We recently connected with Lila Ash and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Lila , thanks for joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

I recently wrote my first graphic memoir, titled Decodependence: A Romantic Tragicomic. It was a huge risk because I exposed myself in more ways than one. The memoir focuses on my relationships and their codependent tendencies. In creating this work, I had to sift through many painful, embarrassing and often shameful memories to write and draw on the page. It is dropping on October 17, and I’m terrified! This is the most revealing project I’ve ever taken on and I’m hopeful that it will resonate with readers and art lovers.

Lila , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am an illustrator and cartoonist. I’m best known for my cartoons for The New Yorker magazine. In addition, I’ve been published by The Washington Post, Mad, Air Mail, Wired, Lenny Letter, The American Bystander and many more. In my freelance work, I focus on personal and business commissions. I believe my art style, ability to translate ideas, and timeliness set me apart as an illustrator. I’m always open to new opportunities to hone my craft, be it traditional illustration, cartoons, storyboards, visual development, and more.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I’m focused on making a living for myself as a creative. This means taking on jobs and projects that may not always align with my personal interests and skills as an artist, but that provide me with new insights on materials, studio practices, and artist management. My goal is to always be able to say I’m an artist when people ask me what I do, no matter how that manifests.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is having the freedom to create whatever interests me or is on my mind. I’m so grateful for my skills, experiences and education that have propelled my career. It’s incredibly satisfying to be able to support myself as an artist.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lilaash.com
• Instagram: @Lila__ash
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lilaash
• Twitter: @lila__ash
• Other: @lila__ash on tiktok