Name: Ambar Velasco
Age: 26
Home base: Los Angeles
Tu país: Mexico/US
What’s been your journey to becoming an illustrator?
I’ve drawn since I was little but never considered pursuing it as a career until recently. I got my bachelor’s in Creative Writing, which I wasn’t very passionate about (it turns out I only really like reading). After I graduated, I moved to Paris to explore the art scene and the culture. I quickly realized that pursuing a career in art wasn’t crazy at all, and nothing made me happier than drawing, so I applied to universities all over France. Now I’m a second-year art student in Paris and do commission work on the side.
What’s your muse?
My sisters, cacti, and leaves.
What makes an illustration pop?
A surprising color palette and good composition.
Favorite spot for inspiration:
The Seine.
What music do you listen to while illustrating?
Whatever’s playing on Casta Diva radio or R&B.
Go-to creative spot (in your apartment, co-working space, school etc):
My apartment is one creative spot, it’s so tiny.
Describe Latine culture in your home base:
Mexican culture is family being everything, cooking for and feeding others, dancing and story-telling.
Go-to visual references:
Runway and works by Cézanne.
What’s next for you?
Once I finish art school, I want to find a spacious studio or maybe begin a residency and paint mural-sized pieces. I think they’ll be a combination of paint and leaves.
