Abby's Illustrations!

Photography...

2012-01-28T17:23:00.000Z

It's been a little while since my last post, so firstly, hello! Unfortunately my drawings didn't win the What Is Love competition, but I'm working on improving them and hopefully I can launch them myself as prints and cards in the near future!

I've recently treated myself to a new camera (the boyfriend handily stood on and broke the last - but I was secretly happy about the fact we had the perfect excuse for a new one!), so I've been happily snapping away this last week. One subject I never tire of capturing is flowers. I love the final images, they're so bright and inviting.

We went for a little trip to Oxford last weekend, so I took the opportunity to take some architecture photographs, another beautiful subject matter. (I always find architecture fascinating and believe buildings can really bring something special to a place - I could spend ages gazing, snapping and drawing an interesting structure).

The final image in Oxford (above) reminded me of my holiday in Venice - the closeness, how unique each building is and those beautiful colours. Below are some of my favourites.

And, of course, I can't get excited about buildings without mentioning my trip to Tokyo. The vibrancy, the height, the lines and the excitement of the landscape there was incredible and completely different from the aforementioned.

And, finally, Kyoto! Just as stunning but a stark contrast from Tokyo. I love how intricate these are. It really is a very magical place. I can't wait to go back and see more!

I've decided I want to illustrate some of these photographs, both the flowers and buildings. I love illustrating people and fashion but I also love experimenting and working on something completely different. I think it helps keep work fresh and interesting, as well as allowing me to translate my way of working into new subject matter. I think it definitely helps someone's decision when commissioning you too. I remember a tutor at uni once told me - if someone wants a drawing of a spoon, they want to know you can draw a spoon. You may be a brilliant illustrator but they may not be able to envisage your style working with that subject. So draw anything and everything - I love that!

So you may see some of these come to life as drawings very soon! Enjoy the rest of your weekend and I won't leave my next post as long!

What Is Love?

2012-01-13T20:05:00.002Z

This morning I found that Tigerprint had a competition ending today. I decided the subject, "what Is Love?' was too good to pass up so got working on it this morning. I love illustrating love, it's a beautiful and strong subject and with everybody being so different, there is a lot of scope.

I had actually started some personal work a few days ago and they seemed like the perfect start. Flowers have very strong connotations with love, so it was perfect! Basically my thoughts were to produce a number of different phrase and colour combinations, writing some of the things love means to me, and hopefully means to others! (I produced the blue and green for those who don't like pink - but I think it worked just as effectively!)

The first two are the drawings I had already done followed by my five entries. I hope you (and they!) like them.

And my entries..

Wish me look!

EDIT: The LOVE part is my own text, the other is a commercial use text I found. With more time I would have attempted it all by hand. Maybe next time, I'd love to play with text more!

Lionheart Magazine In Print

2012-01-05T13:59:00.001Z

I posted about Lionheart Magazine before Christmas. I knew already i was going to love it but when I received my own copy it was more than I could ever have imagined. The stunning cover, the thick matte pages throughout, the beautiful photography and use of illustration throughout, the articles, the ideas, the interviews. it's magical. Hels has done herself so proud and I hope this magazine will get the platform it thoroughly deserves. If you haven't bought a copy yet, you can buy it here. If you appreciate craft, art, quirkiness, wonderful imagery then you'll love this. I love the fact Hels is so supportive of independent people, specifically the fact that she uses so much illustration! Other magazines focus on the photos - Lionheart has both, a perfect mix! Here are some photos I have taken of the mag:

I absolutely love the patterns used throughout the magazine, designed by Georgia Coote. And the cover illustration by Gemma Millie is truly beautiful.

I was asked to use my previous illustration of Fritha for a piece on her and little Wilfryd (still a tiny peach when written!) I was delighted for her to use my piece, Fritha is such an inspiration and I love how we've gotten to know each other through twitter - I even went to stay with her at the beginning of the year! A wonderful read!

This illustration was produced to accompany an interview with Bleubird Vintage, the inspiring owner of this beautiful blog. It's one of my favourite blogs and I always come away feeling positive, inspired and full of ideas. I love her photographs and posts on motherhood. Her blog makes me excited about the future - home and family - and I think it is her blog that made me want to share more photographs in my posts (so thank you Bleubird!). The interview with her is as inspiring and wonderful as always, so enjoy!

