Meet Hannah Eberhardt | Visual Development Artist

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

Hi Hannah, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Balance is something I still struggle with. I used to throw myself into my work with little time for myself or a social life. I thought The harder I worked, the sooner I could accomplish my goals. I have come to realize that is no way to function. You need breaks to recharge and refresh your mind. It took a huge physical and mental toll before I realized I could not keep that lifestyle up.

Now, I force myself to step away on weekends to refresh my creativity. I thrive on problem solving and making things by hand so I take a break to work on another creative hobby. It’s difficult because art used to be a hobby, but now it’s my work. I can’t turn to it to relax as much anymore. I had to relearn how to relax and how to reset my energy. I turn to friends, crafts, and nature when I need to reenergize. There are still some days that I overwork myself, but I can’t beat myself up over those. It’s all about balance and prioritizing your body and mind.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a student at Art Center College of Design and Visual Development artist. I love storytelling and moving people emotionally with my art. My art reflects my creative colorful soul. I want to share that love and cheerfulness with the world.

It’s been a long journey that I’m currently in the middle of. As a student nearing the end of college, it’s complicated time. I am working as a freelance visdev artist as well as attending classes to finish my degree and continue learning. Landing my first freelance job was very validating. I never felt like my work was good enough, continuing to push myself to be better. Getting paid for my work makes me feel like I am worthy. Pushing past my self doubt is a difficult but worthwhile struggle.

The biggest lesson I learned is to be true to myself and be inspired by my own experiences. The pieces that most people interested in are the works that I put myself into. They can see my passion and excitement. Listen to what makes you happy and follow it. Express your joy and passion in your work.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would recommend Vrommans Bookstore, for their amazing selection of fantasy novels and art books. I spend hours pursuing the shelves and gathering inspiration.

My Vegan is a super tasty vegan Thai restaurant in Pasadena. As a vegetarian I love having meat free options, and I have an unhealthy addiction to their Pad Thai.

Playclothes is a delightful vintage store in Burbank filled to the brim with authentic pieces from different decades. As a historical fashion lover, I love getting inspiration for my art from their clothes. It doesn’t hurt that they have the cutest shop cat who loves snuggles.

Cantrip candles is a candle store that specializes in scents for Dungeon and Dragons encounters. I’ve bought many of their candles online but recently they opened up a storefront. If you want your room to smell like a mossy chapel, a tavern, or a library, this store is for you. They even have one that smells like freshly baked bread!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Noah Klocek was a very inspirational teacher I had at school. He pushed me to new levels creatively and changed the way I think about visual development. His mentorship thought out the class revolutionized my art.

Rachael Chan and Tiffany Chen are the most supportive friends one could ask for. They have encouraged me and helped me see past self inflicted doubt. Their work inspires me to push harder and be more true to myself, using art as a form of self expression.

Website: https://hannaheberhardt.myportfolio.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannaheber.art/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-eberhardt-a5a37920b/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/hannaheber_art