First Impressions: Margaret Morales
Video games have had a strong influence on this Filipino visual artist
Playing video games has had a strong influence on this Filipino visual artist.
Where did you grow up and how has this influenced your art?
I grew up in a part of the Philippines where the mountains and beaches are just a few hours away. Every year, our family would go on vacations close to nature. I think being immersed in these places, and having a backyard full of flowers and fruit-bearing trees to play around when I was a kid, have greatly influenced my love for natural elements. My parents have also been supportive of our creative hobbies and interests ever since we were little.
What, outside of art, has most influenced your artwork?
Gaming. Not only has playing online games paved the way for me to gain new friends, it’s also helped flourish my interest in character designing, costume creation and fantasy worlds.
Does one person stand out as being helpful during your early years?
My mum used to teach both my sister and I how to draw, but it was my sister who really helped me hone my drawing skills when we were young. We both adored the same things and we both loved to do art. She critiqued my progress and became my earliest teacher in drawing characters. There’s never been an artist in our family, so naturally, no one ever imagined or suggested that being an artist would make a great career. But my sister has always encouraged me to pursue art and do what I want, no matter what other people say.
What was your first paid commission, and does it stand as a representation of your talent?
My first art-related commission was drawing a client’s portrait. I do love painting faces and I was happy to do them at that time, but it isn’t what I envisioned doing in the long run.
What’s the last piece you finished, and how do the two differ?
My latest work is an original fantasy piece for a collective auction. It had more detailing, confident lines and more harmonious colour application. That first commission had more realistic features and had stiff lines compared to how I draw female portraits now. I’ve slowly built up my skills and confidence throughout the years, and the difference clearly shows.
What are your painting rituals?
Before I begin painting, I prepare all the materials and references that would help me build my concept. Clean lines are important to me since they serve as my guide through the painting stage. I also love working with natural light so the space I’ll work in should have ample lighting.
How is your art evolving?
My art has changed a lot during the past couple of years, and I think it’s started to mould into the style I’ve been working on. I’ve been constantly trying to experiment with different mediums, techniques and subjects to challenge myself, and allow room for growth.
What does the future hold for you?
I’ll continue to strive and improve my craft. It’s been my dream to create an art book that I can be proud of, so it may be something I’ll slowly build in the next couple of years. There are also so many projects that I plan to venture in, like character designing and book cover illustrations, so there’s a lot to be excited about!
Margaret is a visual artist known for her stylised watercolour portraits in vibrant surreal settings. Her works have been exhibited and sold in various galleries and collectors around the world. Explore more of her art at www.margaretmorales.com.
It was my sister who really helped me hone my drawing skills when we were young