Vanesa Arenas-Rubio — or simply known as "RUBIOSCURO" — is a queer freelance graphic designer and illustrator living in the Chicagoland area, with a passion for all things mysterious and thrilling — there is nothing like an intriguing puzzle to keep someone on their toes.
Growing up as a First-Generation Mexican-American student, Nes never believed her career would involve art. At a young age, they peeked into accounting, astronomy, and crime forensics but nothing called out to them. Art, despite not being a fan of it at first, became their voice and soul - thanks to her past mentors and supporters.
They are currently studying graphic design at Elmhurst University but have been working with a few businesses on projects aside. In between commissions and studying, they draw while enjoying an animated show on the side.
"Thank you for taking a look at my work!"
— Nes
Alias Origins
The alias, RUBIOSCURO, was made from two different meanings.
"Rubio" proudly came from my idol and grandfather, Manuél Rubio Avila. He was beloved by his family and friends in the little town of Michoacan, Mexico, and known for his creativity and craftsmanship in his own hands. Though he wasn't able to achieve higher education, he was quite intelligent and was able to fix any problem with what he had. It is one of the qualities I admire about him.
The "-scuro" suffix came from the art term "chiaroscuro". It means "the use of light (chiaro-) and dark/shadows (-scuro) to make a 3D painting". After learning this term in an art history class, I believed it was a fitting word for what they felt about their art.
And that is how my alias was born, with honor and significance.
STATUS
Currently: Studying graphic design at Elmhurst University
AWARDS & ACHIEVEMENTS
[2023] Kachi-kachi Yama for "First Place" at Asian Club of Elmhurst University Art Competition: Mythical Creatures and Folklore
[2024] Participant for Elmhurst University's Honors Study-Abroad Program at Liverpool Hope
[2024-2025] Head Graphics Editor for Elmhurst University's newspaper, The Leader