Aiko P. Astra

Headline

Intuitive Creative & Designer Here To Make Your Book Cover and Design Ideas Shine

Previous experience, degrees, and qualifications

I have been painting/sculpting/drawing/creating since before I could walk properly: an entire lifetime of experience! I studied art and art history throughout my school, going on to do a diploma in makeup (beauty, SFX and theatre - like painting on the body). Following this, I studied a Bachelors in Motion Picture Medium majoring in Production Design, whereby I learnt loads about aesthetic, the psychology of imagery (including layout, shapes and color), various programs used to create, and gained an invaluable understanding of composition and form. I worked in the Art Department of the film industry for 3 years, where I was mentored by someone who had studied fine art and was taught awesome practical and artistic techniques. I have been working as an illustrator for the past 3 years, and loving it. Since becoming an illustrator, I have also studied Graphic Design, Book Cover Design, and Book Formatting, and formatted quite a number of children's books, as well as books for adults on health and wellness.

Interests and hobbies

Where do I start? Any and all creative pursuits (art, design, jewelry making, photography, writing, music, dancing and my latest love - pottery). I love health and wellness (physical, mental and spiritual): I am passionate about empowerment and have been uncovering and learning different skills and techniques to empower and grow myself in this experience. I am a meditation/yoga fanatic, as I have really experienced the power that these modalities have had in my own life helping me overcome difficulties. I love nature, am blessed to live in a city where I have access to the mountain as well as the ocean so hiking and beach walks are some of my top ways to unwind. I am training to be a healer and am passionate about spreading the awareness to all that we have the power to heal our lives.

How I'd describe my personality in two sentences

I am a silver linings kind of girl: I am always looking for light and brightness in all things, even when the situation can seem like a murky grey. I'm a survivor, too - I've been to the darkest depths and come back stronger, a warrior. Well this is three, but thirdly, I am a phoenix, rising from the ashes of adversity, with more tales to tell and wisdom to share.

How I'd describe my approach to my work

I allow the work to flow through me, creation flowing freely without the blockages of thought. I find that this is the best way to create pieces that are truly expressive and emotionally provoking. If I sit there and analyze each and every move, the work becomes intellectualized and the result is something that lacks substance.

Why should you choose me for your project

Artistic expression is where I find my Zen zone: it is a form of meditation. Through this, I know that all work that I create will come from the highest part of me and from a space free of thought. I find that when I worry too much about how a piece is going to look, it tends to come out dull and lifeless.

You should know that I put all of me into everything that I do, and I will not stop until I am completely satisfied with the result. Therefore, all the work I put out is of the highest quality, having been intricately crafted with an outpouring of my creative energy. Sometimes, its tiring for me, but know that I have always put my all into all that I do.

I value and appreciate your input, and will do my utmost to make sure that I honor your vision. Making your vision come to life is the highest priority to me.

Cover portfolio

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