Q&A with Laura Alvarez

© Sandra Ayala

My name is Laura Alvarez. I’m an illustrator, graphic designer, visual artist, educator and community activist. I create and teach art. I believe in the power of imagination and creativity.  I’m from Valencia, Spain but since 2009 I live in The Bronx, ?New York.

I create parallel, imaginary worlds with fantastic beings ? monsters that seem sweet but if given a second look might surprise you. It's a sweet and sour look into everyday things.
I'm obsessed with calligraphy and making words a tangible image in the eye of the viewer. I see words as a thesis to an emotion or idea and it is a necessity for me to transmit that message.


What inspired you to become an artist?

I was born with a pencil in my hand. I always created and built stuff. Instead of playing I would draw with chalk all over the wall to make my own kitchen or design a new room.  I inherited the artistic side from my mom, my interest in science from my dad and the social commitment and Nature from my aunt. They always support my desire of create, travel and learn.

What tools do you use to organize your work?

Real folders, file folders (in the computer), shelves for sketchbooks and closets filled with paper.

I sketch every day. I use pencils, ink, brushes, acrylic, watercolor; I like to photograph (to post in social media) and scan my work to have record of what I do. I keep my Mac very organized, you have to if you want to be quick and find everything you need. I make lots of projects that I have to come back to them later on because I keep working with the client. That’s my graphic design background.

What is your ideal work environment?

I love big windows, lots of sun, music, artwork on the walls and many materials to play with. Mac, scanner and smart phone are a must.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

I like to visit museums, travel, go to the movies, the library, get lost in book stores reading in the floor and spend hours looking at pinterest, instagram, behance or any other sources that can bring me knowledge and tickle my brain.


© Laura Alvarez

Who are the artists you admire most?

I admire the artists that changed the world without knowing; Kandinsky, Rothko, Van Gogh, Picasso, but also the unknown artisans that carved and painted the Romanic chapels through Europe in the medieval times.

I also believe in the artists that work hard every day to get their word out. They might not be famous but they are the ones that believe in Art and in what they do despite the difficulties.