What began as a childhood love of pencils and sketchbooks gradually became a lifelong pursuit of artistic mastery.
For Rene, drawing is rooted in discipline and observation—the patience to study details, practice consistently, and push each technique as far as it can go. With more than 30 illustration techniques explored throughout his career, his artistic journey continues to evolve through constant experimentation and practice.
In this interview, he reflects on how drawing grew from a childhood hobby into a profession, and why there is always another technique to discover.
The Foundation of Practice
When did drawing first become a serious part of your artistic practice?
Ever since I was a child, I always loved drawing everything around me, always happy with a pencil and a notebook.
What did working extensively with pencil teach you about drawing and observation?
I have always liked discipline, and observation works on the details. It’s a passion for me.
How has your approach to art changed since those early years?
At first, it was a hobby, something I enjoyed, but over the years, I realized that this is a way of life—it’s a profession.
What did you learn from working within the limitations of a single medium?
In reality, I work with over 30 illustration techniques. I start with one, practice it step-by-step until I master it, and push it to its limits.
Could you share your favorite piece of work at this stage and introduce it briefly?
I actually have many pieces that I like, but right now, I’m practicing more with alcohol markers.
Across Materials & Methods
What attracts you to working across such a wide range of mediums?
The possibilities become so vast. After mastering one technique, it’s important to explore others and achieve incredible effects.
Do you choose the medium based on the idea, or does the medium sometimes inspire the idea?
Absolutely. First, I think about the effects I want to achieve, then I consider my catalog of technical possibilities to execute it, and finally, I put it into practice to get the desired result.
What have you discovered by combining different materials in your work?
Honestly, incredible things. Materials often behave differently depending on the surface, and as you practice, you discover whole new possibilities.
After working primarily with pencil earlier in your career, how does working with brushes feel different to you today?
Brushes will always be the essential follow-up tool after drawing, as they allow you to apply various techniques—whether dry, semi-dry, wet, or heavily diluted. Having good brushes will always be an excellent asset to work with.
Is there a medium you currently feel you are still learning from?
There are actually many. I love working with oil, acrylic, watercolor, and gouache, just to name a few.
The Practice in Motion
How do you see your artistic practice evolving in the years ahead?
I am very satisfied with what I am doing today. Currently, I run a studio called Estudios Jasso Ilustradores, where I serve as director and administrator. Because of this role, I don’t have many hours to dedicate to illustrating, but I would love to be able to do it full-time.
Are there mediums you haven’t explored yet that you’re particularly curious about?
Mainly mixed media, as the possibilities are vast. That said, I feel I am already covering most traditional (manual) illustration techniques.
What keeps you motivated to continue learning after developing such a broad skill set?
I teach in-person classes, and seeing all my students grow is what motivates me.
Do you see yourself becoming more focused on a particular medium, or continuing to work across many?
I am a seasonal illustrator or artist. I don’t like sticking to a single technique; I regularly shift between several.
What do you hope people recognize as uniquely yours in your work?
I am an illustrator, so my work isn’t typically based on feelings or personal expression. Instead, it seeks to make whatever I create visually appealing. I am heavily driven by trends, constantly moving forward to achieve the best possible results.
For Rene, there is no final destination in the pursuit of art.
Each new medium and technique offers another opportunity to observe, practice, and grow. From the familiar graphite pencil to his current experiments with alcohol markers, his work reflects a lifelong commitment to learning and mastering the craft.
After all, sometimes the best way to move forward is simply to keep drawing.
Want to see more from Rene? Find him here:
Rene's Instagram
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