Meet Graphic Designer & Illustrator Mercedes
With hard work and a smile, everything is possible.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Mercedes Bazan, I live in San Francisco, California, and I am a graphic designer and illustrator from Argentina.
What type of art do you feel most connected to?
I would say it is drawing.
How long have you been drawing or illustrating?
Maybe around four years. I started with vector work and now I shifted to an "anime" style.
What inspires you the most to illustrate?
All the fantastic illustrators out there. They are the reason I always try new things and, most importantly, try to improve my skills and my art.
Do you remember your first-ever illustration? What was it?
My mother kept a box with all my drawings since I was five years old. They are interesting for sure — lots of houses and cats.
Describe your creative illustration process in several steps
Think about the concept
Look for references
Sketch something fast
Polish the sketch
Make the outlines
Add bold shading
Add color
Final touch-ups
Where do you see yourself in the future?
Thinking about the future gives me a lot of anxiety. Hopefully I can be near my family, stay healthy, and work on cool projects.
What three things would you tell others to be inspired to make art during Covid-19?
I know these times are weird and sad, so it is okay if you don't find inspiration all the time. Try to take a break if you can and appreciate what is around you.
Also don't compare yourself with others but learn from others whenever you can. Everyone has their own path and time. And there might be times when you feel that you are a total failure and there is no hope — but don't give up. With hard work and a smile, everything is possible.
I think the most important thing is to not lose sight of your goal and don’t let fear get in the way of achieving what you want. Don't expect it to be a straight path, there will be setbacks, but you have to be true to your style.
Which tools do you use to illustrate? Which one do you use the most?
Procreate, Illustrator, and Photoshop
How can others find your work or connect with you?
Feel free to follow me on my Instagram