My final piece in the magazine was a fashion illustration inspired by designer, Jeff Garner of organic design label, Prophetik. I love his designs and in particular the piece I illustrated from his A/W 2011/2012 collection. His work is both bold and striking whilst still remaining very wearable. The interviews discusses his journey, ideas, his ethical approach and much more. (I also love Teapots page opposite my illustration!) Below is my illustration in full. I loved this piece - the colours, detailing and the mix of dark and light.

Below are some of my favourite pieces from the magazine. The first is a piece by writer and presenter Cherry Healey (most known for her insightful and thought provoking BBC3 documentaries), discussing the magazine's theme of Bravery. I absolutely love the illustration by Rachel Lewis, it's stunning! The next is an interview with illustrator, Daria Hlazatova. Her work is so dreamlike and magical, I could get lost in her blog all day. You can see the detail and love she puts into her illustrations. And finally, an interview with Emma Block. I feel like I have grown with Emma, graduating at the same time, appearing in Amelia's Cmpendium of Fashion Illustration together. I love watching her develop and this is a lovely little piece!

I really couldn't recommend this magazine more. it's full of so much beauty and inspiration! I can't wait for the next issue already!

Christmas Loveliness

2012-01-03T23:29:00.000Z

One of the cats hiding behind the Christmas tree. Aw.

I lost my favourite scarf after a family Boxing Day Meal at Mat's Grandma's resulted in me, him, his brother and cousin ending the evening in a club. Very sad! I saw this as the perfect excuse to buy myself a new one. Love this and it's super warm!

You may remember my blog post not so long ago about the clothbound series by Coralie Bickford-Smith I was dying to get my hands on. Well, I received six for Christmas from various family members. I cannot wait to get reading. They look amazing on my shelves along with the other books I got for Christmas. Happy! I'd seen the Penguin Classic books below in a local charity shop when I was home a few months ago. I bought one but couldn't afford these two. My mum went back and bought the other two. Love the illustrated covers!

I also got The Vintage Tea Party Book. The book, by Angel Adoree, is beautiful. It is filled with recipes, decorations, clothing and everything else vintage tea party-esque. The illustrations, by Adele Mildred are really stunning too.

The Best of 2011

2012-01-01T20:37:00.000Z

Well this year has been rather wonderful - the launch of Amelia's Compendium of Fashion Illustration, an illustration for the V&A, final show, graduation, mural work, brother's wedding, winning Company's High Street Edit fashion illustration competition, Shipshape Studio opening and stocking my work, first issue of Lionheart Magazine out (and amazing), Digital Arts tutorial, the arrival baby Crayonette and ahh. I'm really excited for the year ahead and my one resolution is to get myself more organised. This means I need to purchase an inspiring diary, too. Win! I hope your year has been wonderful and here's hoping the next will be amazing.

Bleubird Vintage

2011-12-30T23:06:00.001Z

I started following James Kicinski-Mccoy, or as she has become known to the internet world, Bleubird Vintage, after seeing re-tweets on twitter. As soon as I saw her blog, I fell in love. It is full of posts including fashion, photography, craft, home-schooling, family (beautiful family!) and much more. Everything is incredibly inspiring and I would recommend reading it to absolutely everybody. There will be something for you!

I was recently asked by Hels Martin to illustrate a picture of her and her youngest daughter, Gemma Bird to accompany her interview in Lionheart Magazine. Of course, I jumped a the chance. I illustrated two in the end and one can be found in the magazine. I hope she will see and like what I have done! They were beautiful photographs to illustrate.

Both illustrations were created using photographs from Bleubird Vintage and you can find these and many more over on her blog! Do go and look at her posts, you'll feel warm!

Christmas Illustrations

2011-12-28T16:53:00.000Z

I've produced a couple of illustrations this Christmas and thought it was the perfect time to share them with you! I'm really happy with how they both turned out and I'm very glad the recipients were happy too! The first is an illustration for my friend, Sam. He wanted an illustration of him and his two sisters as a Christmas present for his mum. It was a fun and happy piece to illustrate and apparently it printed up beautifully.

The second picture I did as a little present for someone I work with. She's currently on maternity leave with her beautiful baby girl and I wanted to do it for her as a Christmas present. I really enjoyed illustrating her and I will be sharing a couple more baby illustrations tomorrow. I've discovered babies are one of my favourite illustration subjects! Maybe I will explore this are more, if you'd like something produced don't hesitate to contact me!

I hope your Christmas has been wonderful and have a very happy New Year! I will be back with more new work and Christmas books posts!

