Today we’d like to introduce you to Maya Vagedes
Hi Maya, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Absolutely! My earliest memories have been princess coloring pages and my mother giving my sister and I a pack of crayons and small notebook to keep ourselves company at restaurants. From an early age, I learned to love art and color. Growing up as a military brat, my family and I had the incredible opportunity to live overseas twice, in London, England and Naples, Italy. Although you might think I’d be thrilled by these twice-in-a-lifetime experiences, the vastness of the world and people’s differences initially scared me. Art became my coping mechanism and provided a retreat into a controlled imagination.
However, as I traveled and ventured into the unknown, I began to gather inspiration, appreciate different cultures and perspectives, and marvel at each country’s beauty. This led to the realization that I could use art as a unique way to connect with others. My skills in observation and traditional media exponentially increased as I devoted more of my free time to drawing.
My hobby turned into a burning passion when I attended a virtual National Portfolio Day where art schools critiqued my AP Drawing portfolio. These institutions introduced me to the multitude of potential art careers and deepened my appreciation for my artistic abilities. Instead of majoring in biology, I chose to join SCAD, where I am now a senior illustration student! I’ve since fallen in love with surface design, digital illustration, and the beautiful European feel of Savannah. These experiences helped me discover the true purpose of my work: to provide smiles, connect with others, and create stories about exploration and help people relate to the world as I did growing up.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My life has been full of twists and turns. The military lifestyle is not an easy one and there were many difficulties that came with leaving friends, switching schools, and encountering constant change, especially in the middle of high school. However, these challenges can’t compare to experiencing my freshman year of university. Throughout our many military moves, my family and I had consoled and relied on each other for support. But this was the first time I would be over 1,000 miles away and officially on my own. My mental health caught up to me, but I learned so much about myself as a roommate, friend, student, and creative individual. I am very thankful for the struggles I have overcome as it has shaped me into the stronger person and artist I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a surface designer and illustrator! My artwork is inspired by my international experiences and the environment where I utilize digital and traditional media. I love vibrant colors, creating whimsical tales and characters, producing children’s illustrations, handlettering and designing graphics and patterns. In fact, I am currently working as a product development intern at Loloi Rugs in Dallas, TX where I help develop unique rug designs for major retailers. I also sell stickers and prints at Planet Fun, and am looking to expand into selling at more Savannah stores!
Aside from surface design, I enjoy dabbling in children’s illustration too! A dream of mine would be to write, illustrate and publish my own children’s book. Drawing inspiration from my military background, I want to create relatable stories for children who grow up moving around. I don’t remember having a character to confide in when I was little and hope to provide that connection for younger audiences. After taking a book illustration class, and delving into this concept, I have developed a strong starting point!
As previously mentioned, I strive to share the way people perceive their inner and outer worlds with others through my illustrations. I am very proud of how far I’ve come, and excited to see what more I can do!
What matters most to you? Why?
Family family family. Despite not settling in one place, we’ve always had each other’s back. My family and relatives have been immense supporters of my work, from hanging it onto the kitchen fridge to mounting framed pieces on the wall. My mother is my biggest cheerleader and follower. Her advice, critique, love, and wise quotes like “hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t want to work hard,” will always hold a special place in my heart. My sister, and closest friend, will not hesitate to purchase my products, while my father actively promotes my work through his job.
They don’t know it, but I also have to acknowledge my two cats for their comforting chaos and for being excellent muses. Additionally, I deeply value the connections and friends I’ve made at SCAD. I am fortunate to be a part of such a dedicated and talented community of peers and professors who have supported me wholeheartedly! As I approach my last year in Savannah, I want to continue to make the most of my experience.
Everyone, including my international and national friends through the years, has encouraged me to keep going and stay confident. Their overwhelming support has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams with determination and I am forever grateful.
Pricing:
- 11×14″ Graphite portraits: Starting at $200
- Please message me for other business inquiries!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mayavagedes.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayavagedes/
