You often mention that your art is a way to create hope for those who feel unseen. When did you first realize that your work could have this emotional impact on others?

When I was young, I created art mostly in silence and imagination. For many years, from middle school through high school, I experienced bullying, and art was the only way I could express myself. It was my safe space, a way to tell stories and share emotions I couldn’t say out loud. For a long time, no one really noticed my work. I was just a simple kid drawing alone.

It was only later, when I slowly started showing my art, that people began telling me my work felt emotional and inspiring. That’s when I first realized it could reach others. I think it started the moment someone told me, “Your art made me feel something.” I don’t even remember exactly when that was, but I remember the feeling. In that moment, I understood that what I draw from my heart can speak to someone else’s.

Since then, I keep creating not just for myself, but to remind others, especially those who feel small or unseen like I once did, that their dreams matter and they shouldn’t give up. To show that even a dream that started quietly can travel far.

Vanessa V. Garcia | Only You | 2025

Your journey as an artist began at age seven. What early memories or influences shaped the way you create today?

I began creating art at the age of seven. Some of my earliest memories are of drawing in my own little world. Watching anime inspired me, making me imagine stories and characters. Growing up, I faced bullying and loneliness, and art became my companion, my way to express emotions I couldn’t share with anyone else.

My influences were simple the world around me, my imagination, and the desire to turn my feelings into something beautiful. These early experiences taught me that art isn’t just about technique ,it’s about sharing your heart, telling stories, and connecting with others. That’s why today, every piece I create carries emotion, hope, and a little piece of my journey. As talented artist I already know I wanted to be a artist in the beginning.

Vanessa V. Garcia | Orange | 2025

Many of your characters feel alive, expressive, and deeply emotional. How do you approach character design to achieve this sense of storytelling?

When I create characters, I always start with emotion and story. I imagine who they are, what they feel, and what moments they’ve lived, not just how they look. I give them gestures, expressions, and small details that reflect their personalities and struggles.

For me, character design isn’t just about visuals. It’s about bringing a soul to the page. I want people to feel a connection, to see a part of themselves or someone they know in my work. Every line, color, and pose is meant to tell a story and evoke emotion.

Your portfolio spans both digital and traditional media. How do these two mediums complement each other in your practice?

I started my art journey with traditional media, and it’s the foundation of how I understand form, color, and texture. I’ve been practicing traditional art for many years, and it continues to be a space where I explore ideas freely and deeply.

I learned digital art later for almost six years. And Having experience in traditional art for more longer years , I’ve still been learning as an artist. For me, nothing is impossible if you can draw in traditional media, you can also create digitally. With practice, you can work in both mediums. Digital art allows me to experiment faster, refine my work, and bring more versatility to my creations. Both mediums influence each other the discipline and depth of traditional art guide my digital work, and the flexibility of digital art inspires me to try new approaches in traditional pieces. Together, they expand the way I tell stories and express emotion in my art.

Vanessa V. Garcia | Waiting In Silence | 2025

Several of your artworks depict strong, magical, or introspective women. What inspires the themes and personalities of the characters you portray?

The characters I create are inspired by myself, my emotions, experiences, and dreams. I portray women who are strong, magical, and mysterious because they reflect the resilience and depth I’ve discovered within myself.

Through these characters, I explore strength, wonder, and the unknown, inviting viewers to connect with the power and emotion in each piece. They are a reflection of my journey, my imagination, and my desire to show that even in vulnerability, there is magic and courage.

Vanessa V. Garcia | Hazel In Gold | 2025

Your art includes elements of fantasy, romance, and realism. How do you balance these different artistic worlds in your creative process?

I blend fantasy, romance, and realism because each part lets me share a piece of my heart. Fantasy allows me to create worlds beyond what’s real, where emotions can be bigger and more magical. Romance shows connection, warmth, and love, while realism keeps the artwork grounded so people can feel and relate to it.

When I create, I let the story guide me what the characters feel, what the scene needs, and how it will touch someone’s heart. Balancing these worlds is about listening to the piece itself, making sure every element serves the emotion I want to share. Art…for me, is about giving hope through every layer of imagination and reality.

Vanessa V. Garcia | Where Petals Meet Twilight | 2025

How has your Filipino identity and cultural background influenced your artistic voice and themes?

My Filipino identity and cultural background are at the heart of everything I create. Growing up in the Philippines, I was surrounded by stories, colors, and traditions that shaped the way I see the world. The warmth, resilience, and hope in our culture inspire the emotions I bring into my art.

I often include elements of Filipino whether subtly in colors, motifs, or the strength and spirit of my characters. My art is a way to share a piece of my culture with the world, showing that stories, dreams, and creativity are powerful. As a Filipina artist , I draw strength from my faith and experiences, and I hope to inspire others to face any challenges with courage and determination. I believe in following heart dreams with faith and not letting anyone else dictate what you can achieve.

Your future is in your own hands, and through my work as an artist, I am proud to represent my creative and pursuing my lifelong passion.