Every form of art has always been conceptualized from an inspiration. Be it writing, painting, or playing a melody, there’s a spark of motivation behind any kinds of art. These days, it is easy to feel so inspired by just looking at the brilliant illustrations by Ehrran Montoya. 

With his sophisticated flair for both fashion and arts, Ehrran has been popularly commissioned by art aficionados, artists, design enthusiasts and fashion fans to create one-of-a-kind illustrations for them. Be it for interiors or simply a touch of style and class in their spaces, Ehrran couldn’t be more grateful that his form of art has been chosen by his clientele to be part of their aesthetic.

The fashion illustrator recalled that he has always loved drawing for as long as he can remember.

“I started to draw when I was 3 years old. I was introduced to Disney movies in my early childhood and I remember, I would draw the Disney characters, I would re-design their costumes with my own versions, and then I would post my drawings on our walls,” Ehrran shared.

“My parents have always been supportive with my love for the arts. They would buy me different art materials, which really helped me a lot to master different mediums at an early age.”

The artist narrated how he always wanted to be an animator back in the day. “But as I grew up, I started to learn diversities in arts, fashion, and different genres and fields that have made me realize that I could be anything that I want to be, especially because of all the influences from different artists and designers I’ve come to know and love,” he said.

“I was not fully knowledgeable yet of the various designers during my elementary days. This was because my dad was very particular about how I’d act, and he’s not okay with me being gay,” he said.

Revolutionary pop artist Lady Gaga, known for her chart-topping songs, music performances and outlandish fashion statements, played a big role in the young Montoya’s life. 

“In high school, I discovered Lady Gaga. I would always search and read anything about her, especially her extravagant fashion looks. That’s how I learned about the fashion industry, and all these different fashion designers from around the world.”

It was in 2010 when he truly ackowledged his innate desire to become a fashion illustrator and a fashion designer someday. “There was a time when I drew the Miss Universe 2010 candidates on our blackboard, and this parade of swimwear illustrations. That was the point when I realized that I truly wanted to become a fashion designer and fashion illustrator.”

Finding His Path

The young artist decided to take Fine Arts in college.

“Since I was not fully open about me being gay to my father, I did not pursue a fashion course which I never regret,” Montoya said. “I was still able to associate myself with the people in the fashion industry back in college. I remember the times when I would sometimes miss  some classes I deemed not so necessary just to attend fashion events. I would even collaborate with different people from the fashion industry. My goal was just to be part of the fashion scene and create art that I can put in my portfolio.”

The young Ehrran even took it upon himself to learn from fashion photographers. “I used to assist celebrity fashion photographer Miguel Alomajan, wherein I would hustle as his side photographer in all his fashion shoots. I learned a lot from that experience especially on how the fashion industry works.”

The artist became more confident about his path by the time he finished his college degree. “When I graduated college, I had everything I needed to pursue my dreams. That’s when I applied as associate designer for a local fashion house, wherein I worked for three and a half years. I eventually got promoted to be the creative director for the fashion atelier. That had been the biggest break of my life, and I had learned a lot.”
It eventually led Ehrran to truly discover his own path. “Right now, I am continuously pursuing my dreams as a fashion illustrator, because I have learned that this is exactly what I want to do.”

Fashion and Art Influences

Aside from Lady Gaga, Ehrran has embraced various influences in art and fashion that have further shaped his vision in his own art and his personal sense of fashion.

“When it comes to personal style, we’re all influenced in different ways. As for me, I have always admired the classic, vintage creations of Christian Dior. I also love the over-the-top and out-of-this-world pieces of Alexander McQueen. When it comes to art, I love the artistry of Karl Lagerfeld, the visions of Vogue fashion editor Grace Coddington and illustrations made by David Dowton,” he said.

These fashion visionaries have molded Montoya’s own take in his chosen art.

“As a fashion illustrator, I would describe my style as contemporary-modern. It is more globally influenced, culturally diverse, and technologically advanced, yet traditional. My visuals are usually inspired by fashion editorials because I love to create a story behind every illustration,” he said.

“Since I focus more on the fashion imagery, my clients are usually from the fashion industry too. Fashion and art collectors are also my clientele, and some who just simply adore my art style.”
Montoya made several wall murals for celebrity hairstylist Lourd Ramos for all of his salons in the metro. ” For my art for Creations By Lourd Ramos Salon, they’re all inspired by fashion visuals and empowerment for all individuals.”
“When I do commissioned pieces that are not particularly related to fashion, I usually apply my own strokes and styles. I want to make it more stylized and modern, instead of copying the exact reference given to me by the client. I don’t find it creative to just copy the exact image.”

Creativity During Challenging Times

Like everyone else, Ehrran has been coping amidst the imposed local lockdowns due to the global pandemic. The artist has sure found creative ways to grow his craft and business, further catering to his loyal clientele, and even sharing his knowledge to people who want to learn fashion illustration.

“I have been doing virtual classes on Fashion Illustration, in partnership with LR Virtual Learning Series – Limited Engagement. I mentor students on how to do the basic fashion anatomy, rendering of different skin tones, rendering of textiles and how to illustrate fashion portraits.”

“Of course, I still do commissioned artworks which are keeping me sane right now. I am still thankful that despite all that’s happening, I still have my skills to help me get through these dark times,” he said.

The fashion illustrator wants to inspire the younger generation of fashion creatives by encouraging them to embrace their art even more even if it is challenging.

“My advice to aspiring style visionaries is to be more creative. Use their skills as much as they can, because they have more time to do and explore their art more. That will eventually benefit them as creative individuals,” he said.

“We are tested during these trying times yet we are still here. Our economy is getting weaker every day so build a small business, purchase all the stuff you need, and find ways to learn how to grow profits from what you are doing. That is how we can all help our economy to rise above the trials again,” he added.

“Trust your talent and conquer the world! Yes, even there’s a pandemic!” he concluded.

*****************

This feature on fashion illustrator Ehrran Montoya is part of Stylish Magazine’s first ever special edition dubbed as The Style Visionary Issue, with New York-based fashion designer Richie Rich as the cover star. To read the cover story, head on to Stylish Magazine’s Cover Story, or simply click here. To virtually flip the pages of this Stylish Magazine’s issue, click here.

To enroll in Ehrran Montoya’s virtual classes on Fashion Illustration,  you may send your email inquiries to [email protected].