A little fox for a beautiful Wilfryd

2011-12-20T23:52:00.000Z

Those of you regulars will know Fritha Strickland, fellow Tea & Crayon member, wonderful illustrator and friend. After months of excitement she has finally had her baby boy; Wilfryd Cadno Quinn. Congratulations!

He is beautiful, isn't he? Very proud of her and extremely happy for her and her partner, Tom. His middle name is welsh for fox, one of Fritha's favourite animals of the moment. I love his name! I did a little fox illustration ad sent it to them framed. They really liked it and said they'd put it up in his nursery. I'm so glad they like it, makes me very happy! I hope little Wilfryd will like it too! Here are some stages :)

A little out of my comfort zone but i stuck to my usual methods and i like the way it turned out! I hope everyone is feeling festive!

Smarten Up Your Fashion Drawings

2011-12-15T21:43:00.001Z

You may remember that I recently produced a tutorial for Digital Arts Magazine. Well it is now available to read and view online, so feel free to go and have a look! Here are a couple of the steps, I hope you enjoy!

Also, massive CONGRATULATIONS to Tea & Crayons member, Fritha Strickland on the birth of her beautiful baby boy, Wilfryd. can't wait to meet him!

Prints To Buy!

2011-12-11T16:33:00.001Z

Due to some extra materials after sending prints to be sold at the Lionheart Magazine launch (today!!), I decided to three prints through my blog. I've never found online shops to be rewarding, so this is quite a rare opportunity! Also, with Christmas sneaking up it seemed like the perfect time. So if you or someone you know would like a signed, mount framed 300gsm fashion illustration print (measuring 8 by 10 inches), here is your opportunity!

Made Bracelet Fashion Illustration.

Made Necklace Fashion Illustration.

Homespun Fashion Illustration.

Each print is £18 including postage. If you would like to buy one please email me on yodalpip@hotmail.co.uk and let me know which you would like! Remember, I don't sell my prints that often, so it's a rare opportunity!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend and I will be blogging again soon! Bye for now!

Shipshape Studio

2011-12-08T22:04:00.000Z

I told you I would be blogging about another wonderful and inspiring young lady, well here we are! I have been a fan of Emily and her works for some time now, in fact I blogged about Emily and her beautiful crafts earlier this year. Not only is she designer and writer, but she, along with her partner, Adam, has just launched a new creative venue and boutique in Greater London. I'm so happy for her; it's been a dream of hers for years and she's done it! I love that she wants to encourage people to try new things, not to be afraid to experiment and give them an outlet to learn new skills. Shipshape Studio looks and sounds like an amazing place!

"Shipshape Studio is an engaging and friendly space where new skills can be learnt

and ideas swapped. With the skills that you learn at Shipshape Studio you can carry on

making the things you love at home. We host art, craft and creative workshops,

as well as events and parties with a difference."

Shipshape will be selling handmade and vintage homeware, stationery, clothing, craft supplies, books and magazines (including the lovely Lionheart) and art. In fact, they asked if they could stock my prints, I jumped at the chance, of course and you can now find my framed prints in their shop. Wonderful!

There will be plenty of craft and design type classes - including classes in illustration, printing, jewellery design, sewing & embroidery, paper craft and knitting. Sounds perfect! You can find out more about these classes here, follow them on twitter and read their wonderful blog. It's such a massive achievement and they've clearly worked their socks off - cleaning, building, sanding, painting, staining and much more. I couldn't feel more proud, impressed and inspired by the hard work and dedication that has gone into achieving the dream. Well done Emily, enjoy it! (Below are some photographs taken from inside by Emily - it looks stunning, I can't wait to see it for myself! I love the colours, reclaimed and second hand fittings, handmade decorations, ahhh...)

I'd also like to say a big thank you to Emily for always being so supportive and encouraging towards me, it means a lot!

Prints: Lionheart Magazine

2011-12-07T21:45:00.002Z

As I said in this recent post, Lionheart Magazine is launching this Sunday! I'm so happy Hels asked me to sell some of my prints at the launch. Everything about the magazine looks just beautiful so to be involved feels so wonderful.

I wanted my prints to look their best so did lots of research into mounts and cellophane packaging. I find that a lot of mounts you can buy in shops seem flimsy and poor quality. They're never as thick as I would like, very expensive and have no backing. I found an online picture framing specialist (based in Bedford) that seemed perfect. The Picture Gallery do made to measure mounts from as little as 70p (when you but 10 or more) and offer you board backs for as little as 40p! I was a little worried to go ahead as it was the first time ordering and I know nobody who has used them. They arrived in great timing (3 days after I gave them my measurements) and were very carefully packaged. They are amazing! Thick, quality, clean - everything I had been searching for! I would completely recommend them, I couldn't be happier! (The print feels so hefty and I think it adds a certain distinction). I have the same feelings towards cellophane print bags. They can be so poor in quality. Luckily I found another online shop; Eden Wrap. Again the quality is fantastic, the delivery fast and the price very reasonable!

