When did you first become interested in art?
I’ve had an interest in art from as early as I can remember, It’s something that runs in our family.
How would you describe your design style?
I don’t think I have a specific design style. I have found that when I consciously tried to focus on a particular style in creating a body of work it has been constricting. For me, the best part of being an artist is the freedom of creative expression with no restriction. I design based on what inspires me at the time and as my inspiration varies from day to day, so does my style. I will go wherever the wind takes me and there are no limitations to what I do or where I want to take my work but this may, overtime, evolve into a particular way of perceiving and executing my work which is recognisable as “Geri’s style”.
What inspires you?
Everything! I find inspiration in anything and everything, which is why I carry my sketch book around everywhere. Whenever I find inspiration I doodle it down in a quick sketch or, if I don’t have time for that, I will simply express the key elements in words to translate into pictures later.
What is your favourite piece in your collection?
This is a hard question because my designs are so completely different one from another and I create them for very different reasons.
However, I would say I’m torn between my flamingo print and my braver print. This is because I mostly enjoy creating designs that people can relate to and I feel both of these achieve that, so perhaps, both can simultaneously be my favourites if that’s allowed.
Is there any artistic talent in your family?
Most definitely. My sister Catherine; she is the true artist of the family and after many successful years as a print designer she now runs her own successful homeware business. She is an incredible artist and my inspiration. Whilst we were both keen artists at school, gaining equal artistic merit, she believed in and pursued her artistic talent and never wavered in her artistic objectives. I, on the other hand, kept mine as a mere hobby choosing to pursue a more academic study route believing this would be the most fruitful, if not necessarily fulfilling, way forward. It wasn’t until recent years that I turned everything on its head and decided to follow my heart rather than my head and now I only wish I’d done it sooner.
What is the journey you take to produce your work?
I used to always do my work digitally but more recently I’ve gone back to basics and most of my work now starts with my sketch book, what I call ‘my best ideas’ book. All my ideas and sources of inspiration are jotted down or ‘doodled’ for future development. It was/is a struggle to find time to develop new ideas and look after two small, lively children and I decided to start doodling whilst my eldest daughter Emilia did her colouring book. This time allowed me to at least begin the creative process of developing ideas whilst spending time with my girls doing what they love and I love. I would then, when both girls are in bed, use my evenings to truly develop them into something usable.
What made you want to be a part of Art Rookie?
I was blown away by the level of talent already on there and quite frankly I was honoured to be considered good enough to stand amongst them. It was a no brainer really!
When you’re not creating your masterpieces what do you enjoy doing?
Sleeping!! Haha! I have two children, so this is usually my default answer but the truth is, I have accepted that lack of sleep goes hand in hand with combining having a young family and trying to run a business. However, when I’m not doing what I do, I love nothing more than seeing my friends & rediscovering the me before everything else!
Have you faced any struggles getting your work noticed?
Yes, but I think this is part and parcel of doing something ‘arty’ as a “job” and why I feared taking the plunge when it came to choosing a career direction at school. I think, no matter how talented you are, unless you happen to be at the right place at the right time, or have plenty of money to market yourself, there will always be some struggles with getting noticed. Like it or not it’s all about exposure! If only there was an X factor for illustrators and designers! Haha! That said, considering I’ve only “officially” been at this for just shy of 2 years I’ve had my fair share of notice and success; it just depends on what is your measure of success. I measure mine by each and every person that chooses to purchase my work above any other. This is success to me; to be found and noticed with no or very little PR when there are so many incredible artists and illustrators out there. I am filled with indescribable delight to know that a piece of my work has been chosen to complete someone’s home and this feeling puts the struggles into proportion for me.
Where would we find you hanging out in the UK?
Mainly at home in Milton Keynes (the home of concrete cows and roundabouts) although when I’m not here I’m anywhere but!
What makes British talent different than elsewhere?
I don’t know if it’s just me but when I think of Art I always think of Britain first which, to me, is full to the brim of unique and interesting designers who have this incredible ability to create an array of work that looks so varied and different from any other place; to me Britain is a very free society with a tolerance for the eccentric and appreciation of uniqueness in life. I think Art Rookie itself is a fine example of this.
What are your plans for 2014?
To grow! As well as Art Rookie, I am lucky enough to also sell on a few other major online retailers but I would love to see my work in even more places and be endorsed and featured through as many outlets as possible. I love what I do and growth is the only way I can ensure I can keep doing it.
Best wishes
Geri
