We recently connected with Indira Prieto and have shared our conversation below.
Indira, appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
Becoming an artist is all about passion, and everyone discovers that passion in their own time. But one thing you can’t skip if you truly want to grow and succeed is the hard work. If you’re just starting out and think it’s all about talent, let me stop you right there: it’s not. It’s the late nights, the constant research, the endless search for inspiration, and the hours spent creating, refining, and starting over. That’s where the real progress happens.
For me, it all began after spending too many years behind a computer screen. I felt the need to work with my hands, it felt like something inside me was fading. I’d always been drawn to letterforms and the power of written words. Being able to express my voice and perspective through lettering felt natural. At first, I did it just for fun, not for anyone else to see.
But after many hours of practice and filling up workbooks, people started to notice. They encouraged me to share my work publicly, and once I did, I was hooked. Then, when art supply brands I had been using started to recognize and support my work, I knew the effort had been worth it. I kept going, and I haven’t looked back since.
Indira, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I pour my heart into everything I create. From expressive letterforms to vibrant color palettes, my work reflects my heritage, culture, and personal story; it’s all intricately woven into each piece. This is what I live and breathe; it’s engraved in my soul and rooted in everything I am.
After working with various agencies and in-house marketing teams, I realized that limited creative freedom wasn’t for me, there was something more waiting in the design world. Today, I offer tailored, boutique illustration and branding services for brands both big and small.
I bring a refreshing blend of pragmatism and playfulness to my work, making me uniquely equipped to solve communication challenges through art. My process balances strategy with creativity, ensuring every project is both effective and visually captivating.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to create something that resonates with people on an emotional level. Whether it’s a hand-drawn lettering piece, an illustration, or a pattern, seeing how my work can spark joy, nostalgia, or even conversation is incredibly meaningful. I also find fulfillment in the process itself, exploring ideas, experimenting with new techniques, and watching a concept come to life. It’s a privilege to turn personal expression into something that others can connect with, and that’s what keeps me inspired.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
Absolutely. My creative journey is deeply rooted in a mission to celebrate culture, identity, and self-expression. I see art as a bridge: a way to celebrate culture, identity, and emotion while also solving real-world communication challenges. As a Latina designer and artist, I infuse my heritage, voice, and perspective into every piece, whether it’s a hand-drawn illustration or a surface pattern packed with rhythm and energy.
At the same time, I love helping brands find their visual voice. Through custom lettering, illustration, and thoughtful design, I help companies express who they are in ways that feel human, heartfelt, and unforgettable. For me, it’s not just about making things look good—it’s about creating work that connects, resonates, and leaves an impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.indysigncreative.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theindysign/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indirap/
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/theindysign/
Image Credits
Zoe Gomez