I hope this may come in useful to you now or someday. I do think the quality of the packaging reflects on the work and, of course, first impressions count!

Hels is (not so patiently) waiting for her printing to be complete this Friday, reading to sell and send out. I cannot wait to see! Here are some sneak peeks she took on her printing visit to see the process happening!

Exciting!!

Portfolio

2011-12-01T22:44:00.002Z

Something I have discovered (through learning and personal experience) is that a good portfolio can be so important for an illustrator. And it makes sense, how can we expect someone to hire us/ represent us/ want to work with us if we don't make our work look it's very best! There are so many ways of displaying work, of course, but I've always found my illustrations look their best in a clean and crisp setting. I found it so bizarre going from my foundation course where they raved about big portfolios, the bigger the better, to my degree where suddenly bigger than A3 was a no no. I guess it definitely depends on the work. And I must say, I like them compact! Mine is A4 which I think represents the way I work well. I want to work in editorial, publishing and fashion, so bigger than this isn't really necessary.

Anyway, I'm not really sure what the point of this blog post is (most probably my love of blogging & love of sharing everything..), but I've had a few University students and people who are interested in working as an illustrator contact me, so just wanted to share this advice; a good and well presented portfolio really can help! First impressions are crucial. Whenever I share my portfolio, I get really good feedback on the overall look. I think it looks professional too, so definitely worth an investment!

EDIT: some people have asked where I bought my portfolio from. I got mine from here. They were a great company to buy from, I would definitely recommend them!

I do love a good nosy at other people's portfolios, so if you have any images of yours, i would love to see! :) I'm going home for the weekend so I will probably post again on Sunday. I hope you have a lovely weekend and please let me know your thoughts in the meantime!

Illustration & photos

2011-11-30T22:22:00.001Z

Hello! I hope you enjoyed my post on Lionheart Magazine. I have another post about someone (and something) very inspiring to come in the next few days! Hopefully you'll enjoy that too!

To start with, here is a working stage of one of the illustrations in Lionheart. (Fashion illustration showing a dress by Prophetik) I'm so happy with how this one turned out and love it in this stage too!

Christmas has really began in the chocolate shop this week. The mad rush is a little overwhelming (it makes working in a cafe last year seem a doddle!) but it's also becomming an even prettier, exciting and tasty place to work than usual!

Lionheart Magazine

2011-11-29T21:55:00.002Z

Hels Martin often features in my blog posts - she is a fascinating, enthusiastic writer whose words are so romantic and exciting. I love it when she asks me to illustrate alongside them. (Keep your eyes peeled in the future, we have discussed working together on a little project that will be magical, I'm sure).

Earlier this year, when visiting Fritha in Bristol, we went along to a focus group with Hels, discussing our likes and dislikes in the magazines available to us right now. She had research, notebooks, pictures and magazines with her, all ready to get her very own magazine underway. We talked about magazines we loved, subjects we didn't want and what we really desired from a magazine; creativity, stunning illustrations, beautiful photography, inspiring interviews, stories, lifestyle, traveling, real people, craft and style. We knew what we wanted and we knew Hels was the one to produce this perfect magazine. She talked so passionately about it, this magazine was clearly her dream and now, just months on, she has done it! She has finished the first issue and it will be launched next month! (It is now officially with the printers!)

I knew she was determined but I never dreamed she would get there so quickly. She is so dedicated, strong and inspiring. So so inspiring. Watching her achieve this at all, let alone so quickly, has made me more sure than ever that I will follow my dreams, I will illustrate for a career. And I will love doing it! I'm really excited about the future too, so much is possible! Thank you Hels for showing me this, thank you for how supportive of me you are and thank you for the faith you have always shown in me. I am honoured to have a few illustrations in her magazine and I'm sure we will continue to work together for many years!

I have only met Hels once but through twitter, emails and all those features we've worked on together, I feel like I know her. And I'm proud! Very proud of her! Some of her own words about the magazine:

"This is my dream. This here is a blog, dedicated to this dream.

At a time when print is out, the media is going through a transition and we’re all assessing

our bank balances, it’s on, the dream. It’s on. I may never have a mortgage, but I’m darn well making this magazine."

