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fun portrait art of jess
gonacha
The
fun portrait art of Jessica Gonacha
really rocks!
She
combines traditional and digital art-making processes to create these
vivid, colorful artworks that convey the essence of the people she
is portraying. These are no ordinary portraits - they sing with vibrancy
and beam with a delightful quirkiness!
Jessica has a
great sense of color and pattern, which she weaves into her portrait
art to create compositions that are well-balanced and rich with flavor.
Check
out this informative interview with Jessica Gonacha and find out how
she creates these wonderful pieces and read the inspiration behind
her fun portrait art!
Can you
briefly explain your process in creating these portraits?
Sure! Basically they all
start out in my sketchbook. I usually draw things in pencil first
and then trace over in ink once I'm happy with the drawing, but sometimes
I'll be brave and just go for it with a pen! Once I'm done with the
ink drawing, I scan it into my computer and color it digitally in
either Photoshop and/or Illustrator. Often I'll incorporate patterns
that I've created or textures that I've scanned into the pieces as
well, for some added dimension and interest.
Do you
use models or reference photos?
I use photos at
the beginning of most drawings. I have a lot of books, catalogues,
magazines, and photographs that I'll go to when I need a figure in
a certain position, or a face at a certain angle...
Can you
describe the materials you use to create these artworks?
I really only use pen,
pencil, paper, my scanner, and my trusty computer!
What are
the advantages of creating these artworks partially in a digital manner?
One thing I really love
about creating artwork digitally is that it doesn't take up any space.
It's just drawings in sketchbooks and space on the hard drive of my
computer-- rather than bulky paintings taking up my whole house! (But
I have that problem, too. ) ;)
Do
you prefer the digital approach over the traditional approach, or
do you like them both the same?
I really like each approach
for different reasons. I love creating digitally because it seems
more immediate and instantly gratifying. It's easier to make changes
and to make things clean and precise. But there is something about
sitting down to painting that I will love forever. It's relaxing in
a way that I don't think digital work will ever be for me. It's just
such a different experience all around.
What is
your goal with creating these portraits?
I think my goal is to convey
messages of hope and positivity through these images. Or often just
something ridiculous and funny. I like the drawings to be a little
imperfect, because that's how I am and how everyone is. I just hope
that people will relate somewhat to the drawings and see pieces of
themselves in them.
Do you
see your artwork moving into a more digital direction in the future?
Yes, definitely.
I really want to continue branching out into surface pattern design
and illustration, and all of that aspect of my work is digital. I
will always paint, though, because I love it so much, and it's very
soothing for me. But we live in a digital age, and I do love my computer!
What
fun portrait art! Many, many thanks to Jess for her
insightful answers in this interview, and for showing us how portrait
art can be so unique, fresh and fun. You can see more of Jessica's
artwork at her website: www.jessgonacha.com.
She sells original artwork, prints, and other artsy goodies
in her etsy
shop. You can keep up to date with her newest creations
at her flickr
or her blog.
