Interview with Xiera Younce
Xiera Younce is an accomplished illustrator, surface designer, and animator currently completing their Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Illustration. Their artwork features vibrant colors and diverse characters, inviting viewers into imaginative worlds.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? What year are you, what’s your major, etc?
My name is Xiera Younce, and I go by Burnedmilk online. I am a senior at CCAD, majoring in Illustration!
Could you tell us a little about your Botticelli pieces?
Absolutely! My two pieces, “Playtime Pals” and “Purrfect Peaches,” are works featuring my two cats. “Playtime Pals” depicts my cat named Mochi. She has a rainbow caterpillar toy that I bought for her shortly after she was adopted, and it has since become her favorite toy, so I included it in this portrait of her!
“Purrfect Peaches” is of my other cat, Peaches. This portrait shows her as a young kitten, wide-eyed and full of wonder. I chose to create a pattern of peaches in the background as a nod to her name.
My piece “FURBZILLA” features a giant Furby, as large as Godzilla, towering over buildings with cars racing away in panic. It symbolizes the two perspectives people have: those who dislike Furbies may see them as terrifying, while fans might view them as adorable and friendly. The Furby could just want a hug and a friend, or it could be perceived as a monster ready to eat you alive!
Do you have any advice for aspiring illustrators?
Keep an open mind! If people offer critiques or feedback on your work, listen to them. Critique is valuable and can be very helpful for aspiring illustrators. However, this doesn’t mean you have to accept every critique or piece of feedback as fact. Art is subjective, so it’s essential to consider others’ opinions while also staying true to your own artistic vision.
What is your reason for being at CCAD?
I have always had a strong desire to learn as much as possible about art and how to enhance my skills. CCAD provides the perfect opportunity for this. Furthermore, I aim to expand my horizons and prepare for a professional career in art with a bachelor’s degree under my belt.
What do you want your future career to be after CCAD?
My dream is to become a freelance illustrator, collaborating with various clients and companies on a range of projects.
What/who are some of your biggest inspirations?
I have always been inspired by cartoons, movies, and video games. The main reason I started drawing was the influence of the cartoons I watched while growing up. I wanted to create my own stories through art, just like the ones I saw on TV. Recently, my interests have shifted more towards animals. I aim to create stories for those who don’t have one or to give them a voice through my work.
Who are your biggest supporters through your art journey?
Definitely my family, fiancé, and friends! My family has encouraged and supported me to reach this point, and my family, fiancé, and friends have kept me motivated throughout this journey.
Would you submit to Botticelli again?
Of course! I try my best to submit my work every semester. I love having my work be a part of Botticelli.
What gets you through a day at CCAD?
My friends and a sweet treat! Lunch is definitely the highlight of my day because I get to chat with my besties while enjoying a much-needed meal. My go-to drink is always an iced chai!
What are some other platforms where people can see your work?
You can check me out on Instagram: burned.milk, Cara: burnedmilk, and Tumblr: burnedmi1k! I am definitely the most active on Instagram, so keep an eye out for content there! I try my best to post every Friday.
