Who or what made you want to become an illustrator?

As an illustrator from Cebu City, Philippines, I was inspired by the vibrant culture and rich artistic heritage of my hometown. Growing up in Cebu City, I was surrounded by a diverse range of art forms, from traditional Filipino crafts to contemporary street art. I was captivated by the intricate details, colors, and storytelling elements in illustrations I saw around me.

Additionally, I was influenced by local artists who showcased their talent and passion for illustration. Seeing their work showcased in galleries, exhibitions, and even on the streets inspired me to pursue a career in this field. Their ability to bring stories to life through visuals and create emotional connections with viewers motivated me to develop my own artistic skills.

Moreover, the natural beauty of Cebu City and the Philippines as a whole served as a constant source of inspiration for my illustrations. The lush landscapes, vibrant festivals, and unique cultural traditions provided a wellspring of ideas and themes to explore in my artwork.

Ultimately, it was the combination of these influences—the vibrant local culture, the talent of fellow artists, and the captivating surroundings—that sparked my desire to become an illustrator. It's a way for me to express my creativity, tell stories, and contribute to the rich artistic tapestry of Cebu City and beyond.

How and why did you decide to pursue illustration as your career?

As an artist who has transitioned from traditional art to digital art, allow me to share my journey and the reasons behind my decision to pursue illustration as my career.

Art has always been a significant part of my life, stemming from my early years when I would spend hours sketching and experimenting with different mediums. I found solace and fulfillment in the act of creating, and my passion for art only grew stronger over time. Traditional art was my foundation, and it provided me with a deep understanding of various techniques, textures, and the tangible connection between artist and canvas.

However, as technology advanced and digital tools became more accessible, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the possibilities they offered. I was drawn to the endless potential of digital art, the ability to manipulate and experiment without the fear of irreversible mistakes, and the convenience of working with a digital canvas that allowed for quick iterations and revisions. The prospect of seamlessly blending different mediums and effortlessly exploring new artistic horizons was incredibly appealing.

One of the key factors that solidified my decision to transition to digital art was the evolving landscape of the creative industry. The digital realm opened doors to a vast array of opportunities, from working in animation studios and game development to creating concept art and designing illustrations for various media platforms. The demand for digital art was growing rapidly, and I wanted to ensure that I stayed relevant and adaptable in an ever-changing market.

Additionally, the accessibility and global reach offered by the digital medium played a significant role in my decision. Sharing my art with a worldwide audience became much more attainable through online platforms, social media, and digital galleries. The potential to connect with fellow artists, collaborate on projects remotely, and engage with a diverse community of art enthusiasts was incredibly enticing.

While my transition to digital art required a learning curve and a period of adjustment, the freedom and versatility it provided ultimately won me over. I embraced the digital tools and software available, honing my skills and discovering new techniques that pushed the boundaries of my artistic expression. The ability to create vibrant and immersive illustrations, manipulate light and color with ease, and incorporate intricate details became an integral part of my artistic style.

Overall, the decision to pursue illustration as my career came from a combination of personal passion, curiosity, and the desire to adapt to the changing artistic landscape. The digital medium offered new avenues of creativity, expanded opportunities, and the chance to connect with a global audience. Through this transition, I have found immense joy and fulfillment as an artist, continuously evolving and exploring the endless possibilities that digital art presents.

What is your favourite children’s book and why?

As a self-taught artist with college level education, I didn't attend art school or undertake any other formal artistic training. My artistic journey has been primarily shaped by my own curiosity, experimentation, and the drive to constantly improve my skills.

I currently live in Cebu City, but I grew up in a tropical island called Camotes. While I didn't have access to formal art education or resources in my childhood, creativity was always a significant part of my life. I would spend countless hours doodling, sketching, and creating my own imaginative worlds. Art became my way of expressing myself and exploring the boundless depths of my imagination.

Drawing has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. From the moment I picked up a pencil, I was captivated by the ability to bring my ideas to life on paper. Whether it was sketching scenes from my favorite books or creating my own characters, drawing provided me with a sense of joy and fulfillment.

As a self-taught artist, my major artistic influences have come from various sources. I've drawn inspiration from renowned illustrators, studying their techniques and observing how they capture emotions and tell stories through their art. Additionally, nature, everyday life, and the works of other artists I've encountered online or in local galleries have also influenced my artistic style.

Although I didn't have access to a wide range of books during my childhood, a few stand out as cherished treasures. I loved Dr. Seuss books because of the unique and whimsical illustrations: Dr. Seuss had a distinct and recognizable artistic style that was characterized by bold, vibrant colors, playful shapes, and imaginative creatures. His illustrations were often whimsical, surreal, and filled with intricate details. As an artist, I appreciate his ability to create visually captivating and engaging worlds that transcend traditional boundaries.

As a self-taught artist, I haven't had a specific mentor in the traditional sense. However, I've been fortunate enough to find guidance and inspiration from fellow artists in online communities and social media platforms. Their valuable feedback, advice, and shared experiences have played a crucial role in shaping my artistic journey.

In terms of my working technique, I've developed my own process through trial and error. I typically begin with rough sketches and thumbnailing to establish the composition and overall concept. Once I'm satisfied with the initial sketch, I refine it further, adding more details and focusing on the character design or key elements of the illustration. Finally, I move on to adding colors, shading, and textures digitally, using software such as [mention software]. This allows me to achieve the desired atmosphere and bring the illustration to life.

The software and hardware that I couldn't live without would be my trusty drawing tablet and the digital painting software. They are essential tools for my digital art process, enabling me to have precise control over my brushstrokes and work seamlessly with layers, colors, and textures.

While I enjoy working with various mediums, my favorite medium is digital art. It offers endless possibilities, flexibility, and the ability to experiment without constraints. Digital art allows me to create vibrant illustrations with intricate details while giving me the freedom to revise and explore different artistic directions effortlessly.

Yes, I do keep a sketchbook. It serves as a space for me to jot down ideas, practice new techniques, and capture inspiration when I'm on the go. It's a valuable tool for exploring concepts and refining my skills.

The creation of my favorite character from one of my books was an exciting and iterative process. I started with rough sketches, experimenting with different shapes,