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

Hi Nicolás, what matters most to you?
A principle that matters the most to me is turning the negative into something positive. I often try to apply this on a daily basis by using whatever is bringing me down (such as anxiety or depression) to create something new. Doing so helps a lot as I use my art mostly as a venting method for my feelings.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My passion goes to visual development art, mainly backgrounds. I’m still a growing artist trying to break into the animation industry, but I think what I’m most proud about my work is the fact that I’m a fast learner and the skill level I’ve accomplished it’s been self taught, no college or art school involved. It definitely isn’t easy as I doubt myself a lot and I question if I’m actually good or just another one from the group. But what has definitely helped me overcome this, is just focusing on myself and my objectives, where I stand and where I want to be. That’s one of the lessons I’ve learnt so far, in the art world you have to stop comparing yourself too much to others or you’ll never give yourself space to grow and shine. I think my work has a very strong storytelling element to it and that’s what I want the world to see, feelings can be turned into images, in a direct or subtle way.

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.
My city (Quito-Ecuador) has many spots for tourists to visit, but the most important ones are definitely the cable car, the middle of the world statue and the historical old town. All of these places have exciting activities to do and restaurants with the most delicious traditional food.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a shoutout firstly to my parents, for not bringing me down when I told them I wanted to be an artist and providing me the resources and comfort to grow and improve at my own pace. And secondly, I would like to thank my best friend Kat, for carrying me through a very dark time in my life and letting me know I’m not alone.

Website: https://nicovisdev.myportfolio.com/

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

Twitter: http://twitter.com/lunarnico_

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.