Student Spotlight - Hannah Delos Reyes
by Jordan Dill
Today we have an exclusive interview with an emerging artist whose talent and creativity have been making waves within the art community. We have the privilege of speaking with Hannah Delos Reyes (@hannahdelosreyes.art), a student at Brandon University, who graciously granted us a glimpse into her world of artistic expression. As she guided us through the vibrant corridors of Brandon University's art facilities, Hannah shared insights into her journey as an artist and how her education has been instrumental in nurturing her artistic vision. With each piece she creates, Hannah infuses profound meaning drawn from her cultural roots or personal experiences, inviting her audience into a narrative-rich exploration of her work. Unlike some artists who struggle to articulate the essence of their creations, Hannah possesses a unique ability to vividly convey the stories behind her art, offering viewers a deeper understanding of her creative process and the messages she seeks to convey. Below are a few questions we were able to ask her during our interview.
“Does your culture, upbringing , or any other influences around you get reflected into your work?”
Absolutely, my cultural background and upbringing play a significant role in shaping the themes and motifs that are prominent in my artwork. As an artist, I find myself continually drawn to exploring aspects of my heritage through my creative expressions. Growing up immersed in Filipino culture, traditions, and values, I developed a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of stories, symbols, and imagery that define my cultural identity. This profound connection to my roots is evident in many of my art pieces, particularly those that I've produced during my time as a student at Brandon University. Whether it's through vibrant paintings, intricate sculptures, or thought-provoking installations, I strive to infuse elements of Filipino culture into my work, celebrating its beauty, resilience, and diversity. From exploring traditional Filipino folklore and mythology to examining contemporary issues faced by the Filipino diaspora, my art serves as a platform for me to reflect on and engage with the complexities of my cultural heritage. By incorporating Filipino symbols, iconography, and themes into my artistic practice, I aim to not only pay homage to my roots but also to spark meaningful conversations and connections with viewers from diverse backgrounds. Through my art, I hope to bridge the gap between cultures, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the richness of Filipino heritage while also exploring the universal themes of identity, belonging, and the human experience.
“Who are your biggest artistic influences?”
My artistic journey has been profoundly influenced by a diverse array of both historical masters and contemporary visionaries, each leaving an indelible mark on my creative ethos. Drawing inspiration from the timeless masterpieces of Michelangelo and Vincent Van Gogh, I am captivated by their mastery of form, colour, and emotion, which continue to serve as guiding beacons in my artistic exploration. The bold, dynamic portraiture of Kehinde Wiley and the evocative storytelling of Kara Walker resonate deeply with me, inspiring me to infuse my work with narratives that challenge, provoke, and uplift. Additionally, the hauntingly beautiful prints of David Blackwood have left an enduring impression on me, igniting a passion for printmaking and the power of visual storytelling. As I navigate the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art, I find myself continually drawn to the works of these influential artists, integrating elements of their styles, techniques, and philosophies into my own artistic practice. From the classical grandeur of Michelangelo to the bold experimentation of Van Gogh, from the vibrant portraiture of Wiley to the poignant narratives of Walker, and from the haunting prints of Blackwood, each of these artistic luminaries has played a pivotal role in shaping my artistic voice and vision. Through their timeless contributions to the world of art, they have not only expanded my creative horizons but also challenged me to push the boundaries of my own artistic expression, striving to create work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
“Describe your ideal work environment.”
My ideal work environment is one that offers a balance of solitude and inspiration, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the creative process while staying energized and focused. I find that I am most productive when I have the space to work alone, free from distractions, enabling me to concentrate deeply on my artistic endeavours and explore ideas without interruption. Whether it's a cozy studio tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world or a quiet corner of a well-lit room, I thrive in environments that foster a sense of calm and concentration.
Natural light is essential to my creative process, as it not only illuminates my workspace but also infuses it with a sense of warmth and vitality. The soft glow of sunlight streaming through windows not only enhances the colours and textures of my materials but also uplifts my mood and enhances my productivity. Similarly, during nighttime work sessions, I appreciate the presence of bright, adjustable lighting that mimics the effects of natural daylight, allowing me to work comfortably and efficiently even after the sun has set.
In summary, my ideal work environment is characterized by solitude, natural light, and a tranquil atmosphere, providing me with the optimal conditions to unleash my creativity and bring my artistic visions to life.
“Do you have a preferred medium ?”
My artistic versatility encompasses a wide range of mediums, from painting and mixed media to watercolour, ceramics, and printmaking. While I am proficient and comfortable working with each of these mediums, drawing holds a special place in my heart as my primary area of expertise and passion. Through drawing, I am able to fully express my ideas, emotions, and observations with a level of precision and detail that resonates deeply with me.
With a solid foundation in drawing techniques and a wealth of experience honing my skills, I approach each artwork with a meticulous attention to line, form, and composition. Whether I'm creating intricate pencil sketches, expressive charcoal drawings, or vibrant ink illustrations, drawing allows me to explore the nuances of light and shadow, texture, and perspective, breathing life into my subjects and narratives.
While I am open to experimenting and pushing the boundaries of my artistic practice across various mediums, drawing remains my preferred and most proficient mode of expression. It serves as the cornerstone of my creative process, providing me with a versatile and powerful tool to convey my artistic vision and connect with viewers on a profound level.
“How do you handle constructive criticism?”
Constructive criticism is an integral part of my growth and development as an artist, and I approach it with a mindset of openness and receptivity. Rather than viewing criticism as a negative reflection of my work, I see it as an invaluable opportunity for learning and refinement. When receiving constructive feedback, I strive to maintain a sense of humility and objectivity, recognizing that there is always room for improvement and growth.
