Today we’re joined by Laura. Laura is a phenomenal architect from Colombia. She frequently uses 3D simulations and images to create the concept of the project. Aside from that, she does a number of other sorts of visual art including linoprinting and painting. Recently, Laura has started dabbling in cosplay and miniatures, both painting and creating scenery for miniatures. It’s clear she’s a dedicated and talented individual, as you’ll soon read. My thanks to her for taking the time to participate in this interview.
WORK
Please, tell us about your art.
I’m a 27 years old Architect. Concerning this job I like producing 3D simulations and images (renderings) and creating the concept of the project, which includes lots of free-hand drawings. Besides that, I do linoprinting, painting, sketches, I’m starting to produce some cosplay pieces and props, miniature painting and the scenery for these miniatures. Since I began Architecture school I’ve been producing special pieces and exploring works that use our real space and always bringing some kind of questions about how to bend or interrupt the daily routine.
What inspires you?
Even though I watch a lot of films and Japanese animation, I probably use these media to create a repertoire of concepts. Usually when I’m listening to new music, if the song isn’t too abstract and if I feel a connection, there may be inspiration to create a drawing. Most of the time the urge to produce any kind of piece is born from random things I live: it may be something someone said, an image I read the wrong way…
What got you interested in your field? Have you always wanted to be an artist?
Ever since I was a kid I loved drawing and painting. A cousin of mine is a painter and decorator, she was the one who taught me how to use oleum, acrylics, the basics of drawing and everything related to these arts.
Do you have any kind of special or unique signature, symbol, or feature you include in your work that you’d be willing to reveal?
Recently I’ve started to introduce a golden Mickey Mouse in my renderings.
What advice would you give young aspiring artists?
Don’t stress about making your art your way of living. It is ok if you want to keep it as a hobby or something you deeply enjoy by yourself without sharing it.
ASEXUALITY
Where on the spectrum do you identify?
I used to identify as Demi-sexual… but now I’m just leaving it at grey-sexual.
Have you encountered any kind of ace prejudice or ignorance in your field? If so, how do you handle it?
Ignorance. People don’t know that Asexuality is a thing. I explain to them what it is about and if they are interested I explain in more detail. I always make it clear that every person that identifies within the spectrum live asexuality their own way and that my explanation comes from what I’ve lived.
What’s the most common misconception about asexuality that you’ve encountered?
That an asexual is a person that simply doesn’t like having sex. Of course, they don’t know how sex repulsion works or how a person that places themselves on the ace spectrum experiences the world.
What advice would you give to any asexual individuals out there who might be struggling with their orientation?
It is fine if you discover your orientation “late” in your life, especially with asexuality because it is something most people don’t talk about.
It is fine if you think that because of being on the spectrum you have trouble identifying how you feel about someone. Most people are driven on how they feel sexually towards other people and so they know really fast if they like someone else or not. When you’re asexual (or on the spectrum) sometimes you realize you have feelings for someone else after a long time and the other person may think you’re don’t have any interest in them. You can explain to them or just live with the certainty that that person wasn’t meant for you. (of course, if you’re not aromantic too). BUT don’t use this as an excuse to stay in your comfort zone
Finally, where can people find out more about your work?
https://www.behance.net/lauravanegas
Thank you, Laura, for participating in this interview and this project. It’s very much appreciated.
Asexual Artists 