Today we’d like to introduce you to Paola Olivares.
Paola, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am a freelance illustrator and story artist, who is originally from Manila, Philippines. I moved here to California back in 2008 shortly after I graduated high school to study animation.
After graduating from California State University Fullerton in 2014 with a BFA in Entertainment Art/Animation, I briefly worked as a storyboard artist for an independent company, “Crusty Beach Studios”, before I gave birth to my son.
Starting in 2015, I established my art business “Art Of PAO”, and became a full-time freelance artist whilst being a stay at home mom.
To kickstart my art business, I thought of ways to help promote my art, so I began doing conventions such as WonderCon, DesignerCon, and most recently L.A. Comic-Con. In addition, I have participated in art shows for galleries such as Leanna Lin’s Wonderland, The Perky Nerd, POPzilla to name a few.
As I started to grow a following while doing more events throughout the years, I strive to draw inspiration from my love for all things cute and animated as well as my Filipino roots in creating my art.
Recently, I finished working on a book project for a children’s book author. The book will be released sometime Winter 2019/Spring 2020.
Currently, I am preparing for the last few big events that I am signed up to do before the end of this year. In addition, I am working on my 3rd solo art show that will open on November 30th at FrankieLucy Bakeshop in L.A.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
This art journey that I have been of for quite some time now has been a steady climb. Though it was difficult at the beginning of the path, I think I have found my artistic style and audience by staying true in creating what I love as well as being consistent with my art. I always aim to make artworks that are of quality versus quantity.
We’d love to hear more about your art.
Art Of PAO is basically the art business name that I go by when I do conventions. I am the owner and artist of the business. I create all of the artworks as well as packaging and shipping everything to my beloved clients.
I am proud of how much growth the business has come from where it began. What truly makes me happy is that people have started to recognize my art business due to my Filipino-inspired artworks and merchandise that I have created being shared and advertised on social media especially on Instagram.
Instagram has definitely given a major boost in promoting my artworks to both locally and internationally.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I believe that being positive in one’s outlook in anything is a great motivational push for me in trying to achieve my goals in life and business.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.artofpao.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/artofpaolaolivares
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArtOfPAO
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