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Softness in the Shadows
Introducing glooth, an illustrator based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. While her art may appear eerie or unsettling at first glance, it carries a deep sense of nostalgia and melancholy. Her inspirations are drawn from joyful moments spent with loved ones and the things she cherishes, such as music and anime.
@glooooth (formerly known as v4ng0th) often reflects on childhood memories, transforming them into expressive illustrations and sculptures. A fun fact about her—she was once part of an all-girl alternative rock ‘n’ roll band called Timemachine. We were curious to learn more about her creative process and perspective—read on to discover what we found.
Hi Gladys, nice to meet you :) Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Hi, I introduce myself as an illustrator but I love creating with any medium. I love having fun and trying new things.
What is your background as an artist/creator? How did you first get into drawing and painting?
I grew up constantly doodling, which led my mom to put me in art classes. I was drawn to photorealism for years, obsessing over detail, until I suddenly shifted to more exaggerated, surreal styles after being heavily influenced by the media I consumed like cartoons, anime, and music during my teen years. I don’t remember exactly how or when but it suddenly clicked in me that I didn’t have to draw things exactly how they are, it was a lot more fun drawing things from imagination that didn’t exist right in front of my eyes!
How would you describe your artistic style and influences?
I think my art used to be very loud, rebellious and striking but as I’ve grown, my style has shifted into something more gloomy and subdued. Now, I think it carries a quieter sense of nostalgia and melancholy.
We understand that you used to play in a band. Is there any inspiration that comes from music?
I feel like the songs that I like look like my art. My favourite band since I was a kid until now is Seahaven. They’re quite loud, but their lyrics are very gentle.
You have developed two designs for this collaboration, could you share the themes or messages you aimed to convey through each cover? We would like to understand your creative vision behind them.
A common theme I wanted to convey through both covers is introspection and identity exploration between past and present selves. ‘My Old Friend’ explores the idea of revisiting and getting to know your past selves. It’s a drawing of two individuals deep in thought and deep in conversation. While I was drawing it, I imagined what it would be like if the current me could sit down with a younger me. ‘Never Forget’ is more straightforward with its message in my opinion. I didn’t have as much certainty while drawing it but it leans more into the mourning of a version of yourself that no longer exists. Both covers are introspective but one leans toward reconciliation while the other toward grief.
Are there any hidden details or symbolism in your design that you'd like to share with us?
I chose a cemetery background for ‘My Old Friend’ because I wanted to delve deeper into the imagination of having a resting place for all the versions of me. In ‘Never Forget’, I drew a tiny person slumped over, unable to do anything but stare ahead to evoke a sense of helplessness. The larger figure is spaced out, not present but not fully gone either, just existing in a grey area.
What's the process like when you develop this design? Do you face any challenges or obstacles while creating the design? If so, how did you overcome them?
I didn't really face much challenge with ‘My Old Friend’ but I did struggle quite a bit with ‘Never Forget’. I couldn’t really find a color palette that I felt suited the cover so I completed the artwork in black and white and just hoped for the best.
What materials or techniques did you use to bring your design to life?
I’m a Procreate user through and through when it comes to digital art but the irony is that I LOVE using pencil brushes to recreate the feel of a traditional drawing haha.
What advice do you have for aspiring artists or creators who want to make their mark in the industry?
I think you just have to create from the heart. I’ve lost my way many times on my artistic journey but reconnecting with the reason I choose to create has always helped me get back on track.
Are there any other artists or creators who inspire you in your work?
Emotionally and mentally, the people who inspire me most aren’t from my field. I enjoy listening/watching random podcasts and interviews a lot so I find creative energy in unexpected places. Off the top of my head, words and lessons that I found deeply resonant were by Serj Tankian, Hozier, and Jacob Collier. Visually, I love and adore art by congming33, wuwuren4, ggrr_ook, 137.oo
Do you have any favourite Mossery products or designs from other artists that have caught your attention?
I really love Nadhir’s tshirts!! Especially the insect one haha.
Is there anything else you'd like to share with the Mossery community and those who appreciate your work?
It still catches me off guard when people tell me they enjoy or appreciate my work because I’m my own harshest critic. I’d just like to genuinely thank everyone who supports me in any way, I’m very grateful for the love and encouragement I receive as an artist.
A big thank you to glooth for sharing her artistic journey and insights. If you found her work inspiring, we encourage you to discover more of her creations with us here!
