Interview with Vector Artist Rechel Bacasno

Welcome to the world of Vector! This is what Shadowness Shouted in my face when I first came aboard. To be honest, I had only seen a few vectors in my life at that point and I had no idea what a vector or vexel entailed. I spent several weeks studying, researching techniques and digging through tutorials. I came back to SN with a different perspective. Ms. Bacasno's work is a great example of what can be done with vector. It requires a vast attention to detail and good reverse planning skills. You have to KNOW what you want to see in your final product and work layer upon layer to get there. Though she still considers herself a beginner, I think you'll find some lessons in her work, just as I have.

How did you begin vectoring? Did you learn at school or was it a process from learning to draw, paint or other art mediums?

I started vectoring when i was in my 3rd year of college. Though I am an advertising student, (we were not taught this kind of art) we’re more on product layouts, tvc storybord, etc. What triggered my interest in this field of art was that everytime I see my pictures or my classmates’ images, they are cartoon-like through vectoring.
The first ever person who introduced vectoring to me was Chiyo. We we’re classmates in college and she's a very good friend of mine. She makes vectors using Corel Draw. I started doing my personal study about vectoring since 2009.

Who have been your greatest artistic teachers and influences?

I think probably my father. During my childhood days, I would often see my father doing some painting chores. He keeps some drawing tools, painting materials, silkscreens and lettering paraphernalia around.
He is also a photographer. I can definitely say that I got my love of art from him. I would also like to give credit to some like KDLIG(my favorite artist), Stuntkid, ChewedKandi, Reiq(he’s a manga artist but his coloring skill is exceptional), Warren Louw (also a manga artist), Hysterical Minds, Daniela Uhlig and Aseo who inspired me all the more.

When it comes to vector work, what do you think is most important?

Just because one can trace an image using pentool doesn’t mean you’re a Vector Artist. Vectoring should have no limits! It should be creativity over skill. Do something different, don’t just copy or else you’ll only create a 2nd rate version of your reference. Never posterize, let your creativity be your guide!

What are your long term artistic goals? Do you have a dream-job that you would like, or would you rather work freelance as an artist, or not work at all?

I am currently working as an illustrator, I design applications/games for Samsung phones.
I could say that I’m already living my dream, but I always want to better my best. As they say, “Contentment is the end of learning”, but for me learning is a never-ending process. I will never settle for what I am at present for I know I still have lots to offer.

What is your greatest achievement? What helped you to get there?

Honestly, at present, despite my accomplishments, I still consider myself as a beginner. It is really only now that I am exploring and enjoying what I may possibly produce with my skills in Adobe. I like my work to bear my identity,so that everytime people would look at it they would see me the artist beyond my signature. I find fulfillment, satisfaction and very much elation every time my work is being featured in any magazines or websites like Abduzeedo, Shadowness, Vectips and DA.

How did you find out about Shadowness? What helped you decide to stay?

My VxV PH family, most of them have an SN account, which stirred up my curiosity. I checked the site and I found it very cool, so I joined.

Do you have anything you’d like to say to the members of Shadowness?

Indeed, Shadowness helps me a lot. Unlike the other art community, they lead artists to become closer and enable them to converse. Everytime you post an artwork there is a reciprocated comment or feedback. In addition to this, the website team is very approachable and down to earth.
To all members of Shadowness, I can say that this site has a long way to go so let’s just continue to support it.


You can find my work here:
http://www.shadowness.com/hanabacasno
http://hanagurl.deviantart.com/

Jun 15th, 2011