Today we’d like to introduce you to Alejandra Yuriar.
Hi Alejandra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was always doodling in classes; in high school, I knew I wanted to study something related to art but 12 years ago it didn’t seemed possible to make a living with an art degree. Out of pressure, I ended up studying computer engineering, I wasted two years of my life there. I hated it so much, I dropped out and applied to art school. Best decision of my life. It wasn’t easy but I got my art degree! After graduation, I was lost and depressed. I slowly started posting my artwork on Instagram, to my surprise I started getting new followers and people really seemed to like my stuff. Then I started to sell my merch in local events, continued to post more regularly on Instagram, and collaborating with people. In the beginning of the pandemic is where I blew up, posted illustrations almost daily and I started getting messages from people wanting to collaborate with me. Today everything feels more real, I have a job and I (mostly) love it.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I have always been a shy person; I don’t talk much. Everything gives me anxiety; I struggle a lot with normal day-to-day tasks and it stops me from doing stuff I want to do. Is not always easy, but I’m trying to relate more with people, especially fellow artists. I have started to give myself more compassion, learning what works for me and not put too much pressure on myself. Take things at my own pace and surround myself with people who understand. My art has allowed me to express myself in a non-verbal way and I feel very grateful people are interested in what I have to say.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in illustrations and ceramics. I’m known for my character Pepe, a little fat dog. Pepe is based off me, Pepe speaks for me. I like to draw magical places, happy places, and sometimes funny scenarios about my dumb life. But I don’t always say happy things, I like to keep it real. Sometimes I’m afraid to overshare but those illustrations seem to be the most well-received. I like to let it all out, there’s no way everyone is always happy. I just try to be real with everything I do.
What matters most to you?
Be authentic in everything I do, stay honest and speak from my experiences. Working with open-minded people and with similar work ethics to mine. Honestly, I just want to be happy and be content with the artwork I create.
Contact Info:
- Email: contactoaleyuriar@gmail.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/alejandrayuriar
