Today we’d like to introduce you to Lori Black.
Hi Lori, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m Lori Black, a freelance concept artist and illustrator. A visual storyteller with a mission to create stories that feel alive.
My journey has been a series of works in progress, each chapter leading me to where I am today.
I grew up in Puerto Rico and had a very happy childhood. Like many artist origin stories, I was drawn to art like a moth to flame from a very early age. I was always creating. But it’s only recently that I’ve realized what truly drives my art isn’t just the act of making, it’s storytelling.
Growing up as a creative introvert, I loved to read, watch anime, paint, and draw. I’ve played the flute since I was six and was also a competitive swimmer. I had many hobbies, but art was the one thing I never wanted to let go of. The idea of becoming a professional artist didn’t even feel possible to me, until one day it did.
I saw an illustrator post their college project online, and something clicked instantly. I realized not only that art could be a career, but that I could study it. That moment changed everything. At the time, there weren’t many programs in Puerto Rico focused on narrative art, so I continued my journey at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Savannah, Georgia, where I earned my BFA in Illustration. After graduating, I still felt unsure about my direction. A professor encouraged me to continue my education, so I pursued a Master’s degree in Visual Development at Academy of Art University.
Today, I freelance on projects ranging from posters and album covers to book covers, character design, and environment design. I also work at Sofia Art Academy, teaching students ages seven and up. There my goal is to help young artists navigate their paths more smoothly than I did and guide them as they find their own artistic voice. I also volunteer at Dreamarc Studios, and do work for New york based Designer Carolina Sarria.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road, even though, in many ways, I’ve been incredibly blessed. I have an amazing support system. My parents have always supported my dreams, my friends cheer me on, and my loving boyfriend supports me endlessly. I’ve never lacked encouragement.
So why, with all that support, have I struggled to believe in myself?
That has been the real challenge since day one. I’ve had no real enemies but myself.
At the Savannah College of Art and Design, I discovered just how many paths exist within illustration. We explored editorial, marketing, fashion, packaging, stationery, concept art, and visual development. Every project I made looked different because I was trying everything. I had no defined style. I was constantly experimenting.
It often felt like everyone around me was already a professional, like they were born knowing exactly what they wanted to do. Meanwhile, I felt unsure and behind. That lack of self-confidence cost me opportunities and jobs because I hesitated, doubted myself, and sometimes didn’t put myself forward the way I should have.
There’s also always the financial reality of pursuing a creative career. I’ve worked part-time in retail and entertainment and freelanced to get by. But even there, I’ve been fortunate. When I’ve truly needed help, my support system has stepped in.
The difference now is that I’m confident in my abilities. I understand that growth is a process, and I’m much kinder to myself than I used to be. I’ve learned that not knowing right away doesn’t mean you’re not meant for it, it just means you’re still becoming.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I call myself a professional visual storyteller because, at the core of everything I create, there is always a story. While my official titles are concept artist and illustrator, I specialize in character design, illustration, and story-driven work.
Recently, I’ve collaborated with local musical artists like RONKA on album covers and other creative projects, and I’m incredibly proud of that work. I’m also proud of my work with Dreamarc Studios, where I create marketing illustrations. Seeing my art exist in real, professional spaces has been deeply rewarding.
Beyond client work, I’m especially proud of my personal projects, especially the ones still in progress. I can see what they’re becoming, and through them, I can see who I’m becoming. Those stories feel honest and necessary. They’re pouring out of me in ways that feel aligned with who I am.
I’m also very proud of my work at Sofia Art Academy. I never imagined I would become a teacher, especially not teaching children. But they’ve helped me more than I ever expected. At the academy, I realized that I am enough — that I do know what I’m talking about, and that I can guide and support young artists. That experience has strengthened not just my teaching, but my confidence in myself as an artist.
What sets me apart is that I’m still deeply connected to the process of becoming. I don’t just create images, I build worlds, I ask questions, and I let story lead the way. With my clients, it’s always a collaboration. I’m working with them, not just for them. I care about understanding their vision, their voice, and what they’re trying to say, so that what we create feels intentional and alive.
What’s next?
My long-term goal is to continue growing as a visual storyteller and to work more consistently in book cover illustration and concept art. Right now, I’m focused on building a strong body of work, developing my personal projects, and continuing to refine my voice as an artist. I see everything I’m doing as steps toward that bigger vision. No drastic changes, just steady growth, stronger work, and bigger storytelling opportunities ahead.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://loriblack.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_loriblack/?hl=en
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-black-7968831ab/
Image Credits
DreamArc Studios
