Illustrator Yvonne Claire shares some of her thoughts on her work. See these stunning works at the next Los Angeles showcase at Elevate Lounge on Thursday, September 16th! 

Tell us about yourself and how you first got started illustrating? 
I translate life into art with texture, color, multiple lines, and layers to tell a visual story. Some pieces capture a simple moment, a look, others are processed over time. I create intuitively, pulling from the inside, out to capture something beyond the naked eye.  I was born with the gift of artistic talent; my parents are both artists. I spent my time in my dad’s darkroom and studio, in museums drawing knights, in pottery class; I was encouraged and educated in the arts from a very early age- learning the principals and methods of photography, airbrushing, color and design etc.

From where do you draw inspiration for your work?
It's more about what compels me to create- living life would be the simplest way to describe. I paint intuitively, so it's hard to point at one thing.

What do you love most about what you do? 
I love the process of creating- the lines, mixing/application of paint, being messy and spontaneous- I get more satisfaction from the process than the actual finished piece. The finish work is for the visual fulfillment of the viewer.

 Do you engage in, or draw inspiration from, any other forms of art?
 I’m always impressed by anything stimulates my senses, I must have music! Deep/Classic House music moves my soul.  I love the poetic-truths and soul in real hip-hop, Neo/Soul. 

From start to finish, explain your process; what does a typical art-making day look like for you?
It’s a private process, I like to be alone (with the exception of my dogs).  I generate a flow of energy;  turn on the music, prepare my creative area, pace back and forth, once I feel in harmony, creativity takes hold of me, it's very rare that my art is premeditated, I start downloading. I just let go on to the page/canvas until the spell is over, it could last 20 minutes or all day. When I’m done, I take a nap.

Medium of choice?
Pen & paper or acrylic & canvas. 

Are there any artists or art movements, past or present, that strongly inform and influence your work? 
There are a number of artist that influence me to create and pursue my creativity.  Visionaries, people who live a creative life - Basquiat, Banksy, Faith 47, Warhol, Erykah Badu, Alicia Keys, Mos Def - anyone that creates something that has a depth/emotion/truths. 

Any previous exhibitions/collaborations that you are particularly proud of? 
My art was featured in the Femme Fatale Art, Fashion & Hair Show, earlier this year, a truly epic night.  I personally had an excellent response to my work, received many compliments, it was inspiring & motivational.

Any accomplishments/goals you hope to achieve as an artist in the future?
I’ve been working on a blog, The Sidewalk Love Affair, (www.sidewalkloveaffair.com) it's a growing collection of art, music, travels, and inspirations, dedicated to the endless details, conversations and actions that make up life. One day, I’d like to grow that into a publication . 

Why showcase at RAW? 
It's an opportunity to showcase my work, network and have some fun.