Meet Samantha Lora | Graphic Designer & Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Samantha Lora and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Samantha, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
“If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.” – Fred DeVito

I stumbled upon this quote at the beginning stages of my journey and now keep on sticky note by my mirror as a daily mantra. It shifted my perspective on how I view “challenge” and “change”. Challenge to me often meant to struggle. An obstacle I couldn’t get over. Change, in itself, can be scary at first, especially when it requires you do something you’ve never done, let go of certain habits, and become someone you’ve never been.

However, I now see a challenge as an opportunity to grow. The challenge of learning a new skill, starting a new gym routine, or the highs and lows of pursing something you’re passionate about can be exciting and each have it’s own rewards. I know I will come out the other side of it with newfound knowledge and a stronger person. Now, I look forward to a challenge and take it head on as a stepping stone toward the person I aspire to be.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a Graphic Designer & Artist. Graphic design gives me structure while Art gives me the freedom to express myself. I combine the two to create digital artwork inspired by space, nostalgia, and music. The majority of my work is created using my iPad, which has all the necessary tools and offers the convenience of creation from any location, at any time. I use programs like procreate, photoshop, illustrator, and FL Studios to create unique pieces.

For me, art serves as an outlet of connecting with others while deepening my own self-awareness. Each piece I create brings me closer to understanding myself and my purpose.

My passion for art and design started at a young age. I gravitated towards platforms like Twitch and Tumblr to design themes and gifs. This led me to pursue an education in Graphic Design, graduating in 2020. Initially, in my career, I focused on creating logos, websites, and layouts. However, I eventually transitioned away from corporate design to develop my personal brand and style.

The biggest challenge for me has actually been myself. My internal struggles and self limiting beliefs. To get to where I am now, I had to shift my mindset to become my biggest cheerleader. I owe a special thanks to the Mile62 Media team, for giving me the opportunity to what I consider to be my first real gig as a graphic designer in 2021. They made me feel like a valued part of a team during a transitional time in my life. They not only taught me the ropes of the industry but also challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, introducing me to meditation and mental toughness. Their belief in me was pivotal to my growth. I have instilled these practices into my everyday life to navigate the mental obstacles.

A big turning point for me was in 2021 when I was introduced to NFTs. I went to Miami Art Basel in December, minted my first piece “Cosmic Brownie”, and it sold that same night. I had a bad habit of doubting my work and skills. So having someone interested enough to wanna buy it, has broadened my perspective on what’s possible with my art.

Since then, I have gone full force to practice my craft. I spent the following year building my skills and establishing a community within the NFT space. I illustrated my first full NFT collection “Into The Cosmos”. These artworks draw inspiration from my journey into the unknown, influenced by meditation, everyday life, and nostalgia.

This year, I shifted my focus to pursing my goal of starting my own business. I recently launched my Etsy shop, where I sell stickers of my designs, as well as self-screen-printed t-shirts. I hope to gradually expand the collection to include various products featuring my designs.

Additionally, I’m laying the foundation for a project called “Artistic, Not Personal,” a community designed for individuals navigating the complexities of love and heartbreak. I channel my personal experiences into music, art, TV shows, and other forms of content to convey emotions and connect with those who can relate.

My motto is “Create your own galaxy.” I am on a mission to build a multifaceted creative ecosystem that utilizes my talents to connect with others who share similar interests. “Creating your own galaxy” signifies resourcefulness, turning nothing into something, and continuously pushing the limits to reshape your reality.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would give them a true Floridian adventure. First, we would check Disney and Universal off the list. Then, I’d show them around my hometown. That means hitting up my favorite sunset spots, exploring the downtown area, and treating them to a must try local restaurant. Plus, trying out a new spot for a shared first experience.

Of course, we’re hitting up the springs for kayaking, clocking in at the beach, and the museum. We’ll probably take a drive down Miami for a quick 2 day trip. Visiting Wynwood for the art scene, pop ups, beaches, and more food.

We’ll end off with a spontaneous drive to another city (preferably with Florida wildlife) and explore the area together to see what hidden gems we find.

My “I know a spot” moment: One thing I recently started to appreciate about Florida is the suburbs. Specifically when they’re under construction. It’s honestly kind of beautiful because when the workers are gone, it’s peaceful and feels like being on a different planet. It’s become my new favorite place to escape and watch the sunset. I think everyone should try it at least once. So I would take them there.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to thank my friends, family, and the cool people on the internet I’ve connected with for their support and motivation. They’ve been my guiding light, helping me overcome my overthinking and keeping my passion alive by giving me the little nudges I need to move forward.

Also a tweet by Mac Miller that says “Be you. You’ll be fine.”

Website: artbysammarie.etsy.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/artbysammarie

Twitter: https://twitter.com/artbysammarie

Other: https://instagram.com/acediam https://instagram.com/artisticrevengeco