| Alana Pockros: What inspired the cover art you designed for our January issue on the LA resistance? Was there a particular story in the issue that sparked something for you, or a photo you drew from?
Edel Rodriguez: I watched much of the news and social media [blasts] that came out from the Los Angeles protests. LA Taco is a great source. Their on-the-ground coverage is excellent. When the cover assignment and headline arrived from Robert Best, The Nation’s art director, I was prepared and excited to contribute several sketches and ideas. This composition felt like it had the right kind of energy.
AP: Many people recognize you for your iconic faceless illustrations of Donald Trump. How do you see that work in relation to what you’ve done for our LA issue?
ER: Most of the work I make is direct and to the point. I began making the Trump illustrations back in 2016, when he was not taken very seriously as a candidate. People didn’t believe he would do the things he’s doing now. What’s happening in LA and other American cities is the kind of thing I was warning [people] about nine years ago.
AP: What do you hope readers take away from this cover, which prominently features protesters?
ER: That we should speak loudly and stand up for those who can’t do so for themselves. |
