Sara Otero used to draw cartoon characters in the margins of her school notebooks and sketchpads. Last month, her art arrived in the mailboxes of thousands of alumni and friends of the College of Arts and Sciences.
Otero is a USC senior studying studio art with a concentration in graphic design and illustration. She also works part-time as a student designer for the College of Arts and Sciences’ communications team. When she shared a drawing she had made of the USC mascot, Cocky, enjoying a snowy day on the Horseshoe, we asked her to create a final version for the college’s annual holiday card.
The drawing has a nostalgic feel for anyone who has seen the USC Horseshoe in the snow. It also shows off Otero’s knack for illustration, which she plans to put to use in a career making graphic novels. We asked Otero to give us a glimpse into her experience as an art student at USC.
When did you get your start with design and illustration? How did you decide that illustrating graphic novels would be your dream?
My interest in illustration began when I started to learn how to draw my favorite characters from stories and shows I watched. From then on, I drew my own characters and created stories for them, leading me to want to improve my art abilities every single day. I would draw constantly even in class when there was downtime.
During one class in freshman year of high school I knew I would have to choose a career path, and I could think of no better path than being a graphic novelist, allowing me to combine my passion of storytelling and art.
What attracted you to USC and its design program? How have your experiences in this program helped you grow as an artist?
One thing that drew me in to USC the most was that there were alumni who worked for Marvel as illustrators for their comics. I knew that meant something special was going on in their arts department, and I was right.
The art professors in the graphic design program push us to be the best that we can be, and it's incredible to see how my art has improved in the past four years. In my junior year, I joined a student-run design studio that brought 10 minds together to make designs for paying clients. This opportunity allowed me to strengthen my skills in client work and teamwork when tackling a project. Having a group of students who were all dedicated to making the best final product possible encouraged me to challenge myself in ways I hadn't before.
How have faculty in the design program helped you develop your talent and your vision for your future career?
I've been taught to have confidence in my own abilities and how to push myself to create the best possible outcome. The faculty are entirely devoted to creating the next generation of free thinkers and trend setters, so they are interested in learning about the students as people rather than projects. They want to know who we are and what we value, and the answers to those questions can lead us to a successful and meaningful career in design or illustration.
What inspired your drawing for the holiday card?
I wanted the holiday card to represent what it's like to be a USC student during the winter season, so I included some parts of my experience and some that others have shared.
My first year at USC, it snowed. Everyone was super excited and went out to play. So, while South Carolina doesn't always have a white Christmas, I included snow as a reminder of that memory.
I adore our mascot, and I think he is the best mascot for any university. He has so much personality and joy that exudes from him, so it seems only fitting to make him a centerpiece of a joyous season.
My commute to classes often includes a stroll through the Horsehoe with a cup of coffee to warm my cold hands, so of course I gave Cocky his own cup of coffee to warm his feathers.
Many other “Easter eggs,” like popular USC structures, are included to tie the card together, and I am very proud to know others are able to enjoy the final product!