Tatyana Alanis is an illustrator and designer from Anaheim, California, now residing in Fort Worth, Texas. Under the name French 75 Studios she creates illustrations inspired by a mix of nostalgia and present day, depicting timeless illustrations of her interpretation of everyday life.
WHAT DID YOU GET IN TROUBLE FOR AS A KID? ANYTHING ADULTS TOLD YOU TO AVOID THAT’S ACTUALLY A BIG PART OF YOUR LIFE NOW?
I would draw all over the walls as a kid, and this would drive my mom insane. Looking back, she is 100% right for being upset, but I did grow up to be an artist, so it's not all for nothing.
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DRAW AS A CHILD? WHY DID THAT LODGE IN YOUR HEAD?
My mom and I would sit and draw our dream houses together. Ever since I was very small I have had an affinity for drawing quiet moments and architecture.
WHERE DO YOU WORK? WHAT’S YOUR WORKSPACE LIKE? ANY OBJECTS YOU’VE HAD FOR A LONG TIME?
I work any and everywhere, I think that's my favorite thing about my job. I have a studio that I spend most of my time in. It's filled with all of my favorite things and some random stuff I've picked up along the way: paintings, books, Davide, my betta fish. My studio is my safe space. I have photos hanging up in my studio of my friends and me in elementary school (we are all still friends now), some of my favorite toys from when I was a child I use as knickknacks now, my favorite storybooks that I use for art direction and inspiration. I'm a pretty nostalgic person and use everything from my life to influence the art that I create.
HOW DOES CREATIVITY RUN IN YOUR FAMILY, EVEN IF IT’S NOT DESIGN-RELATED?
I come from a long family of musicians and artists. I have family members in Earth, Wind, and Fire and The Temptations.
ANY ACTIVITIES, EXERCISES OR STRATEGIES TO PULL YOURSELF OUT OF THE OCCASIONAL ARTISTIC RUT?
Video games and yoga.
