drawing, I was determined to pursue a career
doing something I love.
Who or what are your main sources of inspiration?
My
inspiration comes from organic natural elements, mythology and history,
movement and texture, lyrics and melodies, expressions, color
variations, and pretty much anything which makes me want to grab my
tablet and paint!
You attend SCAD currently, studying Illustration. How far into your degree are you?
Yup, I'll be starting my senior year this fall. Yikes, time has gone by fast!
Did you attend any school for formal training in artwork?
What is your creative process like?
I
normally start with a vague concept in mind and sketch out my idea in
black and white. After tweaking the composition and values, and being
generally nitpicky, I start seeking out references and refining my
sketch. Next, I throw in textures on a variety of layer modes such as
soft light, divide, multiply, whatever may feel best. I add color using
layer modes, and particularly like curves to manipulate hues. Toward the
end, I detail the piece, sharpen it, and call it a day!
What
programs and tools do you use in creating your work? Anything you're
especially fond of that you'd like to recommend to readers?
I
paint digitally using Adobe Photoshop CS6 and my lovely Wacom Intuos 3
tablet. I was instantly hooked my first day of using a computer and
tablet. Working with unlimited colors and canvases helped me experiment
more, allowing me to grow and develop my style. Of course, I still have
so much to learn, and regularly discover new techniques and tools. What I
love about art is that, with any medium, it’s an eternal learning
process.
For how long have you been an illustrator?
I
started with local portrait commissions in high school. After becoming
active on social networks, I began creating a more professional network.
My first big job, two covers for the magazine ImagineFX, was four years ago. Since then I've been working somewhat steadily.
What's your typical workday/school day like?
Going
too long without holding a stylus or pencil makes me antsy. I draw
almost every day if I can, even if it’s just a doodle. Sketching and
painting is very relaxing (except when going through an art block; those
are the worst!).
How about your work space? Can you give us an insight into where you work?
I move around a lot, so in my workspace is always in flux. But I love painting by a window (with a hot cup of tea).
Do you find time for freelance work?
I
currently freelance on a part-time basis, as that's most flexible to
balance with school. I like the freedom of managing my own hours,
pricing, and number of clients.
Your color palettes are quite ethereal. What is the inspiration behind them?
The
colors are inspired by florals, creatures (particularly insects), art,
food, everyday objects. Even though I tend to start in black and white
and prefer limited palettes, adding hue is my favorite part. After
seeing an inspiring color scheme, there’s nothing I want to do more than
paint.
Lately,
a lot of your artwork has a watercolor/ink feel to it, but is digital.
Do you work with watercolor or ink as well? Or are you interested in
expanding to other media (messy, real-life media)?
For school
projects, I revisited acrylics, pen and ink, mixed media, and oils.
Watercolors are unpredictable, though I've learned to have fun with the
medium! I love their spontaneous quality and try to incorporate the
style into my work. While I primarily paint digitally, I do create and
scan traditional textures to use in Photoshop.
Nature plays a big part in your artwork. Flowers, butterflies, birds, and fish are regular features in your portfolio.
I
often draw inspiration from movement and organic shapes by
incorporating abstracted natural elements. I love the beauty and
unpredictability of nature. It’s a perfect complement to the human
figure. When I can, I love finding escape outdoors.
What are your current goals as an artist?
While
I do enjoy freelancing, I think my ultimate goal is to make a living
off personal art. If that’s attainable and where that would lead, I have
no idea! Thinking about what’s yet to come makes me anxious—in the best
of ways.
Let's
chat about fan art. What media has influenced you most in creating a
piece based on it? What are you currently geeking out over?
What words of advice do you have for emerging illustrators who wish to engage in painting as you have?
If you love what you do, love your process, and love the experience, it will show in your work!Draw every day, even if it’s just a little sketch. Figure out which aspects of your favorite pieces you are attracted to, as well as what you personally enjoy creating. Combine these inspirations, and your own voice will emerge. Explore the possibilities. Gather an online presence, get your work out there, and never stop making lots of wonderful things (whatever that may mean to you).
For more of Anna's artwork, or to connect with her via social media, check out the links below:
