Loreto Vila is an Artist and marine biologist. Inked by the Ocean was inspired by my love for the Ocean, the same passion that led me to study marine biology and explore the ocean for years. When the COVID-19 pandemic forced me to stop exploring, I turned to my other great passion: Art.
Through my art, I hope to convey the beauty and diversity of the ocean. My illustrations and tattoo designs are characterized by their timeless beauty, attention to detail, and overall harmony. Sometimes I draw geometric shapes in my designs to add movement and harmony, because in the Ocean everything is constantly moving and changing.
As a biologist and diver, I am able to capture the features of each species with accuracy and detail, which gives my designs a higher level of quality. I have also experienced the feeling of peace, happiness, and connection to the Ocean that comes with diving. I always strive to capture this feeling in my illustrations, and I hope that it will also evoke that feeling in you when you see them.
What is your favorite shark, and why?
My favorite shark is the zebra shark. From an artistic point of view, I think they are incredibly elegant and I love their long tail and their leopard-like spots. I also love how different the pups and adults are! I bet that the first scientist studying them would think they were totally different species !
What inspired you to start creating shark art?
My art is linked to my background in Marine Biology and actively working on sea turtle’s conservation projects as well as guiding tourists on dives with sharks. During these times I discovered that my favorite part of the job was educating the public and spreading my love for the Ocean. I also realized that many people were still scared of sharks and decided to do my best to change that.
How has your approach to shark art changed over the years?
It started mainly as a hobby during my free time and when the COVID-19 pandemic forced me to stop working and diving, I started drawing daily. I created my Instagram page and soon realized that I could use my art to make a change. I then decided to collaborate with organizations such as The Shark Trust and The Great Whale Conservancy and participate in the Stop Finning campaign. These collaborations give me a deep sense of fulfillment !
What has been your favorite shark to draw/paint?
I loved drawing a big A3 size Dusky shark for The Shark Trust. It was the first time I had drawn a shark this big and I also wanted it to be absolutely perfect, so it felt like a challenge and I worked on it for days. By the time I finished it I was amazed by the result which totally boosted my self-worth. I donated the original piece, which has been displayed in different art galleries and finally sold to help fund The Shark Trust, which I am deeply proud of.
Why do you think art is important for conservation?
I believe art is a powerful tool for education and change because it can strongly connect to an audience both visually and emotionally. It is then that you can engage people to take action and protect a species or habitat.
Also, most people don't go diving and don't see what's beneath the surface of the sea. Therefore, I believe that providing knowledge is of utmost importance and that is why I love drawing endangered species such as sharks or turtles and talk about them.
What message do you hope people take from your art?
Through my art, I hope to convey the beauty and diversity of the ocean, as well as the urgent need to protect it. As a biologist and diver, I have experienced the feeling of peace, happiness, and connection to the Ocean that comes with diving. I always strive to capture this feeling in my illustrations, and I hope that it will also evoke this felling in everyone that sees my art. I want my art to help people connect with the ocean and appreciate its beauty, as we can only protect what we love.
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