MFA in Illustration from the University of Hartford

So I graduated with my Master in Fine Arts in illustration from the University of Hartford.   My experience with the MFA program was great and I feel it did help me grow tremendously as an artist. I returned from the second summer super pumped to create artwork. Everything I had in my thesis show was made after the second summer. I think as artist, it is natural to have highs and lows and there were a lot of moments where I felt a lot of pressure to come up with something great for the show. I wanted to push myself as far as possible. 

Angel M. Alvarez Illustration- Alphabet Amigos ABC Children's Book Sample Illustrations 

I think, I gained the most from the faculty critiques, conversations with my classmates and listening to the guest speakers. I came to realize that all these great illustrators would say the same thing over and over again. Thumbnail and explore ideas, create color studies, make sure your value structure is spot on and get solid reference. But the most important thing I heard repeatedly was "Make artwork that You LOVE". I think that was a wonderful lesson that will stick with me for a lifetime of making art. 

I'm excited to see what challenges come my way moving forward. 

Angel M. Alvarez- Father and Son Adventure Series Sample Illustrations