Reader of the Week: Lisa Romero
Self-starting San Francisco gal knows how to work it
By Molly Lynch
Published: November 3rd, 2008 | 4:13pm
For the past several years, Lisa Romero has built a thriving career as a freelance illustrator. Drawing influence from elementary school art projects and bluegrass music, the quirky 33-year-old VZ reader and momma is living proof that every day is never a dull one.
What is the inspiration behind your artwork?
Old things. Eighties rock. John Hughes movies. That feeling you got in grade school sitting in the library and inhaling old books and pencil shavings and realizing there were stories in all those books on the shelf and you could read whichever one you chose. Dancing wholeheartedly in your bedroom with your earphones on, the music turned way up, and not caring who sees you because you're lost in the moment. Second grade art projects that made something and of nothing. Bluegrass music that wakes you up early on a beautiful Saturday morning and there's nothing spread out in front of you but possibilities.
Do you remember the first piece of art you did that you were proud of?
In eighth grade, I drew this scary jack-in-the-box in pencil and remember being really proud of it. The shading was really excellent — in eighth grade it was all about the shading.
What’s San Francisco’s best-kept secret?
Paxton Gate is probably the best store in the city, but you have to like that sort of thing. Dead things and shrubs are not for everyone.
Are you a full-time artist?
Yes! I had day jobs before having the kid, but now it's just me and her at home working with the paints around. Luckily, I have a wonderful partner who encourages me to stay home and concentrate on being a mommy and an illustrator.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Painting a ton and chasing the kid around. Hopefully in an old house with a lot of windows and trees, and a nice place for my coffeemaker.
Issue #31
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