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I have an investigative nature and am very much attracted to the experimental nature of illustration, trying out as many ideas as possible, as I feel that this is the most exciting part of designing. What also draws me to illustration is the inter-disciplinary aspect – trying out and developing skills in different areas and media in order to develop a visual language – so naturally the combination of illustration and animation on the course appeals to me, as it provides a new direction for my work.

Whilst I am particularly keen on the beginning stages of a project, my enthusiasm does not waver as I enjoy seeing my work develop through the stages of the design process: from the initial research and experimentation, through to contextualising my work and relating it to that of other designers, and producing final ideas. Finding other illustrators to compare my work with is particularly exciting, as it gives me insight into what is currently happening in the world of design. To this end I regularly seek out relevant books, magazines and websites (my favourites are Nobrow, Popshot magazine and Illustration Rally blog).

I have been inspired by various illustrators, designers, artists and people in my work. I love Jonny Hannah’s typography and composition; Oliver Jeffers and Sara Fanelli for their combination of collage and paint; Blexbolex’s blocky prints and Rob Ryan’s intricate papercuts.

Since I finished my foundation course in June I have been working full-time, and at first I found it hard to find the time to give my work proper attention, having no real pressure to do anything, or a readily available audience of tutors and friends. I then realised that I just had to push myself and make myself do it, and as such have become very self-motivated and my confidence in my work has improved.

Some of the following work is from my art foundation course, and some is self-initiated work I have done since finishing the course in June.