With the internet being so easy to access, it has become easier for independent artists to find an audience and let their work be known. As a result, a variety of movements, collectives, and scenes have found a way to pave their path. The independent art scene in Puerto Rico is no different. Recently, many artists from a variety of disciplines have found platforms that have made it easier for them to share their work. In addition, small businesses such as Electroshock in Santurce and Rio Piedras, bars like Off The Wall in Mayaguez, and libraries like La Casita Books and Gifts in Aguadilla have provided up-and-coming artists a space to display their talents. “Puerto Rican Women Killing It in the Independent Art Scene” is a series of interviews that provides a glimpse at some of the women who have recently gained recognition in the art scene. Though the artists are asked similar questions, some are asked queries surrounding their work, specifically.
Stephany Moyano is an artist who mostly works with visual arts like drawing, illustration and digital arts. As she states “I make a lot of characters based on food and animals. I graduated from the University of Puerto Rico with a degree in Drawing in 2014.”
What got you into visual arts and comics?
I’ve been drawing since I can remember. So it’s something that has always been a part of me. Comics are something I got into more recently. I’ve only probably made a handful. I’m actually working on one right now about working in kitchens, it’s a longer story so it’s a bit of a challenge. Friends pushed me into doing them though, I had a handful of people always telling me to make comics until I finally did.
How did you develop your style?
Early on I didn’t listen to some people. I had a painting instructor in my childhood (but also professors in college) who didn’t like that I drew solid lines, to them using pure black on a canvas was sacrilege. They wanted me to stick to photorealism. Sometimes they insisted on focusing on the ideas behind the work instead of the work itself. All these things are valid for some and their art. But they weren’t for me and I’m glad I didn’t listen. I can’t say all teachers were counterproductive though. There were a few who taught me color, anatomy, techniques, and how to use software; lessons that are indispensable to me today. I owe a lot of my skill to some of those professors.
How has it evolved through the years?
I’ve stuck to linework for the better part of 15 years already. I think it all started when I began copying bad tattoo flashes from 50 cent sticker sheets, and anime pictures collected from the internet on floppy discs when I was around ten. I really liked the solid black lines and I had a lot of fun with that. It took a long time for my drawings to look decent though. I’ve picked up a lot of skills since then from different teachers, books and the internet. And I just draw a lot, my biggest growth usually happens when I’m drawing every single day.
What are some of your influences and inspirations?
Rebecca Sugar: It sucks that it took so long for a woman to have her own show. I’m really happy that Steven Universe has been successful because it opens new paths for women that want to get into the animation field.
Jamie Hewlett: He was the visual mind behind Gorillaz. I remember being ten years old watching “Clint Eastwood” on MTV and having my mind blown by the style.
Akira Toriyama: I drew a lot of Super Saiyans when I was in 6th grade.
Mike Judge, Arlene Klasky, Joe Murray, and other animators from the 90’s whose aesthetics had some influence on my own.
Many many more authors, illustrators, painters, etc,etc.
Is there any other form of art you wish to pursue? If so, what field and why?
I’d like to maybe do some animation at some point in my life. I’m not very good at it at the moment though.
What do you think about the current state of the arts in Puerto Rico?
I feel like there should be more opportunities for art to exist in our daily lives, I think that as a culture, we could embrace art more. People need to stop purchasing the cookie cutter art sold in the mall. But I also think this generation is slowly working on making art more present and it’s just something that takes time. I feel like art could be more present in the media as well but that’s a whole other story.
What do you think about the current state of the independent scene in Puerto Rico?
The independent art scene is thriving, festivals like Tintero, Timbiriche, and Santurce es Ley get fuller each year, and people are more aware that there’s an art scene and can talk about and identify local artists. Everyone is generally friendly and it’s just a pretty great thing to be a part of.
If a young girl came up to you and said she wanted to be an artist, what would be your advice for her?
Whatever it is you love to do. Do it every day. Don’t think too much about what other people say.
What is your biggest goal right now?
I would love to be able to pay all my bills with art-sweat.
What do you seek to achieve with work?
Honestly, I just like to draw. If I could draw everyday I would be happy, and any other achievements are just extra.
Follow Stephany Moyano on Instagram
All of the pictures in this article were provided by Stephany Moyano