Today we’d like to introduce you to Madelyn Hernandez.
Hi Madelyn, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started out as most artists do. A pencil was put in my hand as a child and I never put it down. Friends throughout my childhood encouraged my creativity and special interest in the world of fae. I ended up going to art college at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta for animation but ended up diving into the world of illustration and selling my Faerie work as prints, mugs, shirts, etc. through social media. Then years later, I opened my website and the faerie frenzie continues! I’m very grateful to have found an audience for the work I love to make.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. My art journey is repeatedly interrupted by the war I have with my body. I have a complicated form of multiple sclerosis described as a hybrid between relapse/remitting and progressing. I’ve lost feeling in both hands, both feet, my torso, my eyesight in one eye, and the use of certain areas of my brain. Some things come back “online” after a few months. And sometimes (like now), I’ve gone a full year with no feeling in my left hand. Staying healthy is an active effort for me. It has to stay on my mind. My advances in my art career won’t matter if I don’t stay on top of prioritizing my health.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I do mostly illustration and character design with a specialization in fantasy art, especially of the faerie genre. I am known for the blatant diversity in my work. I prioritize representing fantasy souls of color and of various sizes and gender/sexual identities. I’m proud that my work reflects the diversity of my friends and peers. I’m proud that people I care about see themselves in my work. My conscience decision to be an artist who doesn’t only draw one type of fairy is what sets me apart in the fantasy genre, a traditionally white avenue of art.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I am a 29-year-old Mexican/Dominican non-binary/gender-fluid bisexual artist. I know that it will resonate with younger Latin and/or queer artists to know that someone like them is thriving in creative work WITHOUT hiding any of my identity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/Madelynhernandez
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/madelynhernandezart
- Other: duendeviafae.com
Image Credits
My headshot is by Garcia’s productions
