Interview with Andrea Young | graphic design | Tattoo art 16/05/2013
Q: Sexy, inspirational and creative design would be my
description of your art, how would you describe your style?
A: Thank you! That is an awesome compliment. I usually describe it
as fun and kitchy illustration and design with a sexy edge.
Q: What is creativity for you?
A: I think creativity is being able to create something tangible
that you gave birth to in your mind.
Q: Do you remember your firs creation, If so what was it?
A: I don't remember my very first creation, but I do remember in
kindergarten painting a Native American girl and the staff hung it
up in the cafeteria. I was very proud and honored they would do
that. I guess it was my first art show!
Q: How do you
get inspired and stay motivated?
A: Other artists are inspiration. To see their drive and the new
things they create are the biggest motivation.
Q: Artists are constantly changing their style... How has
your work evolved over the years? Do you have any influences?
A: My work is very illustrative and cartoony. I've been toying with
adding more realistic elements to my art. I'm nowhere near a
realistic type style, but its fun to add something new into the mix
and expand and learn.
Q: You have a very unique style. When I first saw your
designs I was really fascinated. pin Up, vintage, brave women are
really eye-catching designs in your portfolio. Would you say that
your style express your personality?
A: I think my style expresses how I would like to be seen or how I
would like to see myself. Fun, flirty, strong and independent.
Q: Unique and confident women might be your biggest
inspiration. Do you want
to see more women on the streets like your imaginary muses? :)
A: I'm absolutely inspired by the women' nature. Woman are very
unique and there are so many facets to explore. I think my drawings
are inspired from woman who already walk the streets.
Q: Is there any message in your creations? Would you say that a
bit of art "rebellion" is a necessity?
A: I don't have a purposeful message, but when I look at my work I
think at first glance one thinks "oh how cute", but then they notice
the lingerie the provocative pose and realize there is a bit more
too it. Just like a woman.
Q: How do you feel about the modern-popular media? Do you
feel overwhelmed? Would you change something?
A: Since having a child I've had to distance myself quiet a bit from
the scene due to time restraints, so I'm not to hip to the exact
current situation. I keep up with what is going on through social
media as much as I can. I think people are going to do what they
want to do and act like they want to act, who am I to say what to
change or how something should be. Exploration and experimentation
are what let us discover who we are in the end.
Q: Can you tell me about the making process? Do you use a sketchbook?
A: I have lots of sketchbooks and a lot of plain sheet paper lying
around or in boxes. A lot of times Ill see a beautiful pose a
photographer took of a model or an element from the wardrobe and my
mind builds off of that. Ill start sketching and refining until I
feel its what I see in my head. I used digital color methods a lot
of the time. Its very relaxing. I can imagine its the same feeling a
painter gets. Id love to be able to paint on canvas one day with
that same feeling.
Q: Would you change something in your style or start
working on something completely different?
A: I'd love to go back to school and learn more and just see where
that takes me.
Q: What part in being a graphic designer you find as most
challenging?
A: At the current moment the most challenging thing is balancing
home life and work. I'm also a wedding photographer and have a 14
month old so I don't have a lot time to devote to design. I'm very
selective of the projects I take right now so I don't get
overwhelmed.
Q: What are the most interesting experiences with the
customers? Share some of your funniest stories.
A: I don't think I have any funny stories! I've been lucky and most
of my clients are so nice and easy to work with. They know what they
want and the want my style not to have me re create someone else's
style.
Q: People could be ruff, jealous, crazy, super-cool... As an
artist, what are some of your greatest challenges or obstacles you
face?
A: My greatest obstacle is myself! I see other artists work and feel
envy of course. I get "artist block" and become sullen, but in the
end I don't want to force anything or compare myself to anyone. I'm
me and what comes out of me and from within. I'm not trying to be
someone else. I like creating honesty and pretty things for others
to look at and enjoy or be inspired by.
Q: Any advice for those who are starting out their career?
A: Don't force it. Go with your gut. Decide for yourself. Be
yourself. Keep learning. Don't give up. Don't do it just for the
money.
Your feature plans?
I've really slowed down in the art area for now with my child and
surprise! another one on the way! So I will be focusing on my
photography with Calicreative Studios which provides a great
creative outlet while the illustration and design are on hold. I
plan to come back to it when I'm able to have some time!