My name is Eliza Rose Graff, and I am a growing illustrator and artist from Providence, Rhode Island. I initially work in traditional drawing and painting materials such as colored pencils, graphite pencils, water soluble pencils, markers and watercolor paints and in recent years printmaking techniques, specifically trace monotype. I am also accustomed to digital media such as using Procreate on my iPad. However, at the end of the day I prefer traditional drawing and painting to digital for it feels most natural.

 

Animals are my favorite subject to illustrate, pets especially. I have always had a love and a fascination with animals, from fun and sweet dogs, to the quiet and mysterious cat. From majestic horses too beautiful birds. Just like my imagination, my curiosity for animals is limitless. Along with the fact that these creatures have been the inspiration of ancient myths and legends for centuries. For example, unicorns and dragons. Any job that allows me to draw animals all day everyday is the dream job for me.

​

Both animals and art have played a major role in my life. From growing up neurodivergent my love of making art, have always provided me an outlet to express myself and cope with my life challenges. Through riding horses, caring for dogs, and connecting to animals in many special ways, I have found serenity and blessings of happiness. With the wonderful support and encouragement from family and friends, I managed to turn my challenges, along with my art and love of animals into a superpower! A superpower that allowed me to earn a Master's of Fine Arts in Illustrations from Savannah College of Art and Design in 2024 and own my own art business! I could not be more grateful for all these beautiful blessings in my life, especially my art and my animal muses and mentors. I wish to eventually give back to animals/pets to thank them for helping me get through life's challenges all these years. That is why I am making it my mission to one day start a pet and animal portrait business that raises funds and awareness for pets and animals in need. 

​

These days, I work from home with my own rescue pup, Asha, finishing some book illustration projects, and getting my business off the ground. I am excited to start this new adventure of being an entrepreneur. I consider myself  to still be a student since I do not have as much experience in the business realm as I have with my art. The best way to learn though is through the experience of it and to just start. In time with consistency and effort, I know I will get better and better. From what I have heard, the best successors fail the most! I am grateful to have this amazing opportunity that I cannot wait to get started!

​

My commencement speaker for my Savannah College of Art & Design MFA Graduation of 2024, Rob Lowe, two of his quotes that stuck with me, in his words were, "Think Inspiration, not Imitation!" and "Think Collaboration, Not Subordination!"