For 22 years working with manga and illustrations. Self-taught since I was little, I have been teaching several students in the last 15 years the magic of drawing.

Find out more about Washington Costa

• 1) When did you start practicing? How did this passion find you?

  I started very young, when I was still a child. I was always interested and always drew, and everyone always said that I drew well. I believe that this passion came from seeing the beautiful drawings that my mother made of me when I had to do my school homework.

• 2) Which artists or works affect you the most?

  I have always loved Japanese artists, so many of my influences came from there. There are so many names, but I could mention, First of all Osamu Tezuka, the god of manga, Takeshi Obata, Takehiko Inoue, Naoki Urasawa, Ryoichi Ikegami, as well as Westerners Frank Cho and Alex Ross as great inspirations.

• 3) What are the qualities and skills required to succeed in this area?

  I sincerely believe that, above all, you should like what you do, do what makes you happy and have the desire to improve, to always evolve. Drawing has always been something fun for me and I have always enjoyed learning more and more. One thing that always helps is to observe what is happening around you, having a good spatial vision and a routine of practicing whenever possible also helps a lot.

• 4) What is the most valuable advice you can give to help someone stay focused on creative projects?

  Don't forget to breathe, let your mind air out, always keep your mind well fed, whether with references or even readings on subjects related and not related to the universo of ART and creation.

• 5) How would you describe your passion; how does it make you feel? eu fico

  I am always very happy when I start a new project, when I organize a new class, when I see someone trying hard to improve and evolve. I love studying everything related to drawing, teaching drawing and, at the same time, in general. For me, doing what I love gives me a sense of accomplishment, and I am very happy to be able to share all the knowledge I have acquired over all these years. I am always grateful for the trust my students place in me.

• 6) What creative achievements are you particularly proud of?

  With my students, we developed and launched a magazine inspired by the Shonen Jump model. It was an incredible experience.

• 7) Have you ever been surprised by a student; by their ability or quick progression?

  Yes, I have had students with surprising learning potential and creativity. I am very happy to be able to meet people like that.

• 8) Being a Superprof is an art! What is your secret?

  Dedication, study and passion for what I do. I am very proud to be a teacher and to be able to help several students develop their art.