Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Izabel Garcillano. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

From the quiet suburbs of New Jersey, I am a mixed media animator where I blend 2D and 3D elements together to develop fantastical worlds and visualize stories for the audience to explore and enjoy. The mundane can be thrilling if one knows where to look, and I aim to shine a spotlight on these tales that can connect with people.

While I specialize in 2D animation and character design, I also provide 2D motion graphics and model 3D environments. For visual development, or to make people laugh, I hope my work provides a smile and maybe even a chuckle or two.

Aside from making art, I am an avid comic book reader, podcast listener, and fan of all things science fiction, fantasy, and mystery!

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One thing I wish “non-creatives” would understand about being a professional artist/animator is that art takes time. We are not creative every single moment of our lives, and our worth should not have to be defined by how much money we make. Most of my family are in the science and medical fields, and nearly every one of them has asked, “Why aren’t you earning money?” “Can you even make a career out of that?” Art is a continuous learning process where skills are always developing and the industry is constantly changing. Having graduated college this past year, I know my art skills are not quite where I want to be, and it’s a never-ending journey of learning and growth.
I want “non-creatives” to understand that creatives like me may not save lives through medicine or surgeries, but our work can be just as important given the same time and attention as any other career.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Cartoons were there for me when I was lonely and too afraid when people were confusing. They taught me about the world beyond my neighborhood and helped me understand myself and others. Although the characters and worlds were fiction, their message and themes were real. It was as if they said, “No matter how bad everything feels, no matter how much you are pushed down, it will be okay in the end.” They served as a comforting guide for navigating a world that felt hostile and overwhelming.
What drives my creative journey is the goal to make cartoons that will help someone just as much cartoons have helped me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://izabelgarcillano.wixsite.com/izatoonist/home
• Instagram: izatoonist
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/izabelgarcillano/