UO Interviews: Ava May @exquisiteparadox
Taking inspiration from iconic 60s and 70s prints and colours synonymous with the revolutionary decades, Southern California based artist Ava May creates nostalgic and empowering illustrations featuring phrases to encourage well-being and self-care. Meet the artist and discover her world of all things retro.
Where did your art and design journey begin and what inspires you to create?
I have been creating for as long as I can remember, but only found my current style a little after high school. I wanted to explore beyond the realism I had been practicing and try out something new that was just for fun. I had no education in graphic design or digital illustration when I started, and as it progressed I learned everything from experience and the internet. What continues to inspire me to create is the empathy and struggles we all share within the human condition.
Tell us about the creative process behind your prints… My process starts with a phrase or sentiment that feels relevant to a personal or a collective experience. It is usually something that would have helped me to hear from someone else when I was struggling, and I want to share that sentiment for anyone who might be currently dealing with a similar situation. I use Adobe Illustrator for all of my work and enjoy tying elements of 60’s and 70’s design into the modern techniques I use. I want my art to feel timeless but also fresh, with playful colors and fonts surrounding mindful messages. Each finished print is hopefully something that not only decorates your wall but is a small part of your life, like a mantra to look to whenever you need.
How do you know when a piece is done?
When I look at a piece and feel that it effectively and compassionately communicates my message, taking into account how it may be perceived from different perspectives, then I know it is ready to be shared.
Sum up your artistic style in 3 words.. retro, playful, mindful.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
We are never done learning. Just do what you can with what you have — it is better to start now and imperfectly than to put off starting at all because you are waiting to have it all figured out.
Which emerging artists or artworks should we check out?
I am always inspired by my fellow artists and designers making their way through online platforms. Some that you should definitely check out are @lilynilly.art, @eden_clifton, @hannahpahl, and @poppycrew on Instagram.
I have been creating for as long as I can remember, but only found my current style a little after high school. I wanted to explore beyond the realism I had been practicing and try out something new that was just for fun. I had no education in graphic design or digital illustration when I started, and as it progressed I learned everything from experience and the internet. What continues to inspire me to create is the empathy and struggles we all share within the human condition.
Tell us about the creative process behind your prints… My process starts with a phrase or sentiment that feels relevant to a personal or a collective experience. It is usually something that would have helped me to hear from someone else when I was struggling, and I want to share that sentiment for anyone who might be currently dealing with a similar situation. I use Adobe Illustrator for all of my work and enjoy tying elements of 60’s and 70’s design into the modern techniques I use. I want my art to feel timeless but also fresh, with playful colors and fonts surrounding mindful messages. Each finished print is hopefully something that not only decorates your wall but is a small part of your life, like a mantra to look to whenever you need.
How do you know when a piece is done?
When I look at a piece and feel that it effectively and compassionately communicates my message, taking into account how it may be perceived from different perspectives, then I know it is ready to be shared.
Sum up your artistic style in 3 words.. retro, playful, mindful.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
We are never done learning. Just do what you can with what you have — it is better to start now and imperfectly than to put off starting at all because you are waiting to have it all figured out.
Which emerging artists or artworks should we check out?
I am always inspired by my fellow artists and designers making their way through online platforms. Some that you should definitely check out are @lilynilly.art, @eden_clifton, @hannahpahl, and @poppycrew on Instagram.