Helen is having a launch party for the magazine in a few weeks (I really hope I can make it!). She will have homemade pizza, crafts, prints to buy (including some of mine!), demonstrations and much more. Perfect! If you know Helen, I'm sure you'll be just as proud, if not, find her at the following places:

I will share updates/photos/sneak peeks as they come! I'm looking forward to sharing the illustrations I have done for the magazine once it is launched! I'm happy with the work I've produced and cannot wait to see them in print!

Books, llustration, books..

2011-11-25T18:00:00.000Z

Hello! I want to share a couple of things. This post is quite image heavy but I hope you'll like it!

Firstly, I've been looking through my old work again and wanted to share a few pieces. The ceramic piece (I have many more at my mum's house) is from my foundation year before starting university. I specialised in ceramics but still used illustration throughout. It was this that made me realise I loved illustration - a love that hasn't faded! The other illustrations are from my first year at University. They're very experimental and I doubt I'd work in this way again, but I like the freedom and use of found and used elements. I think this way of working does still apply to me now. I like to use texture, scanned elements and when I can, I love sewing and using buttons!

I've been gathering my first Christmas presents this week and I really love wrapping them. I've already started that, too...

I found this book in a shop a couple of weeks ago and it is just beautiful. I really want a copy! Love the amount of illustration in there! I'm sure many of you will love it too!

Finally, I know many of you have been watching Frozen Planet over the last few weeks. It's such a beautiful program and today I bought the book to give to somebody for Christmas (don't worry, the person it's for probably doesn't know the internet exists!) I love the photos, I could look at it all night. Definitely worth buying.

How beautiful?!

Have a lovely evening & weekend everybody! We'll be buying more presents and doing some relaxing/plenty of eating!

Inspiring books

2011-11-21T22:20:00.002Z

I love charity shops. Whenever I'm in one, I always keep my eyes open for beautiful old books. I love aged pages, stunning exteriors and faded colours. I love the little messages you find inside some of these books too! I always think that I'll use them for illustrations, but I'd hate to ruin them. I'll definitely be scanning some of the pages and covers to use very soon...

Patterns

2011-11-17T20:11:00.000Z

I just found these patterns I produced in a project back in my second year of university. I hated them at the time, but I quite like them now. I love stumbling across old work, it's very interesting!

Lots to see!

2011-11-15T21:46:00.009Z

I'm feeling very happy and smiley tonight. I love the little things that seem like nothing to those looking in but have memories and mean the world to you...

At work we use Not On The Highstreet to sell our chocolate. Somehow I hadn't heard about it until I started work. It's amazing, like etsy, but more. So much more. Definitely have an explore, but be warned, you'll want to spend! (Although with Christmas coming up, it's a great time to!) I recently bought a lovely handmade Barkcloth Button Brooch from Folly & Glee. The upcycled wool and cashmere brooch looks and feel beautiful, is lovingly made and is such great value! (I'll take a photo of the one I received in the light tomorrow).

And finally, a little work in progress from an illustration I'm working on. Have a nice evening everybody!

Things I want...

2011-11-11T18:02:00.000Z

Here are some things I've decided I want (need) whilst browsing the V&A shop. There are so many beautiful items. I mean, who knew I needed a Fabric Textile Reindeer? Click on the pictures to find out more about them.

Bags, print, book, wooden toys. Ahhh.

Self Portrait: Work In Progress

2011-11-10T23:23:00.000Z

I wanted to do a little something, a self portrait, just for myself and to help me focus myself. I've found it really hard to get work done whilst working almost full time. By the time I'm home, I'm so tired I just want to sit and stare at my television. I hate this feeling and needed to illustrate for myself, with complete freedom, to loosen me up and get me back into the swing of things. I haven't quite finished but wanted to share some previews. I've enjoyed playing around with this piece and I'm glad to have something to share! I didn't choose to illustrate myself through vanity, may I add, but because it's something nice to have! Also, if I can't draw myself, how can I draw anybody else? (I chose this picture because it reminds me of my boyfriend and the silly times we share).

I'm not sure what I'm going to do next, in a way I prefer the last two (which is why they are the last two..) to the more refined one with lip colouring. But I will see how I feel looking at it with fresh eyes. For now, I'm pleased with the results and feel ready to tackle the work I have to get on with tomorrow. (Yes, a day off work to concentrate on my illustration, perfect!) I'm also meeting with a girl writing her dissertation to answer some questions on the importance of a personal illustration style. It's odd going from writing my own to being interviewed for another in a matter of months. It makes me feel really happy and proud though. I love helping people and I love when students contact me for guidance. It's very flattering and if I can help, I will!

