We had the good fortune of connecting with Claire Mauvezin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Claire, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
Regarding art for animation, I would say one thing that outsiders are probably unaware of is that you have to know how to draw and paint realistically: “the real.” It’s important to learn this way first before diving into animated styles, and then you must continue practicing “the real.” Such as going to figure drawing workshops, painting from observation and studying light, shadow, and times of day and how that affects color temperature. Knowing “the real” helps you create believable fictional worlds.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For me artistically, so many classic, vintage things excites and inspires me, whether it is art styles, animation or live-action films, music (including old jazz), or good vintage fashion. These aspects inform my creativity, the work I create, the music I listen to, and even the way I dress. For example, I’ve created illustrations and character designs based on the world of old jazz. I feel that my interest in classic styles is what sets me apart from others, as I’ve never tried to make my art trendy, even if it isn’t the cool thing to do.

Without hesitation, it was not easy to get to where I am today with my work. The process of strengthening my artistic skills during college has been one of the most challenging times, however, one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. What keeps me going is reminding myself who I want to become as an artist, and that I’ve learned so much from my incredible teachers. Besides skill-based lessons, I’ve also realized that anything worth striving for isn’t easy, and not to let that discourage you. Be proud of learning itself, because anything worth learning isn’t easy.

The main thing I want people to know about me and my work is the message of being true to yourself, and simply, being real.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
You can’t go wrong with LA’s art, music, and great food. Some of my favorite museums I’d take my best friend to are The Broad and MOCA, spectacular music venues include the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl, and I’d take her to Bob’s Big Boy in Burbank for lunch and Musso & Frank Grill in Hollywood for dinner. The possibilities are endless with LA being the entertainment capital of the world.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to thank all my incredible professors and teachers at ArtCenter College of Design. I learned so much from you, not only about how to be the best artist I can be, but also about how to live my best life. I also want to thank my mom and dad for supporting me all throughout my artistic journey, and always believing in me.

Website: https://clairemauvezin.myportfolio.com

Instagram: @clairemauvezinart

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-mauvezin-25b580271/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.