Conversations with Claire Rodriguez

Today we’d like to introduce you to Claire Rodriguez.

Claire, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In high school, I watched Up and Toy Story 3 and my love for animation grew from there. I attended Cal State Northridge to major in art and took mostly animation classes. I always loved drawing backgrounds even in high school. Once I took a perspective class, I focused more on background art and painting. After graduating from Northridge, I could not land a job in the animation industry, but I continue creating backgrounds for animated shorts and painting in my spare time.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has been a struggle when it comes to landing a job in the animation industry. It can seem discouraging because I work other jobs to get by and I get wrapped up in life that I do not have time to draw and paint consistantly. Now, I try to make it a goal to draw or paint for an hour or two each day.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I draw background designs for animated projects and paint my favorite shows and movies. I spealize in digital and traditional painting. Some of my work would be described as cozy and cute at times.

I am proud of being part of projects that helped voice Latino/a voices in animation so they can tell their stories through this medium.

What sets me apart from others is understanding and studying different art styles to adapt and being able to recreate that style. I also love adding some easter eggs to the backgrounds to make them a little personal.

What were you like growing up?
I grew up in Oxnard, California, and I always love sunny weather, but I grew up loving a lot of horror and dark stories. My grandpa took me to the movies through my childhood through adulthood, and that is where my love for movies and animation stems from.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://clairerodriguezdesigns.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claire.paints.stuff
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarissa-rodriguez-a6498b109/
• Twitter: https://x.com/ClairesPainting
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@clairepaintsstuff
• Other: https://bsky.app/profile/clairepaintsstuff.bsky.social