Have a lovely Friday and weekend! Abby x

An inspiring place to work..

2011-11-02T19:37:00.000Z

The bright colours, fancy ribbons, glistening packets. It always feels a bit like Christmas here. I work at Gorvett & Stone, a chocolate shop (and cafe on the side - BEST hot chocolate) supplying Fortnum & Mason and hand-making the most amazing chocolate. Ahh.. it's beautiful, I would recommend it to anyone with a sweet tooth!

I did an illustration of their chocolate fish and sent it in when I applied for the job. They loved it. I can only assume they employed me because of my cafe and selling experience (and charming nature!) and not because of this little 'bribe!'

Pattern Books..

2011-11-02T14:28:00.001Z

I think my book shelves need these pattern books. They're on my wish list, along with the others from my last book post, if anyone is keeping their eyes on that list!

I've bought a couple of the V&A Pattern books as presents in the past and they're beautiful - I want the whole collection for myself! Hopefully Christmas will bring me a couple!

A beautiful little commission

2011-11-01T18:13:00.000Z

After seeing some of my previous work, I was asked by Jo (@stillawake) to produce a very special birthday commission for the father of her beautiful baby! I was delighted to be asked. I was to illustrate him holding his little girl (using a very lovely photo!), a motorbike and a moped, together in panels. I found the bike's a little hard but I knew if I worked hard I would get there eventually! Jo loved the result, as did Martin. I'm so happy they liked the illustrations, I'm really happy with the final piece! I hope you like it too! (What do you think of my bike attempts?!)

If you would like to commission a little piece for a birthday, anniversary, Christmas or just because you want to, please do not hesitate to get in touch!

Bath in Fashion

2011-10-30T22:19:00.000Z

Recently the lovely Hels Martin asked me to illustrate the header for the Bath in Fashion Blog which she will be blogging for. The blog will include all news, interviews and reviews from Bath in Fashion, written beautifully by Helen. I'm looking forward to seeing more. Her writing always inspires me and I'm glad to be able to work with her again.

Wonderful pattern designer, Georgia Coote designed the background which is truly beautiful. I'm happy to be in such a creative team of ladies. I hope you like my design!

Digital Arts Tutorial

2011-10-21T17:08:00.001+01:00

Well, as promised, I have taken photographs of my tutorial for you to see! I've also taken a few of other images in the issue that grabbed my attention :)

Love this illustration by Minni Havas on the opening page! Also, nice to see Neil is still using my illustration of him for his editor's picture.

Contributor's page - Where do you draw the line?

Love this illustration by Rob Shields, another masterclass from this issue. His work is stunning and truly fascinating. It's great to read his tutorial.

I was commissioned to write a tutorial outlining the way I compose an illustration rather than the technical tools I use. I was asked to cover compositional elements, colour, placement of the character etc. Hopefully I achieved this and I hope their readers will enjoy reading about the decisions I make when putting together one of my illustrations - in the case one of the illustrations I produced for Company. You can buy yourself a copy in most newsagents (or WHSmiths!)

Digital Arts - Tutorial

2011-10-20T16:00:00.001+01:00

Just a quick post to tell you that I have written a tutorial for Digital Arts and it is out today!! I felt very honoured to be asked to do this for them - writing a tutorial, wow, I'm a real illustrator! (I never thought I would get to this point!)

The guys at Digital Arts have been very supportive of me from the beginning of my career - I can't thank them enough!

I will blog with photos from the tutorial tomorrow. For now, here is a little about this issue and the illustration below gives a clue to the tutorial subject! ;)

Lesley Barnes

2011-10-15T18:01:00.000+01:00

I mentioned in my Happy List post that I was feeling rather excited about a package on it's way from Lesley Barnes' shop! And today it's here! A wonderful and bright way to start the weekend! As I suspected, I was not at all disappointed. Her work is lively, bold, exciting and colourful. It always cheers me up and makes me want to get some more colour in my illustrations. In fact, I plan to do this. I was really happy with the colour in my Company illustrations and plan to keep this up! (Especially since these pieces were the ones that drew my agent to me!) Below is my lovely package!

I ordered a set of 4 bookmarks and Lesley was kind enough to send some little extras. I especially love the Two Face - happy/sad bookmark and the cat riding on the horse. So sweet! Lesley has been so kind and supportive to me and we both did work for the V&A for the same project (my first commission!) You should definitely have a look at her shop - these made my day!

