We were lucky to catch up with Ludo Smolic recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Ludo thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
My art has always been an extension of myself, a way to express myself without using words. By far my most meaningful project to me was when I had a solo gallery show at the &Gallery in Tucson, Arizona and I focused on my life and who I am as a person, both good and bad. To be able to have a whole show, and be vulnerable in a way I never have before and with so many pieces that I created that meant so much to me, it was a beautiful project I got to work on.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Ludo, I’m a 26 year old self taught full time artist & illustrator from Tucson, Arizona. I work with traditional art, mostly focusing on detailed ink illustrations and the more macabre side of art. I’ve been doing art my entire life, but I started selling art about 6 years ago at various local anime and comic conventions. Now, I’ve been doing art full time for 2 years, and it still doesn’t feel real that I get to do what I love for a living.
A main focus of my art, and what a lot of people say draws them to my art, is my very detailed linework. It’s a labor of love, and I think it’s important for everyone to know how much care and heart goes into art. I put a piece of myself in every piece I do, no matter how small. I may draw horrific, grotesque and aggressive art, but it’s all coming from a place of genuine emotion that I hope resonates with other people.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
When I was in my early 20’s, when I was just beginning to do art more seriously, I became physically disabled, slowly losing my mobility. I had a spine tumor that grew over the next 5 years undetected, and it almost cost me my ability to walk. Through all of that, I still did my art, and I still tried to build my business despite also working full time jobs. It was the hardest period of my life, coping with the loss of my mobility as well as trying to pursue my dream through it all. However, I am happy to say I got my tumor removed in 2022 and I’ve been recovering very well!
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My only goal I’ve ever had with my art is to create beautiful things to put into the world. The world needs art, I think it is such an important part of human life that I couldn’t think of anything I’d rather do then create. Making art that resonates with people is an incredible thing I get to do, and it means the world to me. This also comes with uplifting others to create their own art, and I hope my art can inspire people to make their own works!
Contact Info:
- Website: thesnakebitchart.com
- Instagram: theesnakebitch
- Twitter: theesnakebitch