IRA HELENA FLOROS

What’s your art background? 

I’m mostly self-taught, but I’ve taken lots of courses along the way and continue learning whenever I find the time. I love exploring new tools and techniques to keep evolving my style. 

List a few of your inspirations.

I often look to nature, old forests, light and shadow. I’m also inspired by bits of urban flora. Artistically, I’m inspired by painterly fantasy art, soft textures, expressive character design, and the imaginative worlds found in video games.

Preferred software/hardware for illustrating?

I do most of my work in Clip Studio Paint with a Wacom Intuos Pro, and I switch to my iPad Pro when I want to sketch or paint away from the desk.

What are some of your strengths in illustrating and weaknesses?

My strengths lie in landscapes and nature-focused illustrations, especially scenes with dramatic lighting and atmosphere. I’m working on improving character expressions to bring more emotion and clarity to the figures in my work. 

Favorite artworks you’ve done for Tetraverse.

The Phanty – Phantor – Phantadon manifestation line is definitely my favorite artwork I’ve created for Tetraverse.

Goals as an artist. Where do you want to be in your art career 5 years from now? 

Five years from now, I’d love to be working on bigger narrative projects. I actually started creating video games this year with my husband, which opened up a whole new creative path for me. In the next few years, I’d love to keep moving in that direction and eventually build a whimsical, hand-painted game, full of nature, cozy worlds, and soft storytelling.

Advice for new or aspiring artists.

Draw a lot, experiment often, and don’t stress about being perfect. Study the things that inspire you. Growth takes time, be patient with yourself.