Happy List

2011-10-14T18:49:00.022+01:00

Inspired by Fritha's post, I've decided to write a list of 10 things that are making me happy at the moment. I've been feeling a little homesick and down recently, so this seemed the perfect way to perk me up. I'm grateful for many things :)

Mat coming home from work. Instant perk, kisses on the nose, cuddles and warmth. Love.

Thinking about my illustration future. I believe I can do it more than ever!

Old family photographs. And new ones, especially these (best brothers & sisters)

Lesley Barnes' illustrations. I can't wait until my purchases from her shop arrive! They're beautiful!

Phonecalls from my mum. I miss her and cannot wait until she visits in a few weeks!

My Mac is finally going to be fixed tomorrow! I will miss it but at least I'll be able to see my screen again properly!

Twitter! And all the people on there. The illustration community is so lovely!

Drinking Pepsi Max and looking through my book collection! (See previous post)

The weekend. Two whole days to relax & enjoy with the boy. Perfect!

Living somewhere so beautiful! Having so much to explore and so many new things to see! (Not to mention all the beautiful old pubs!)

So there you are! I hope you enjoyed my list :) have a lovely weekend and I will post about Lesley's package when it arrives!

Book Case

2011-10-14T14:17:00.001+01:00

I love our book case. The colours, the diversity, the amount of books and the inspiration. (We have no room for more, a problem that quickly needs addressing since I have my eyes on at least 3 books!) I've been looking at some of the books I got in Japan today, they're so beautiful. I feel very inspired! Just wanted to show you some photos!

Mat's books! I love how tidy they look, and the mix of black and colour. Ahh lovely.

You may already realise, but this shelf is also full of Mat's books. I love the variety we have!

One of my favourite and most inspirational books is Wall Paper. It has some beautiful designs, including the ones below.

The first is by Rachel Kelly. I love the use of colour - the subtle against the vibrant. It works so well and really drew me in.

This one is by Florence Manlik. I love the different tones and the extremely fine lines. So intricate and detailed.


I was drawn to this piece by Destroy Rockcity because of the colours (I love the limited palette) and the boldness.

And here are a few books I am lusting after at the moment. As soon as I have more pennies, these will be mine, I promise.

Below are some of the pages from Print & Pattern 2. They look stunning, I can't wait to see the rest! Hurry up pay day!!

And I NEED this series of Penguin Cassics, illustrated by Coralie Bickford-Smith. I've had my eyes on them since I first saw them the year before last. My needs are getting greater. They are just stunning. Not only are the books themselves wonderful, but I think I'd feel so happy having these on my shelves and holding them in my hands. WISH LIST!

Photos & old work!

2011-10-11T22:03:00.001+01:00

I'm feeling quite nostalgic this evening. I've been looking through old family photographs and illustrations (from the second year of University, I believe). Just wanted to share some of them (I'm the smallest in every picture - ehe). I love old photographs. We didn't have a digital camera, so all these have been scanned in. I do love seeing them in an album though. I need to do this, it's too easy to view them on a computer. I like to feel them and love enjoying them with others - New Years Resolution perhaps!

(And a nice recent one - me and all my siblings)

I also found these old illustrations tonight. Yes, they're not my best but this is why I wanted to share them. I was young, working on my technique and excited about experimenting. I like that I can see how my work has developed since this.

Updates...

2011-10-07T17:01:00.001+01:00

Hello everybody! I hope you are all well and looking forward to the weekend! (I'm hoping the weather is sunny, even if it is cold - I really don't like rain). Firstly, you may have noticed I've made some adjustments to the blog layout and colouring. Basically, I wanted it to work well with my website. I like to have everything working together with a consistency. I also think it's a lot cleaner and sharper looking (hopefully it reflects my work more too!)

You may remember me showing you the little packs of work I was sending out a few weeks ago. Well, I was sending them to magazines, companies and a few agents that I really wanted to work with. And I now have some exciting news to share (you may have already seen this over on twitter), I have just signed an agreement with one of these agents!! Yes, I'm very excited and need to keep pinching myself. It's something I've been aiming towards for some time and I've always felt that having an agent would be the best way for me to go. Negotiations, fees & contracts make me nervous and I have no idea how to tackle them.. this along with their impressive list of clients, promotional work and international work drew me to them instantly! I'll let you know who my new agent is once all contracts are signed at their side. I hoped that having a few commissions behind me would give me an advantage, but I think in my heart I didn't believe anyone would want to sign me yet. They've given me an amazing opportunity, boosted my confident and got me excited about the future. (They may have some work in the pipeline already - one of their clients has shown interest!) I hope this is the start of something amazing!

