Today we’d like to introduce you to María Camila Girón.
Hi María Camila, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My love for art started way back when I was a kid, thanks to my parents who always kept me stocked with color pencils, paints, and books. Growing up in the era of VHS movies and classic Disney animations, my imagination was constantly sparked by the stories I watched.
When I learned about Graphic Design as a potential career path in Colombia, it felt like a perfect fit. Here was a way for me to channel my passion for creativity into something practical and fulfilling. As I delve into the different aspects of the field, I never lost sight of my love for drawing.
A turning point came with my decision to pursue a master’s in Illustration at Savannah College of Art and Design. Here, I have found my calling in the children’s illustration industry, discovering my passion for bringing stories to life. The impact of SCAD on my work cannot be overstated—it catapulted my creations onto a global stage, leading to features in platforms such as The Society of Illustrators of Los Angeles, Illustration West 61 – 2023, Applied Arts Magazine, and The International Design Awards 2023.
My goal remains to create illustrations that are not only visually compelling but also honest and loyal to my perspective and experiences.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It certainly hasn’t been a smooth road, but looking back, overcoming those obstacles has made the journey all the more fulfilling for me. In Colombia, the field of illustration shows promise and still has room to grow in terms of opportunities.
To pursue my education, I received a partial scholarship from SCAD, but I still required additional support. That’s when organizations like COLFUTURO stepped in, providing vital financial assistance to Colombian citizens pursuing postgraduate studies abroad. Having the resources I needed to achieve my aspirations and contribute to the growth of my country through my work has added additional fuel to my journey, driving me forward and helping me confront whatever comes my way.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I mostly work on book covers and entire books for the children’s market, but I also specialize in surface design and editorial illustrations. Much of my inspiration is drawn from my cultural background, infusing my work with bold shapes, vibrant colors, and rich textures that reflect the essence of who I am.
While I’m incredibly proud of the recognition my work has received, what truly fulfills me is my involvement in book illustrations. Collaborating closely with authors to bring their stories and visions to life is where I feel most accomplished. Working with genuine and open-minded individuals, exchanging ideas, and witnessing the end result being something that ignites a child’s love for reading is especially gratifying to me.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Networking is absolutely crucial for illustrators, and from my experience, I’ve learned that getting involved in various university activities is one of the most effective ways to connect with professionals in the industry. If you’re a student, attend workshops, guest lectures, and industry events whenever possible. These opportunities not only provide valuable insights and learning experiences but also allow you to meet and connect with established artists, educators, and professionals in the field.
Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of online networking platforms such as LinkedIn. Building an online presence and engaging with other professionals can open doors to valuable mentorship opportunities and collaborations. Be proactive in reaching out, whether it’s to ask for advice, seek feedback on your work, or express your interest in learning from someone experienced in the field.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mariacamilagiron.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariagironart/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maría-camila-girón-485158224/
