Meet Natalie Squire | Illustrator & Designer

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

Hi Natalie, why did you pursue a creative career?
Art has always been my world. Whenever people ask when I started drawing, I say that I doodled just like every other kid does but simply never stopped as I grew up. I obsessed over animated films and the illustrations in children’s books, knowing that I wanted to be a part of making them. I think we all start off creative as children but somewhere along the long, people lose touch with that creativity because it is not deemed as important as other pursuits such as academics or athletics. I was fortunate enough to be raised in an environment that fostered and encouraged my creativity rather than hindering or dismissing it. As a shy, awkward teenager, art became my outlet for expression and catharsis and it is still to this day (albeit with a lot less angst nowadays). That it is not to say it doesn’t have its ups and downs. Being an artist comes with constant doubt on one’s own abilities and validity as a creative. These doubts will probably never go away but I try my best to use them as fuel to keep striving to improve and grow.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I try my best to capture moments and stories through my art, most often with people. Characters have always been the most impactful element of art for me. Whether it is observing someone go about their day and attempting to convey their essence on the page, or designing a character for a story, I want my subjects to feel alive.

I am still very much finding my footing in the industry but I have been fortunate to have great opportunities like designing for a short film, doing freelance commission work, and being accepted into Art Center College of Design which I will be attending starting Fall 2023.

If I’ve learned anything on my art journey, is that you will never feel like you’ve “made it” with your skill level or ability. There’s always someone who will have more experience or a higher skill level than you. This, on the surface, can be discouraging or intimidating which I have felt many times. But I have found that the best thing you can do for yourself is to find inspiration in these people and use that feeling of inadequacy to fuel your own growth in a positive way.

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?
I spend a lot of my time in Fullerton since I went to college there. My favorite place to eat is Roll and Grill, an affordable takeout sushi place. Another one of my favorite spots is the Night Owl, a coffee shop that I perform at every Tuesday at their open mic. I do a lot of plein air painting and there are many great painting spots such as the Fullerton Arboretum, Craig Park, and Grey Squirrel Trail (also a great place to hike). I’ve spend hours and these places just taking in the views and capturing them on paper.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My professors are Fullerton College have been instrumental to my growth as an artist and I would not be where I am without them. Thank you to Phil, Frank, Jackie, Jim, Garrett and Mike for everything you’ve taught me

Website: https://nataliesquire.myportfolio.com/portfolio

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/n.squirre/