Interview: Abrian Curington
In this interview series, I want to showcase artists that are blending their interests in art, science, and the ocean. Abrian Curington is an illustrator, visual storyteller, cartographer, and science communicator. She has participated in the Artist-at-Sea program from the Schmidt Ocean Institute.
Tell us a little bit about yourself, your name and what do you do?
I’m Illustrator and Cartographer, Abrian Curington, dedicated to producing graphic novels and fantastical maps that ignite curiosity and champion exploration. I often blend fantasy and reality, to create nerdy, wondrous works.
Have you always been artistic? Why or why not?
I’ve always been of the opinion that everyone is creative in different ways. I was always dreaming up worlds, making things, solving puzzles, and observing how the world works.
What materials do you use to create your artwork? Is there a certain material you prefer?
I use different materials, depending on the feeling I need to convey for the image. Most often, I end up drawing in ink and coloring digitally. Sometimes I work in ink and watercolor, which is always really fun, but time-consuming to fix if I make a mistake, or want to change my mind on a color!
Was there someone or something that impacted your decision in creating artwork centered around/about science?
I’ve always been a nerd, so I love taking notes and making notes on illustrations of what I’ve observed or designed. Science is just one of the many fields that I am fascinated by!
Which is your favorite animal and why?
That’s a hard question since different animals are amazing for different reasons! I do enjoy pangolins, because of the cool shape of their plates, and their polite way of standing.
Which has been the most fun animal/creature you have sketched?
All creatures are fun to sketch! Figuring out what shapes make up the creature and how they interact with each other. I’m not sure I can pick just one!
How did your interest in deep-sea/ocean/cartography begin and where do you see it going in the future?
I grew up loving the mysteries of deep-sea and space, checking out library books, and watching programs on the subjects. The cartography portion came in from reading fantasy and geography books, and loving how the worlds were visualized, both real and imagined. In the future, I hope to continue going on adventures on land and sea and sharing what I’ve learned with others.
What is something weird or funny you have encountered?
We’ve seen some pretty strange deep-sea creatures through the lens of remote-operated vehicles, but the strangest thing I’ve personally encountered was what looked like a dried mantis shrimp on a beach in Honolulu. I’ve encountered other strange things in the woods at home for sure, but usually not a creature I couldn’t identify by looking it up!
What advice/tips would you give people of all ages interested in going into an art career that also encompasses science and ocean conservation?
Try out all the things you’re interested in, even if you’re not sure where that path will lead. Know that the job that brings you money can work alongside jobs that bring you fun, even if they’re not the same. Do the things that bring you true joy!
If you were a deep-sea creature, what would you be and why?
Ghost Sharks (Chimera) are pretty cool little fish that seem like someone’s school assignment to design a spooky creature! I’d also love to be a deep-sea ray.
