One of the most prominent exhibitions in the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo, or better known as C2E2 for short, is what is known as Artists’ Alley.
Through tons of tables and bustling, energetic crowds, are excited artists ready to share a little piece of their souls with the world!
While exploring on Sunday, April 2nd, the third day of the convention, I made it my mission to inquire these artists about the incredible and unique ways their minds work.
ReedPop was extremely generous to approve my press pass for this opportunity, so I am exceedingly thankful.
I got some exceptionally insightful responses and met several wonderful people.
The first artist table I stopped at was Jessenia Jana, who sells art at littlemoonface.com. When I asked her about where she is from and if it has affected her work, she responded, “I’m from Rockford, Illinois, I live in Chicago currently. I’ve been here for about eight years now, and yeah, I definitely think it’s affected my work. I think your environment always affects your work.” Jessenia was a beaming artist with unique work, which I believe you should definitely check out! She was very kind and interesting to talk to, and it was a conversation that I will always remember.
Next, I interviewed Davey Deforne, who was mainly advertising extremely cool and custom pet portraits where he incorporates a client’s pet into whatever theme they would like. His Instagram is located at @the_scaredy_cat. “I’ve gotten more comfortable with worrying less about what people think about my style, so it’s allowed me to get quicker, and it’s allowed me to find my style easier,” was Deforne’s response when asked how his style has changed over the years. This statement resonated with me, and I felt like it is a very important message that needs to be pushed. Deforne was incredibly kind and engaging to speak with, while also being humorous.
Another very unique artist I was able to interview was Babs Webb, whose art is found at babswebb.com. Her art is beautiful and truly magnificent. Her work is inspired by Mexican folklore and artists. When asked if her art has any specific message she would like it to convey, Babs stated, “If you have mental illness, you are not alone.” I believe this to be well-said and important. Also, when asked why Webb creates art, she stated, “because it makes me feel complete.” I believe that it is very important to find that drive in life to keep going and do what makes you happy.
Interestingly, I was able to interview two artists at once who shared a table.
The vibrant and sweet souls of Marika Brousianou and Keith Grassmick are incredible artists who shared both their stories with me. You are able to find Marika’s art at marikabrousianou.com, and you are able to find Keith’s art at keithgrassmick.com.
It caught my attention how captivating their art is but also how kind they are. When asking them why they create art, they both agreed that they do it for themselves and do not need the validation of others because they love to create art, which was also a message that really resonated with me throughout the day.
Marika also mentioned the connection art gives you with other people. They were both charming, funny, and charismatic; I definitely believe that you should check out each of these artists.
All in all, this was a wonderful experience, and I am grateful for all the artists who allowed me to ask them questions. I hope their beautiful words and art may resonate with you. Please take the time to check out these artists, or support your local artists, and definitely check out C2E2 next time they are in town!
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