Artist Conversation 2

Ana Alvarez is college student in her last year at Cal State Long Beach. She is from Irvine and is part of the School of Art’s Illustration and Animation Program. One of her interest is playing video games which sparked her love for illustration.

Alvarez used Photoshop and Procreate softwares. Her piece at first glance is simple but when you look closer, you can see the detail in the color contrasts and shading. The piece uses warm colors. Although the physical piece is smooth, the content is rugged.

Alvarez explained the story behind her piece. She said that the character in her piece is a Dwarven abuelita. The character had lost her husband and is exploring the Enchanted Borderlands to find him. She’s an example of a strong woman who is willing to help others in the Borderlands.

Alvarez helped enhanced my experience with this art gallery. The way she tells the story for her characters is just amazing. It’s just one picture, but Alvarez has an entire story and that what I think is the true artistry. Her piece actually help me relate the story to real life. You see people all around, but you don’t know their story until they or someone else tells you. Her piece asks you to take a step back and try to know the story.