Story Behind the Artist ~ Gaby

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This article was compiled by Michelle G. Brown

Michelle first came across Gaby’s work at the Designer Showcase at the Craft & Hobbies Associates Winter Show in 2014. Michelle was drawn to the combination of the illustrations and industrial in Gaby’s work and wanted to learn more about the artist behind the Showcase.

Hi! I’m Gaby, illustrator, artist and pattern designer. I started Gaby&Co in September 2012 when I began commuting on the Metrolink Trains for the first time. I traveled to and from Downtown L.A. Monday-Friday to my graphic design job. I enjoyed my 1- hour commute because I was able to see many urban industrial sites. I already photographed urban buildings and colorful distressed metals, and in September I started to draw them as well. I began posting weekly illustrations on my website, which have now turned into daily sketches of street objects I come across while I travel.

I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in graphic design and a minor in photography in 2004. I always enjoyed taking art classes of all mediums while in college and continued to take night art classes after graduation. I enjoyed working as a full time graphic designer during the day and then working on hands-on art at night. In the evenings I’ve taken photography classes, painting, ceramics, jewelry making/soldering, jewelry enameling, DIY design/collage, children’s books illustration, silk screening and a couple more classes I might be forgetting about.

In September 2012 I started to illustrate, urban buildings specifically because I was so attracted to them. That same month I created my website gabyandco.com as part of my commitment to post weekly illustrations. Early 2013 I began creating products with my illustrations and decided to attend my first DIY event, Patchwork Craft Show in Long Beach, CA.

To help me prepare, my husband helped me silkscreen my illustrations on cotton fabric by using our homemade silk screen station. My mom, who is a wedding dress designer, taught me how to sew zip pouches and helped me sew a few for the show. I was so proud of the first run of Gaby&Co zip pouches!

I also printed my first zine of illustrated buildings. I had a fun time at Patchwork and sold some of items, which meant the world to me. It made me realize that people are interested in my products.

Ever since Patchwork I have silk screened and sewed more products and have been lucky to be a part of other shows like Unique LA, the CHA Show, LA Zine Fest and look forward to participate in more.