I approach constructive criticism as a form of mentorship, drawing upon the insights and perspectives of others to gain a deeper understanding of my own artistic practice. I actively seek out feedback from peers, mentors, and instructors, valuing their input as a means of gaining fresh perspectives and identifying areas where I can enhance my skills, concepts, and research.
Instead of taking criticism personally, I view it as a catalyst for self-reflection and self-improvement. I carefully consider the feedback I receive, weighing its validity and relevance to my artistic goals and aspirations. From there, I channel that feedback into actionable steps for improvement, whether it involves refining my technical skills, revisiting my conceptual approach, or conducting further research to deepen my understanding of a subject.
“Do you have a favourite piece of your work and why is it your favourite?”
While I don't necessarily have a single favourite piece among my body of work, there is one particular artwork that holds a special significance in my artistic journey. Titled "Metamorphosis," this oil painting marked a pivotal moment in my career as an artist when I received my first major commission in 2022.
"Metamorphosis" not only represents a significant milestone in terms of professional recognition and validation but also holds a deeper personal resonance for me. Through this painting, I had the opportunity to explore themes of transformation, growth, and self-discovery, mirroring my own journey as an artist navigating the ever-changing landscape of the art world.
Beyond its thematic depth, "Metamorphosis" served as a catalyst for expanding my artistic horizons and establishing myself within the broader art community. The success and visibility garnered from this commission opened doors to additional opportunities, allowing me to connect with new clients, showcase my work in prominent exhibitions, and further establish my presence within the art world.
Moreover, "Metamorphosis" embodies the essence of my artistic style and vision, encapsulating the elements of storytelling, symbolism, and emotional resonance that define my creative voice. Its creation not only solidified my identity as an artist but also provided a platform for me to share my unique perspective and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Overall, while I cherish each of my artworks for their individual significance and contributions to my artistic journey, "Metamorphosis" holds a special place in my heart as a symbol of growth, opportunity, and the transformative power of art.
“What is your favourite time of day to create?”
My favourite time of day to create varies depending on the setting and circumstances. When I'm working on a drawing or painting at home, I find that I am most inspired and productive when I start right away in the morning, as soon as the sun is up. There's something about the freshness of the morning light and the sense of quietude that accompanies the early hours of the day, which invigorates my creativity and sets a positive tone for my artistic endeavours. Beginning my creative process in the morning allows me to establish a focused mindset and dedicate uninterrupted time to fully immerse myself in my work, exploring ideas and bringing my artistic vision to life with clarity and purpose.
On the other hand, when I'm working in the art studios at school, my preferred time to create shifts to the nighttime. The evening hours offer a different atmosphere and energy, characterized by a sense of tranquility and solitude that lends itself well to deep, concentrated work. With fewer distractions and a sense of quietude permeating the studio space, I find that I am able to enter a state of flow more easily, allowing my creativity to flourish and my ideas to take shape with greater freedom and spontaneity. Working at night in the art studios provides me with a sense of creative liberation, enabling me to explore new techniques, experiment with different mediums, and push the boundaries of my artistic practice in ways that are both exciting and rewarding.
In summary, whether it's the early morning light at home or the peaceful ambiance of the nighttime in the art studios at school, I embrace the unique opportunities and creative energies that each time of day offers, adapting my creative process to suit the environment and maximize my artistic potential.
“What challenges do you think artists face today?”
I could go on for hours about this:
Financial Struggles: Many artists face financial instability due to the unpredictable nature of the art market, limited access to funding and resources, and the expectation to produce work without guaranteed income.
Exposure and Recognition: With the vast array of artists and artworks available online and in galleries, it can be challenging for emerging artists to stand out and gain recognition for their work, making it difficult to attract the right audience and establish a strong artistic presence.
Balancing Artistic Vision with Commercial Demands: Artists often grapple with the tension between staying true to their artistic vision and creating work that appeals to commercial tastes and trends, especially when seeking opportunities for exhibition, representation, or sales.
Access to Resources and Opportunities: Limited access to affordable studio space, art supplies, mentorship, and professional development opportunities can hinder artists' ability to fully explore their creative potential and navigate the art world.
Navigating the Digital Landscape: While the internet has provided artists with unprecedented opportunities to showcase their work and connect with audiences globally, it has also created new challenges, such as managing online presence, combating plagiarism and copyright infringement, and navigating the complexities of online sales and marketing.
Social and Political Challenges: Artists often grapple with addressing social and political issues in their work, navigating censorship, criticism, and backlash, while also striving to create meaningful and impactful art that resonates with diverse audiences.
Mental Health and Well-being: The solitary nature of artistic practice, coupled with the pressures of self-promotion, rejection, and financial insecurity, can take a toll on artists' mental health and well-being, leading to burnout, anxiety, and depression.
Ultimately, it is all about finding the right people, whether it’s your audience, support, or resources. People are what factor into all of the above.
“Do you have any upcoming projects or collaborations you are looking forward to?”
As a full-time student nearing graduation and balancing multiple part-time jobs, my schedule is currently quite demanding. However, I am excited about a few upcoming projects and potential collaborations that I have in the pipeline.
While these projects are still in the planning stages, I am eager to dive into them once I have more time and bandwidth available after completing my studies and managing my part-time commitments. Despite the challenges of juggling multiple responsibilities, I am committed to pursuing my passion for art and embracing opportunities for growth, collaboration, and creative expression in the months ahead.