The Inspiration...
I am drawn to pushing the boundaries of imagination, creating paintings that not only spark warmth and nostalgia but also carry a sense of story. Much of my work is inspired by characters and concepts from film and television, moments that ignite wonder and stay with me. At the heart of my practice is a belief in honoring the inner child, and I aim to make artistic choices that invite viewers to reconnect with a freer, more playful, and imaginative part of themselves. While the larger meaning of each piece may remain open, the fragments of story I capture are meant to evoke a sense of euphoria. In this way, my paintings become love letters to the world. My artist name, Love Mana, is both a signature and a reminder that each work is a gift of affection, wonder, and possibility.
The Story...
Amanda “Love Mana” Estrada is a San Diego based artist whose work bridges the worlds of animation, storytelling, and fine art. She earned her BFA in Animation and Game Art and began her career as a 3D artist in film, where she developed a deep appreciation for the power of visual narrative. That love of animation and story continues to shape her paintings today. Drawing on her background in 3D art, she begins each piece by sculpting ideas in digital space, then refines them with digital drawing tools before bringing them to life on canvas.
Specializing in surreal fantasy scenes, Love Mana creates transportive works that invite viewers into realms of wonder and imagination. Her style is distinguished by vibrant color palettes, intricate details, and soft, dreamlike elements, compositions that feel both otherworldly and deeply familiar. Through Love Mana, her artistic moniker, she shares her vision as a series of luminous “love letters,” celebrating the beauty of imagination and the joy of childlike wonder.
