Today we’d like to introduce you to Leila Cothran.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
As long as I can remember, I have loved drawing and art has been a part of my life. It was always a passion and a constant in my world, but in 2007, I decided to take the leap and pursue my dream of being an artist full-time. I left my desk job behind and traded in a set schedule and routine for following my heart. In the beginning, it was scary and times were tough, but quitting was just not an option for me. I had to make it happen for myself. My persistence paid off, and “Illustrated Ink” grew and blossomed. I’ve been very blessed to have fantastic support from my family and those that believed in my work from the start. I would never have made it this far without them. I wake up each day and feel so thankful that my life is full of creating and joy.
Please tell us about your art.
I create illustrations and hand painted pieces that are inspired by traditional tattoo design and the holiday, “Dia de los Muertos” (Day of the Dead). I first learned about Day of the Dead while living in Mexico and attending the Art Institute in San Miguel de Allende. I instantly connected with the Mexican culture, colors, and their passion for life.
My hope is that people appreciate and understand the deeper beauty in my work and not just view it as skeletons or representations of death. While it is that on the surface, I want to convey that the holiday is actually about the celebration of life, honoring the deceased, and treasuring their memories. Perhaps also taking away some of the primal fear of death and allowing us to accept it as a part of life.
I feel that my work is different than much of the customary Day of the Dead art you’ll see, as I’ve combined it with my love of tattoo design, thus creating my own unique style. Much like Mexican folk art, Traditional tattoo art has bold lines and vibrant colors.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My work is available for sale via my Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/illustratedink. Retail establishments that carry my art and my upcoming show schedule are listed on my website.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.illustratedinkart.com
- Instagram: illustratedinkart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/illustratedinkart
- Twitter: @illustratedink
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/illustratedink
Image Credit:
Alex Dominguez (profile photo)
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