When did you first become interested in art?
Since I was really little, I was always drawing or making stuff, albeit I didn’t know I wanted to be an illustrator at the time. Me and art have been friends for years and then some.
How would you describe your design style?
Haha – I’m always worried about my style whenever any one asks me ‘what my style is?’ I’m always stumped for a decent answer. As I think it can differ sometimes, but on a whole ..it’s colourful and thoughtful ..maybe a little peculiar at times.
What inspires you?
All sorts – I think that is one of the greatest beauties of being an illustrator/artist. Your not confided to one resource for inspiration..everything is up for your interpretation. Although saying that nature and people tend to make me pick up a pencil most of the time.
What is your favourite piece in your collection?
Usually the newest thing and then I get bored of it haha. But at the moment I’m really pleased with the ‘Man’ and ‘Woman’ illustrations of mine, there is something about the shape of them and the colours..I just feel like I did a good job (I know i’m not supposed to say that)
Is there any artistic talent in your family?
There is! My sister Hannah is an artist she’s a couple of years younger than me and is an awesome oil painter and installation artist. She’s definitely giving me a run for my money as the arty one in the family.
What is the journey you take to produce your work?
It usually starts with my sketch book, where I make notes and crappy doodles of ideas or themes. I then develop these ideas before I paint the finals.(I’m hell bent on having originals.) Then I scan/photograph these and edit them so they are internet/print friendly.
What made you want to be a part of Art Rookie?
The fact that Art Rookie is supporting UK designers was a big sell as I’m not sure there is much out there for fresh British illustrators in terms of getting their work out there and on quality products. I also really wanted to see what my designs would look like on plates!
When you’re not creating masterpieces what do you enjoy doing?
A good night out with some of my favourite people and some terrible dancing thrown in for good measure, wouldn’t go a miss. Although it’s very rare these days as I’m usually juggling two or three freelance jobs at a time with different demands and dead lines.
Have you faced any struggles getting your work noticed?
Yeah,of course! I think every illustrator faces this dilemma (Unless they are one of those right time, right place sorts) It can be so hard to get noticed as there are so many talented folks out there that it almost becomes a job in itself promoting your work. But I think you’ve just gotta persevere and remember that your trying to make a living out of something you love to do. Of course it’s not going to be plain sailing all the time but you’ll figure it out and it’s worth the struggle.
Where would we find you hanging out in the UK?
Public transport! I feel like I live on trains and coaches at the moment. But at this very second I’m in the beautiful country side of South Wales working on some posters.
What makes British talent different than elsewhere?
That’s a pretty tough question…I’m not sure. Maybe it’s got something to do with all that tea we drink.
What are your plans for 2014?
I’ll be illustrating, freelancing the rest of the year, got a few projects coming up and a really lovely project for a good cause with a bunch talented illustrators.
