Meet Michelle Wirono | Concept Art & Visual Development Artist

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

Hi Michelle, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
Not too long ago, I came across a quote that deeply resonated with me: “More is lost by indecision than the wrong decision.” This quote holds particular significance for me as I often find myself paralyzed by perfectionism and fear when faced with new challenges, such as beginning a new drawing on a blank canvas or taking on freelance work. However, upon reflection, I’ve come to realize that this quote carries an important lesson: it is far better to take the leap and embrace the opportunity to learn from mistakes. Each perceived misstep is simply another path leading us closer to our desired destination.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My expertise lies in concept art and visual development, where I bring characters to life through crafted designs, illustrations, and initial concepts. Whether it’s for animation or games, I am deeply passionate about the art of storytelling, using vibrant colors and simple shapes as my tools of expression. One of my greatest joys is transforming ordinary subjects into enchanting and visually captivating creations, which you can see in my plein-air paintings.

The journey to landing my dream job and relocating to Los Angeles was far from smooth. As an international student, I faced the daunting reality of having only three months after graduation to secure a job and maintain my residency in the United States. The pressure was immense, as I needed to prove my worth and demonstrate that I possessed the necessary skills to remain in the country. Consequently, much of my junior and senior years were dedicated to tirelessly working on my portfolio, hoping to secure a job or internship before graduation.

Furthermore, the distance from my family and friends meant that I lacked the usual support system during this pivotal chapter of my life. However, despite the challenges and hardships, I am grateful for the experience. It has taught me the invaluable lesson of maintaining a positive mindset even in the face of adversity.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Without a shadow of a doubt, my top recommendations would be Simpang Asia and Borneo Kalimantan! As a fellow Indonesian, I often struggle to find authentic Indonesian cuisine in the United States. However, these two restaurants have truly mastered the art of serving exceptional dishes that transport me back to the flavors of home.

In addition to that, I would highly recommend exploring Hermosa and Redondo Beach for a delightful seafood experience and a leisurely stroll. These coastal gems offer a serene and laid-back atmosphere, making them the perfect spots to unwind and enjoy some delicious seafood delicacies.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family for their unwavering support in my artistic pursuits. Coming from an Asian household and community, where the emphasis is often on careers like engineering, medicine, and entrepreneurship, I often felt like an outsider when asked about my aspirations. However, my parents have consistently encouraged me to follow my passion, reminding me that when I do what I love, it never feels like work. I am deeply thankful that they instilled this belief in me, as it has allowed me to turn my doodles and drawings into a fulfilling profession.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the professors and mentors at Columbus College of Art & Design. They not only imparted their knowledge and skills in art, but they also guided me in discovering my unique artistic voice through the intricacies of shape language and color theory. Their guidance has been instrumental in shaping my creative journey.

Additionally, I want to give a special shout-out to the Asians in Animation (AIA) community. Being an international individual pursuing my dreams in the United States, I often experience feelings of isolation. However, AIA has provided me with a supportive and inclusive community where I can connect with like-minded individuals who share similar aspirations in the entertainment industry. Through AIA, I have found a sense of belonging and valuable opportunities for growth.

Website: https://www.scribblerabbit.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scribblerabbit/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellewirono/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/scribblerabbit

Other: https://www.inprnt.com/gallery/scribblerabbit/