We saw her art on Instagram for the first time (God bless hashtags!). And we immediately fell in love with her art. Her digital paintings look beautiful, but they’re also convey a serious message for all of us and most probably help understand the world better.
We decided to ask her how she uses Filter Forge in the workflow.
Our minds are complicated. Like a maze!
– To begin with: Can you please tell a couple of words about yourself and your interests?
My name is Joana Fraga, I am a brazillian illustrator. I have been working with illustration for 8 years now! My initial inspirations were all based on manga and anime styles, and I used to do lots of fanarts! Eventually I found more inspiration on unconventional and surreal themes, always trying to bring some sort of message or idea that people can instantly identify. I also love to draw themes that have to do with the universe and the unknown!
A kite has fallen on Neptune! Will she return it I wonder?
– How long have you been using Filter Forge?
I have been using Filter Forge for 2 years now. Most of my drawings have at least one or two filters even if it's subtle. It really adds to the texture!
Tea
– How did you learn about it?
I used a lot of Photoshop in my early days, but soon moved on to MangaStudio/Clip Studio Paint. Filter Forge came to me when I was trying to improve my workflow (I have a wrist issue so I can't draw for long periods of time). I was inspired by fellow artist Yuumei, who has several tutorials on how to use filters to speed up your drawing process.
1. Temple. 2. God is a Woman.
– What are your favorite filters? How do you use them?
Filter Forge offers a great range of painterly style filters, in which I usually generate about 3 or 4 of them and then use the best part of each on top of my paintings, like patchwork! That way the piece never looks like I just put a filter on top and each piece will look different from each other!
I get really happy when people compliment the texture of my works, so I know it's working! I hope to continue to do my own art and convey my messages to people who want to listen.
The Night Laundress
– Have you ever tried to make your own filters? If so, which ones?
I still haven't tried making my own filter! Since I patchwork many different filters to get the look I want, I don't feel the need to create one for now.
Do you think this is Sansa or Elsa?
– What filters and features are you missing in Filter Forge?
I would love more options of painterly filters! As for features... I still haven't figured out how to render different filters at the same time, hahaha.
Tiny King proposes to Sky Queen
We're grateful for your answers, Joana! You're an open-minded and easy-going girl and talented illustrator. Keep going and be happy!
