GDEX 2019
Another year, another GDEX! This year is especially exciting for AfroDuck Studios as we are bringing two of our artists, Yayira Diaz and Ellen Bartlett, who have never been to the Columbus Game Development Expo before.
Ellen, who has been illustrating professionally for about a year, joined AfroDuck Studios and is now Lead Background Illustrator. She is very excited to be heading to GDEX and is looking forward to meeting different artists.
“I look forward to the overall experience and what I can learn from so many others in the community,” our background artist responds, “I'll be learning from different industries and selling my own pieces as well.”
Yayira, our Lead Character Designer is also ecstatic about going to GDEX. She responds:
“SO excited! I’m looking forward to the whole experience. Some of the things that hold a very high interest for me are the sessions and getting to meet some of my idols in the Artist Alley and in other game studios!”
When asked about their art, Yayira says, it’s like “soul food” to her. “I’ve been passionate about creating art for myself and others since I could hold a pencil or move a mouse. I know it’s something that God has wired me for and even though life sometimes gets in the way, I love being able to come back to the world of art and music to find myself again,” she responds.
As for Ellie, she says she’s been drawing for as long as she can remember. “I think it is a larger part of me than I can comprehend.” She’s been trying to get out of her comfort zone by illustrating different environments—backgrounds.
“For a long time I have avoided creating backgrounds, so I finally put my foot down and made myself learn to draw backgrounds,” she explains.
Both Yayira and Ellen will be showcasing and selling their works at GDEX in the Artist Alley from October 11th-13th.
Aside from assisting them, the remainder of the AfroDuck Studio team will be participating in the convention learning from professional and independent developers, connecting with different teams in the industry and enjoying the three days of fun and activities on the show floor. We look forward to this weekend!
