We recently connected with Sofia Naveira and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Sofia with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
Definitely shonen anime. When I was a kid I was really obsessed with Naruto, his ambition and persistence inspired me a lot. I got a tattoo recently as a reminder of that but I usually think of him when I feel like giving up.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Currently I work as a design freelancer but eventually I want to break into feature film as a concept or background artist. I really love painting with color and texture and I’m definitely more driven towards darker, fantasy/sci-fi genres like Dune or Arcane.
If this art shit doesn’t work out I’m becoming a DJ.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Authenticity- Just being authentic with your work and with the people around you is a good thing. A lot of people make things with the intention of satisfying an audience- i don’t think that resonates with people nearly as much. I don’t think you’d get fulfillment out of making art, which should be the point of creating in the first place
Kindness is important. No one wants to work with a jackass.
Exercise. Drawing is just a lot of sitting and shrimping for hours on end so you should move…even if it’s a little walk!
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
CHARLES KWANG!!!! all my friends from ArtCenter but him especially because he’s so super duper awesome.
My mom and my partner, my instructors, especially Miki Hunt, Bob Hunt, Jim Salvati, there are way too many people. I’m incredibly lucky to have so much support in my circle.
And my cat Tora.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://soofchuart.squarespace.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soofchu
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofia-naveira-castro-533613230
- Twitter: https://x.com/s00fchu/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
