Illustration M I R E L L A

C O S T A

Portfolio 2022-2024

ILLUSTRATION CLASS
Sands of Today and In this graphite pencil illustration, I explore my
inner world. I utilize surreal aspects to delve
Tomorrow
into the intricate nature of time, memory, and
January 19, 2024 my personal identity. By using various pencils, I
Pencil on paper created an hourglass that symbolizes my
thought process and how I function each day.
27.9 x 43.2cm
The top chamber portrays uncertainties
towards the future as the vast desert makes
room for anything to happen. The figure is
digging in hopes of taking control and
escaping, dwelling on what has previously
occurred in life. Dreamlike figures in the
bottom skew the lines between my past and
imagination, relating to my tendency to
combine dreams with memories. Following the
flowing line of sand, my prominent hunger for
knowledge is seen in the baby bird and the
flying book, revealing my dependency on
learning. The consistent will to know all that I
can becomes a driving force for burnout,
stopping me from doing activities I love. This
leads to me relying on the companionship of
my pet, building constant worry that
something bad may happen amidst life's
complexities. Finally, I investigate my doubts
about religion as whenever I ponder it, I come
up with more uncertainties. This piece serves
as a visual personal statement to the way I
think, and it pushes the individuality of one’s
perception of time.
To guide my artistic journey, I find that most
connection and passion is drawn out of me when
using pencil on paper. It is a medium that allows me
to achieve details and fluidity in my works that have
varying styles. I have many realism pieces, but I also
enjoy delving into more cartoonish and playful
elements. My unique viewpoint is defined through my
desire to achieve details, causing me to invest
dedication into my art. Creating stories connected to
my subjects motivates me to spend time on each
stroke. My artwork together has no singular meaning,
however, there is a balance between the portrayal of
real life, and fiction. Each artwork is proof of my
commitment to clean rendering and thought process
in figuring out where to leave empty space. I find
importance in value to produce the most believable
and interesting products. A common trait in my work
stems from my will to create balance in each piece,
working as a distinctive artistic signature for me.

Mirella Costa
Deciding Point
October 19, 2023
Pencil on paper
45cm x 30cm
Mirella Costa
Character Design- Sabrosa
December 12, 2023
Digital Art
460mm x 321mm
 Mirella Costa
Life Drawing
October 2023
Charcoal on Paper
Varying size

Mirella Costa
Figure in Motion
November 11, 2022
pencil on Paper
51cm x 37cm
Mirella Costa
Still Life - Automotive Part
September 14, 2023
Pencil on Paper
29.4cm x 39.4cm
Sketches