We are so proud of our Make Art That Sells Alumni, that we are pleased to continue a series of spotlight interviews showcasing their successes and artwork. We also ask them to share how the MATS courses have helped them learn and grow. You can see more Alumni Success stories here
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Today, we have an interview with Maria Parrish. Maria has taken MATS A and Bootcamp.
Tell us a little about how you got started in art and design
Hello, My name is Maria Parrish and I’m from Guatemala living the San Francisco Bay Area. I always knew I wanted to be a creative person of some sort. When it came to college my parents told me I had to learn “computers” and I wasn’t fond of that so to please them I ended up taking a Photoshop class, that counts as “computers” right? I loved it so much that I became a graphic designer and did it for many years.
I worked at an arts and crafts studio designing how-to books but then felt like something was missing. I no longer wanted to design books I wanted to be the artist in those books.
I became a mom and stayed home and started doodling again and taught myself illustrator. I did art for my kid such as invitations, coloring pages, that sort of thing. I started to build my portfolio but wanted to take it to the next level, after all I never studied to be an illustrator.
Lilla always says “People buy your joy.” What brings you joy?’
My kids bring me joy! I like to draw for them! But definitely color, lots and lots of colors!
Which is your favorite market(s) to design for and why?
Children’s books and fabrics are my favorites because I get to design for my kids. Designing for children is always new and exciting!
What are you working on currently?
Quinceañera gift bags, and preparing my portfolio for Surtex
What are some of the key things you have learnt from the MATS experience?
To love my quirks because that makes me unique. Not to be afraid of experimenting and try new things. Sometimes I get stuck on a color scheme or theme. Mats definitely helped me venture out of my comfort zone.
How have the classes helped your artwork evolve /grow?
Let me start with a quote: “If you want something you never had before you gotta do something you never done before” Started designing with real projects in mind. I was no longer designing for the imaginary client but for the potential one. Lilla always provided new projects I’ve never done before and my art became better for it!
Any aha moments during MATS you would like to share?
When I became a GTS semifinalist, and realized, hey I’m good enough to do this!
What are your key successes since taking a MATS class?
I was a finalist for Mats global art gathering poster design. It was such a fun experience and helped me grow as a designer. I also found an agency and had an opportunity to show my work at different exhibits like Surtex.
How would you describe taking a MATS class to a fellow artist?
It’s like following a workout regimen for your creativity! No matter what level you’re at you can find inspiration, support, and encouragement in the Mats community. You will grow and succeed I guarantee it!
What is your dream gig for your artwork?
I would like to continue doing children’s art and would like to see it licensed on my products world-wide. I want to walk into as store and say “I made that”!
See more of Maria’s work here: Website | Facebook
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Would you like to experience the Make Art That Sells class yourself? Browse our live and self-paced classes here
Graduates of our courses have gone on to win work from clients such as Hallmark, Robert Kaufman Fabrics, Oopsy Daisy, Uppercase Magazine, West Elm, Midwest CBK, and more. It is industry learning that works in the real world. Find out more HERE and start today!
