When did you first become interested in art?
As a child I always had paper, pens, sticker/colouring books and play dough in my hands. My mums best friend has also made occasion cards since I can remember and she always used to give colourful card and fun materials to experiment with, that’s where it all started! I think my childish approach to design is still true today!
How would you describe your design style?
I would describe my design style as lively and playful.
What inspires you?
Inspiration for me stems from every day dispositions, my surroundings and feelings. I also spend a lot of time looking at/ reading up on my favourite artists and designers which inspire me to get creative every single day!
What is your favourite piece in your collection?
‘Powerful Pinks’ and ‘Unruly Huddle’ are easily my favourite pieces. Odd compositions and colour combinations are a love of mine and I feel these two designs represent that extremely well.
Is there any artistic talent in your family?
I’m sure my Grandma and Dad is probably where my artistic talents stem from. My Grandma is arty and creative when it comes to floral art, painting and cake decorating, whereas my Dad is an engineer and always seems to have some crazy ideas running around his head to make and create on a larger scale.
What is the journey you take to produce your work?
The journey I take is very typical of how I’ve always been taught in education. I love the research process and sketchbooks are crucial in assisting my ideas and keeping my thoughts all together in one place. Colour is very important to me, I always like to decide on a palette before I go anywhere with an idea! Pinterest is my ‘go to’ inspiration whenever I have a mental block too!
What made you want to be a part of Art Rookie?
I actually got the email to join Art Rookie whilst I was exhibiting my graduate collection at New Designers in Islington, London. I liked Liz and Jodie’s personable and friendly approach and the idea that they have been in a similar position to me too!
When you’re not creating masterpieces what do you enjoy doing?
When I do have the time (which isn’t too often) I really enjoy the outdoors. My mum has always branded me a ‘thinker’ and I love putting my headphones in and going on long walks or runs. Music is also a big love of mine, I seem to spend most of my money on gigs with friends and family!
Have you faced any struggles getting your work noticed?
I believe you’re a very lucky individual if you have no struggles trying to get your work noticed. Social media is very beneficial for artists trying to distinguish themselves! It’s free and easily accessible 24/7; instagram has been a great success for me in being a gateway to get my work out there. In other respects, I’ve taken a step back from trying to promote my work as much at the moment whilst I work on my portfolio.
Where would we find you hanging out in the UK?
I graduated from Manchester School of Art in July this year and whilst I was at Uni I absolutely fell in love with the city. The creative industry is so prevalent there and there’s always great exhibitions to go to. Since coming home, Liverpool is my closest city. I love exploring galleries and museums and when I’m tired of them you can always find me stuffing my face at my favourite restaurants.
What makes British talent different than elsewhere?
There is something very special about art and design that is produced and manufactured in Britain and people are very proud of that! The diversity and amount of talent in Britain is outstanding, especially when you look at the work of recent graduates! I’d like to think that our extensive history and culture has a lot to do with it too!
What are your plans for the rest of 2016 and 2017?
I’m currently setting up business for children’s interiors with a lot help from the Prince’s Trust! This will be for the likes of soft furnishings; bean bags, cushions, bedding etc. My Dad and Grandad are in the process of building me a little garden studio (another one of Dads big plans), so that I have my own space to work from at home. So once that is complete, I plan on giving the business a big push! I also plan on doing some art/ print fairs in the nearer future too!
www.artrookie.co.uk/Jenniekate94
