Oeuvre Evolution: thepairabirds

thepairabirds

Story by thepairabirds

Published on Aug 18, 2008 in Read

Photo by thepairabirds

A month ago PamelaAngus found an early piece of hers hidden in the drawer. Now Tabitha from ThePairabirds is delving into the past to show us her beginnings. The Chicago-based illustrator came a long road from manga-styled figures to pop-art, and she is still evolving. 

When did you start drawing and painting?
I started drawing regularly when I was eleven. I became interested in comic book art. I didn’t begin painting until 2001, when I started college.

How do you evaluate the change between your first drawings/paintings?
My early drawings were inspired by Japanese manga work. I was really entranced with the use of line-weight and light and dark contrast. My style began to take on its own when I started art college. In school, I had the chance to experiment with different media, study different cultures, and learn and share with my classmates. This blending of cultures encouraged me to blend the beautiful linework of Japanese manga with nostalgic American pop culture.

In which area do you think you evolved a lot?
I think my use of linework has evolved. I used to add so many details to a piece that it became over-worked. I am drawn to clean and uncluttered design (which is ironic since I am a pack-rat), particularly in interior design. This look is finding its way into my pieces more and more.

What kind of evolution do you see for yourself in the future? What are your plans (if any)?
I think my art is beginning to focus on the juxtaposition of human and nature. I think the most beautiful relationship is the one between humans and their environment. I am intrigued by people and how they relate to their environment, specifically their homes. So it is interesting for me to see how art and furniture is arranged in the sacred place of “Home.”

Can you live on selling your drawings?
At the moment, yes. I’m single and child-free. It means going without an iPhone, a lot of social events, and having to live with family. But, those are some of the sacrifices I have to make right now that will hopefully change over time.

See other Oeuvre Evolutions on the Storque. Vadjutka highlights many more artists’ evolutions on her blog, Craftsthenandnow.blogspot.com.  How has your craft changed over the years?  Post in the comments below!

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