YG15 Showcase: Armando Veve

Shining the spotlight on this year's Young Guns winners

Young Guns 15, arguably the most prestigious portfolio-based competition for creatives under 30, is going out with a bang! This year's winners were unveiled earlier this month, and it's safe to say that this is one of the most eclectically talented classes in Young Guns history. 

This Thursday is the traditional Young Guns ceremony and party, (you've scored your tickets, right?) and nearly all of this year's winners will be travelling from across the globe, across the country, or across the Williamsburg Bridge to attend. Ahead of the festivities, the One Club for Creativity is highlighting many of the winners you'll be able to meet.

ARMANDO VEVE
Illustrator
Based In: Philadelphia, PA
Originally from: South Burlington, VT
armandoveve.com

SEE ARMANDO'S YG15 PROFILE + WORK

What does winning this award mean to you?

This is definitely a career milestone for me! It is fuel to keep the fire burning. Being recognized as a Young Guns winner contextualizes my work in a greater creative landscape. I am grateful for this opportunity to share my work with a larger audience.

"This is definitely a career milestone for me! It is fuel to keep the fire burning. Being recognized as a Young Guns winner contextualizes my work in a greater creative landscape."

What sorts of challenges have you encountered to get where you are today?

My biggest obstacle is my inner critic. If something doesn’t click, it's difficult for me to let go. When I confront uncertainty, I take time away from what I’m working on — go for a run, walk to a coffee shop, anything. I have also found that working on multiple projects simultaneously helps a lot to avoid overthinking. I am working to find a better balance between my work and personal life. Being more present outside of studio is a new goal for me.

How did you decide what to enter?

I have accumulated a lot of work over the past few years, so it was a challenge to edit down. I selected a range of works that represented my different approaches to projects. 

Can you name any past Young Guns winners who you look up to?

The first name that comes to mind is JooHee Yoon (YG13). We were in the same editorial illustration class at RISD taught by Chris Buzelli. I admire her attention to detail, clear ideas and beautiful execution. She is really able to build a world all of her own.

What keeps you going, creatively speaking?

My surrounding environment, mundane or extraordinary, is a major source of inspiration for my work. Undiscovered ideas, curiosity, and my passion for drawing keep me going. Reading and seeing art, traveling, friends and family keep me energized.

Now that you’re a Young Guns winner, what’s next?

I recently finished a stream of editorial assignments and have transitioned to some long term projects including some private commissions and preparations for upcoming exhibitions. 

Armando and his fellow winners will be honored at the Young Guns 15 Ceremony + Party, taking place on Thursday, November 16 at Highline Stages in Manhattan's Meatpacking District. 

Young Guns 15 is presented in proud partnership with Shutterstock, Levene/Leavitt and MTV.

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