Our artist of the Month for December may have waited a while before she delved into her interest in art, but she’s showing a lot of promise now. Gisela was born in Coamo, Puerto Rico in 1964, and loved drawing as a child, but never got serious about it until it became time to retire.

She developed an interest in computers around 2005, when her sister Grace taught her how to use them. Not long after, she began creating art using Paint Shop Pro 7 and pursues it as a hobby.

We congratulate Gisela and bring you this Q&A to get to know her better.

Q&A with Gisela

What was your first interest in computers and what did you like doing with them?

I developed an interest in browsing Customized Barbies art galleries through the web before starting to make my own artwork using the aforementioned PSP 7.

How long have you been creating art of any kind and what/when did you move into computer graphic arts?

I've been making art for around 20 years, since 2006 with the rise of computers and the internet. Prior to this, I had an interest in art but no ability to make it myself.

What was the process moving you from getting a first feel for the tools and software for design to creating images you were pleased with and wanted to share with others?

At first, it was very difficult for me, but slowly I've learned. I was never proud of the first few images I created, but I think have improved since then, and I very much enjoy getting to show off my work with fellow artists.

What were the first images you created and what have you graduated into now as favorites?

My first images included a lot of fairy characters, though I don't think they turned out well, as my first works. There was this old piece with Aiko 3 that I particularly enjoyed. She was a fairy, in a strawberry forest, though I no longer have it, because it's been lost with time.

I see you have already created an image with Poser 14. How did you like it compared to previous versions? What was especially good and what was disappointing?

Poser 14 offers more compatibility with older content, which is a plus for me. The renders look much cleaner now. My only disappointment with it is that it crashes every once in a while, but that's standard for Poser. I'd like for it to have a feature to rename folders as DAZ Studio does.

How would you describe your style? Would you say you have a common theme throughout your work?

My style leans toward being cartoonish with a realistic render from time to time. I wouldn't say I have a set theme for my work…I just do whatever I think looks nice.

 Where do you find your inspiration?

I'm inspired by my collection of content, props and clothing I've amassed over the years, and mashing fitting, or visually pleasing elements together. I'm always excited to make a scene using all of my items.

What is or are your favorite programs to use and why?

Out of all of the programs I've used, Poser is still my favorite for creating my work, with Photoshop to do post editing. I have been using Photoshop for years, and it is the most familiar and accessible image editor for me. Poser is just a very special program to me.

 How has your work changed over time? Where do you think it’s headed?

My work has definitely improved in all aspects compared to what my work was. I would say my posing has certainly improved, as well as my lighting, with more or less the same aesthetic I've always had. I also have better hardware to work with now, which makes my renders look better.

 What are your favorite subjects? What do you really get immersed in?

Fantasy is my favorite, though I do like to try various other themes.

 With the arrival of AI in digital art, what are your thoughts on its use?

I do not like it. I don't believe things created with it can be considered art, because the human aspect of art simply isn't there.

Have you had any kind of life experience that drives your focus in your artwork?

I used to be in a very bad spot in life around the time I started with my creations, and I feel it can be reflected on them with how rough they were. I have strived to better myself since then.

Your images are so exhilarating with bold colors and intriguing themes. If you created art before going digital, was that a common theme?

The art I make is more so for me than anyone. I don't have a clear inspiration for it other than I like my art to be vibrant and colors visually pleasing. I did not really create things prior to the digital era.

Is or are there other artists that influence you, or do you have a mentor that has helped at any point?

Danidh, Mininessie and Raindroptheelf, when Sha was doing Poser, have inspired me and the way I do my art. They are spectacular artists!

What ideas do you have for future projects?

Aside from various holiday themed renders, I have a lot of ideas featuring the "Toon" characters.

What tips do you have for those who are just getting started in 3D artwork?

 Be patient, and do things for yourself, not just for views comments. Art is meant to be personal.