Erica: Let's get started by getting to know who Something Whimsical is. Vincent: Well, my name is Vincent Corona-Evans. I'm a freelance Illustrator and have been one for over 12 years now. Most of my art up to this point has been tailored to my clients and their needs. So, Something Whimsical allows me to go in a different direction and have fun doing it. My Etsy shop is pretty much me with help from my wife Maribeth.
Erica: When did you first become interested in art? What medium did you begin working with at that point? Vincent: I would have to say my first influence was my parents. I became interested in art at a very young age. My father hand drew a book on dinosaurs for me and I couldn't believe how cool it was. He also used to make me robots out of pipes and tubing and nuts and bolts. He was a very creative plumber. My mom gave me a lot of encouragement as well even though I’d make flip books out of every pad or checkbook she owned. As far as mediums go, I would have to say anything and everything, from charcoal and pencil to oil and acrylic paint to clay, wood and metal. I created books of ideas, because I didn't have enough time in the day to finish things. I was a bit of a nut. I guess I still am.
Erica: In the beginning did you ever dream that you would be selling, or providing, your artwork to the public? Vincent: When I was younger, I didn’t think about it. As I got older, I enjoyed looking at and buying other people’s work. Their success inspired me and gave me confidence to show my own work and to eventually sell it.
Erica: Was there anyone that gave you a nudge to make your work available to a wider audience via the Internet?
Vincent: Something Whimsical really came from listening to my wife (briefmoments.etsy.com) and my sister (uncorked.etsy.com). Both of them have great shops and are posting and buying through Etsy all the time. Actually, my niece (buttonenvy.etsy.com) was the one who introduced Etsy to my sister who then in turn introduced Etsy to my wife and me. It’s become a family thing. In the creation process, my wife is a big help and influence. She has a great eye for detail and keeps me on track. My sister has been a huge help as well.
Erica: The question that all artists must face in an interview: Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Vincent: I draw my inspiration from the people and places and things around me. Something Whimsical, for me, is from my childhood. It’s my inner kid having fun.
Erica: I know this can be a difficult thing to answer, but do you have a current favorite creation? Any piece that stands out due to process or learning while completing it? Vincent: Right now, the whole Etsy Store is my favorite creation. It allows me to post some very different items and connect with other artists and creative people I wouldn’t normally meet. It’s been a great experience so far and I’ve learned a lot.
Erica: To what level would you like to take your work? Either as an artist or as a business.
Vincent: I enjoy illustrating and creating images and I’ve been advertising nationally now for a couple years with some great results. My goal is to have one of my illustrations on the cover of Time Magazine. We’ll see what happens.
Erica: Do you have a personal Web site, or is Etsy currently the only place to find your work online?
Vincent: I have a business website (http://www.corona-evans.com) and a portfolio website with the Directory of Illustration
Erica: Before we wrap it up is there anything else you would like to add? Vincent: Just that I enjoyed answering your questions and I really appreciate your interest in my work. Thank you so much for this opportunity to share my thoughts on your blog.
Erica: Thank you, Vincent, for taking the time to participate in Etsy Treasures. Everyone remember to check out Something Whimsical on Etsy for some great artwork!
Something Whimsical
www.SomethingWhimsical.etsy.com
www.SomethingWhimsical.etsy.com
