“In a sense, I was always an illustrator at heart, at least since I was old enough to hold a pencil,” says Myriam Waren. “Drawing has always been a part of me since childhood; I just continued on that path into adulthood.”
The Montreal artist presents themes of natural sciences, technology, mythology and contemporary social issues through a surrealist lens. Her rich illustrations, commissioned by, among others The New York Times, Barron’s, Quanta, and more: invite viewers into enigmatic, introspective worlds of wonder.
Wares emphasizes dramatic lighting, complementary colors and the power of scale in dynamic scenes that radiate warmth. She draws on her background in visual arts and an interest in art history to create narrative scenes with classical sculptures, emotional figures and inviting landscapes.
“The language of symbols and visual metaphors feels most natural to me when it’s time to express myself,” the artist tells Colossal. “I love playing with meanings and coming up with different ways to visually represent an idea.”
Wares enjoys the constant challenge of balancing numerous projects with personal creative work, which evolves over time and informs how she approaches commissions for clients. “Each new assignment brings its own requirements and aesthetic specificities,” she says. “I never really have time to be bored before a new project comes along.”
View more of Wares’s work website, BehanceAnd Instagram.
