The Next Big Interview: ElolaIllustrator

Thanks for chatting with me, Alfonso! Let's explore your artistic road map so far: How did the journey begin, what have been some of the speed bumps or dead-ends, and when did you start to feel like you were finally cruising? 

I studied Illustration, and I graduated as an illustrator a couple of years ago. When I was a child, I did not do drawing badly, but I wasn't exceptional. I was very standard, then I learned more in university.

My technique has changed considerably in a few years, and when I see stuff that I made in the past, I feel uncomfortable with it. It reduced my speed in creating new illustrations because I try to remake all in my most recent technique, but this style changes quickly in months."

What are the main themes that you like to examine in your art? 

Generally anatomy, but I like all kinds of very different themes: religions, music, literature . . ."

The imagery contained within your art carries an erotic pull, a kind of orgasmic undercurrent that is found in the powerful presentation of vibrant colours, skeletal anatomy and sensual feminine forms. How do you personally interpret this imagery and what’s the impression that you hope to leave with viewers when they see your artworks?

Yes, it has a touch of sensuality, it’s not properly erotic but always has a sexy undertone. I enjoy a lot to play with the color palette in an unusual way and with different textures.

The message in these pieces (the anatomical pieces) is more a reflection. Inside us, we are so similar to other organisms, even compared with simple organisms such as plants.

But I prefer not to tell my whole interpretations; they are surreal pieces so everyone will have their interpretation of the pieces, and I think those are just as valid as mine."

Do you have a favourite painting in your gallery? If so, what would you consider to be the strengths of the piece, visually and/or conceptually? 

At the moment, I like the illustration called Organic Portrait, the one with the yellow rose on the head. I liked this composition, so simple and symmetric. . . but I change my mind quickly, maybe I won't like this one in the near future."

What qualities do you find inspirational in your favourite artists or those you admire in the field?

I like the composition and good lighting of recent and classical artists. Currently, there are very good artists with a nice volume comprehension. And I also like classical artists themselves, Baroque art and Tenebrism."

As an artist, how do you deal with creative setbacks or lack of motivation?

I think it's important to be disciplined. It’s not really important to have inspiration, it’s more important to work and practice always, anytime."

Nightmares or daydreams, which fuels you?

Yes, I dreamed many pieces, and often dreams help to improve my work. Nightmares, daydreams, or just simple dreams, all are good for the art, I guess."

What has been the highlight of your DeviantArt experience so far, and how do you see the community as contributing to your growth as an artist?
 

I was surprised they received me very well, I didn't expect this and I'm grateful towards them. To see such good comments is a great positive reinforcement."

What other talent do you possess that others might be surprised to know about?

I like traditional sculpture, and paint not only in digital. I'm not very talented at anything else, I just restrict myself to one thing at a time."

Is there something you are currently working on, or are excited about starting that you can share?

Maybe some illustrations for Discovery Channel, but still nothing concrete, and I can't say anything about my "paid work." About stuff I uploaded on the Internet, that is my personal work.

I would like to make some covers for books that I like, such as The Metamorphosis by Kafka and Steppenwolf by Hesse. Also, to make some videogame characters."

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