What is the best thing that I love about my work?
As a concept artist and illustrator, I like it when I can evoke emotions in other people in some way, be that by making them happy by looking at my work, or thoughtful, or any other feeling. I also enjoy working with other people (i.e. doing designs for a game or animated movie) and see everything coming together in the end after everyone did what they do best.
What is my idea of perfect happiness?
Being at peace with myself, and feeling “in tune” with my surroundings. Being able to live a life with my loved ones (and chocolate) and having the luxury of spending most of my time with tasks that I enjoy doing.
What is my greatest fear?
Losing the people I love most in my life, and losing my ability to get back up and try again after failure.
What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?
Lack of self confidence – I’m pushing myself hard to not allow myself being too timid or shy, and to do things despite being anxious, but more often than not I find myself wishing I didn’t have to always fight myself in addition to whatever obstacle I am trying to overcome.
Which living persons in my profession do I most admire?
There are too many to mention, but here is a selection:
– Nathan Fowkes for the sense of life and light he achieves with sometimes very few brushstrokes
– Lane Brown for the sense of light and life he infuses in his images
– Jeph Jacques for creating an universe of inclusion and diversity with his webcomic
– Even Amundsen for the sense of character and storytelling in his artwork
What is my greatest extravagance?
I love to travel, it’s a huge source of inspiration and personal growth for me. So whenever I go to a place for professional or personal reasons, I try to afford some extra time and money to actually get around and explore.
On what occasion would I lie?
I don’t believe in lying, honesty is one of the traits I value most in people (and myself). Sometimes we have to choose our words carefully to deliver a painful truth in the most gentle way, but in the end I would always recommend to not use outright lies. I would lie if it is needed to ensure someone’s safety though, or if the truth would violate someone else’s privacy (i.e. outing an LGBT+ person without consent).
What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?
I have a lot of trouble to focus on one thing or subject matter and develop a trusted and proven workflow and style. I enjoy working in different areas and with different techniques, so my work as a whole can sometimes feel inconsistent.
When and where was I the happiest, in my work?
I love the moment during painting or concepting when I can see how everything suddenly comes together and starts working the way I intended it to, especially when struggling beforehand. Sometimes a painting looks bad for a while, but eventually things fall into place and start looking good.
If I could, what would I change about myself?
I would make myself more self confident, making myself believe more in myself, my skills, my value. That said, I am actively working on doing just that – throughout our lifetime we are constantly changing and evolving, whether we are aware of it or not. I believe it’s a good thing to be mindful of that, and try to grow into a direction we can appreciate.
What is my greatest achievement in work?
Being completely self-taught I think it is an achievement in itself to be where I am (and to go where I will go in the future, hopefully), as learning to paint and draw is not an easy road.
Where would I most like to live?
There are many places I would be excited to live at some point, anywhere in the world. I am trying to stay open in that regard so I can take a job in any city, should an opportunity arise.
What is my most treasured possession?
My body and mind. They are unique, and worth being taken good care of.
What is my most marked characteristic?
When I truly believe in something, I can be very persistent in trying to achieve what I set my mind to doing or achieving.
What is my most inspirational location, in my city?
I currently live on the countryside, not in a city. The forests around where I live are beautiful, I love going there to be alone and recharge or think, or just to get some movement into my days of sitting still while painting.
What is my favourite place to eat and drink, in my city?
My kitchen. I enjoy cooking, baking and eating a lot!
What books influenced my life and how?
“Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” always spoke to me because it’s so weird and different, and that is also where its beauty lies. “ The Brothers Lionheart” by Astrid Lindgren was one of the books that taught me the love of reading at an early age, I stopped counting the number of re-reads at 20+ (as a child).
Who are my favorite writers?
Brandon Sanderson, Patrick Rothfuss, Tamora Pierce, Robin Hobb, Edgar Allan Poe. I prefer reading by book and recommendation though, so what I like to read is not limited to those authors.
You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?
The same I listen to during all the other days. Mostly classical music and metal, complemented by some soundtrack music, sometimes mixing in some electronic, pop or indie music. So maybe some old Nightwish songs, or Sonata Arctica.
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?
Always the one I am currently reading about!
Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?
My parents, who are amongst the most caring, compassionate and loving people in the entire universe (or all universes). I also admire people who are intelligently outspoken about cases they care about, like Emma Watson.
Which movie would i recommend to see once in a lifetime?
Grave of the Fireflies. Bring tissues.
What role plays art in my life and work?
A big one obviously, as it is both my profession and my entertainment. I believe that art in any shape, from visual arts, literature, performing arts, video games, music or film and everything else, plays a very important part in any society.
Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?
My girlfriend sticks with me through thick and thin. Being an artist herself, she understand the struggles and hardships coming with this profession and always has an open ear for me. My family is also hugely supportive, so I guess that makes it a “greatest fanclub”!
Whom would I like to work with in 2018?
Working alongside friendly colleagues in an in-house job would be a lovely change to my current freelance career!
Which people in my profession would i love to meet in 2018?
I will be attending THU conference in Malta later this year, so I am hoping to meet a lot of other artists there, old friends and new ones alike!
What project, in 2018, am I looking forward to work on?
I am currently working on a rather ambitious project for my portfolio, which is also what I am looking forward to continue doing. Other than that, I am looking forward to working on any interesting projects prospective clients might contact me for!
Where can you see me or my work in 2018?
Online Portfolio: http://lyraina.com/
Artstation: https://www.artstation.com/lyraina
Print Store: https://www.inprnt.com/gallery/lyraina/
What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?
We may change careers, jobs, and interests, but hopefully never stop being passionate about *something* in life.
Which creative heroines should Peter invite to tell their story?
Yen Shu Liao, concept artist for creatures, environments & props
Angelique van der Mee, Concept Artist & Illustrator
Kristina Gehrmann, illustrator and comic artist
How can you contact me?
Feel free to reach out to me at any time for work inquiries or otherwise:
E-Mail: artist@lyraina.com
Portfolio: http://lyraina.com
The Heroine's Journey 