Cyndi Lareau

Hometown:

Detroit and Washington DC

Statement:

About the artist:
My name is Cyndi Lareau. I have a BFA in Illustration from Kendall College of Art and Design. When I am not drawing, I like to hang out with my friends or spend time with my boyfriend, Christopher. I enjoy going on road trips, sitting at home with my family and my dogs (who I draw A LOT). I can sometimes be found at a karaoke bar with my sister and cousins. My lucky number is 314 and I am never without my ipod.


What is a CyndiColor?
CyndiColor is the name of my illustration company. The name stems from a nickname my professor, Jon McDonald, used to describe my unique use of color. When I would talk to him about an idea I had for a project, he would tell me, "Don't do it normal, do it in "CyndiColor." I tend to use colors most people wouldn't expect in ordinary objects and people.


Why did you start CyndiColor?
CyndiColor is my opportunity to do what I love for a career. I love to draw and I am willing to draw for anyone who wants me to draw for them.


How do you choose colors?
It's hard to explain, but I use the colors I see in the person.


What art supplies do you use?
I draw with Prismacolor Pencils on Photogray Crescent Board #61019. I also use a Prismacolor Sharpener, Quiller Color Wheel, Micron markers, Sharpie markers, a Logan Mat Cutter, Krylon Crystal Clear Acrylic Spray, and a Sony Cyber Shot Digital Camera.


What is your favorite color?
My personal favorite color is the brightest Pink you can find, but when it comes to drawing, my favorite color is "True Blue."


What is your least favorite color?
Orange. No reason, I have just never been a fan.


Where do you draw?
I have an old oak table that I wouldn't trade for even the fanciest drawing desk. It's strong enough to hold my weight and doesn't shake when I draw. Over my desk I is a wall of photo references from drawings I have done and some I'd like to do. I like to study a photo for a while before I draw, because the more familiar you are with an object, the easier it is to draw. My wall also has thank you notes from clients, inspiring words and photos of my loved ones.


Who are your artistic heroes?
Illustrators like Jon McDonald, Mercer Mayer and Dr. Seuss have had a lasting impression on me, but my hero is my high school art teacher, Mr. Jeremy Rheault. He taught me how to draw in less than one year and forever impacted my life. I would not be a KCAD graduate or have pride in my work without Mr. Rheault. I have had his picture and words of wisdom hanging over my desk since 1999.


What elements do you need to create a CyndiColor?
A good photo reference is very important. A good photo makes a great drawing. Other than the right supplies, and my desk, I really need my ipod. I draw best when I am listening to my music collection. I have found that listening to music really helps me get into a drawing. (My family will tell you I sing along while I draw too!)


Which is your favorite CyndiColor thus far?
It's tough because I like all of them, but I think "Comfy" is my favorite.


Is it hard to let go of your artwork?
It was at first, but once I got a good digital camera I was able to take detailed photos for my portfolio. Now I can look at anything I have ever drawn whenever I want.


How long have you wanted to be an artist?
All of my life. My mom has a book from preschool, where it says "When I grow up I want to be an artist."


What are your hopes for CyndiColor?
I want to spend the rest of my life drawing. I hope to have a full line of greeting cards for every holiday and every occasion.

Background:

I tend to draw in colors you wouldn't expect.

I like to have fun with my drawings

I use Prismacolor Color Pencils.

I draw every inch with my hand
(nothing here is computer generated)

I draw on Photo gray Crescent board #61019.

I hate the color orange,
but I will use it when I need to.

If I could only use one pencil for the rest of my life
it would be "True Blue."

I draw best with music,
I draw even better with headphones .

I draw on an old oak table that is strong enough
to hold my weight and covered in marker and paint.

I take A LOT of pictures because I'm always looking for the next great CyndiColor!

I am happy to draw for anyone who wants me