Apparently it was the above piece that really drew them to me. It's one of my favourites too so I'm really glad they liked it!

I'll leave you with a little piece (in very early stages) I started the other week. I need to do more work on it and will keep you posted! Have a great weekend!

Company Pages

2011-09-23T17:41:00.000+01:00

I now have the images of the pages my illustrations can be seen on in Company High Street Edit. I was really pleased with the way they look on the pages, I hope you will like how they look too!

In other news, I had a meeting with a very lovely lady about a new ethical fashion venture today. Sounds very exciting, I will tell you more at a later date.

Company Illustrations!

2011-09-03T18:48:00.021+01:00

When I have images (proper ones, not my attempts!) of the magazine pages my illustrations are on, I will share them with you. For now, here are the illustrations! I hope you like them!

Fan Di Fendi - the brief for the fragrance story piece was to draw the girl that embodies the fragrance.

Victoriana at Pucci A/W11. Company's Fashion Editor says, "I'm also lusting after Victorian lace and ruffle-neck shirts."

Sheepskin at Isabel Marani A/W11. Fashion Director, Oonagh Brennan says: "It has to be the hottest trend in coats this season - the stylish, super-practical sheepskin! From belted feminine styles to give you shape to the cool oversized 'Bel Boy'"

This colour blocking piece was not used in the end, but I'm very pleased with it, so wanted to share! :)

Big brows at Stella McCartney A/W11.

C is for Colour Blocking (by Blugirl)

M is for Mod. "Think tartan, checks, studs and leopard print."

H is for Homespun. (Henry Holland) "Yes, that really is the blanket that used to be on the back of your granny's sofa. But thanks to Henry Holland, it's cool with a capital C.

Fellow Tea & Crayons members Fritha and Natasha also have illustrations in the fragrance feature! :) I hope you like them, thank you for your support everybody and a big thank you to Company Magazine and Art Director, Tanita Montgomery for allowing me to do this! :)

High Street Edit: Out Now!!

2011-09-02T16:45:00.001+01:00

In July, I entered Company's High Street Edit fashion illustration competition to be the sole illustrator for their next issue. I worked hard, made it to the final five but was not chosen as the winner. I was ecstatic when the beauty assistant contacted me and asked me to take part in a 'fragrance story' within the issue, and even further so when, on seeing my finished piece, I was contacted by the Art Director and asked if I would like to illustrate the whole issue after all!

I am so happy with the work I have produced and hope it will lead to some more exciting opportunities. Seeing the issue this morning was one of my proudest moments and tomorrow I will share the illustrations with you! I hope you get a chance to see it for yourself - I think they look best in print.

Fashion Africa

2011-09-02T11:58:00.005+01:00

A few months ago, I was commissioned by Jacqueline Shaw (founder of Africa Fashion Guide) to produce illustrations for her soon to be launched book, Fashion Africa. The book, set to engage people, is filled with wonderful African Fashion Design and illustration alike. Definitely worth buying!

I was so pleased to be asked to be involved, especially when the book has so many other wonderful illustrators. The designers I was asked to illustrate are incredible - bright, bold and exciting- and I hope my illustrations will do them justice. Made - beautiful fairtrade jewellery makers and Afro-Chique - beautiful bold designs created by Janice Morrison were the brands I was paired with. Do have a look at their work! The launch is happening on 9th September and should be wonderful! (the flyer features an illustration by the lovely Natsuki Otani).

Jacqueline said of the launch "It is an exciting event that will be a launch with a difference. Featuring a forum of professional speakers discussing the topic ethical fashion Africa and will do as I planned to do with the book and accompanying website - to engage people in this topic and create dialogue with industry professionals and stakeholders to source and produce more in Africa." I'm very proud to be involved!

You may have already seen some of my illustrations during my Degree Show posts - I am very proud of the work and cannot wait to see them in print. I hope you like them too! I also blogged about them during the illustration process. You can see them here, here and here! I know a few of my illustrator friends also have work in the book, and I think the whole book will be just wonderful, so if you are interested, please do buy a copy! Read Joana Faria's blog post about it here.

With this designer, Afro-Chique, I chose a fun and bold image to illustrate. I wanted to combine colour, texture and movement together in this image. I used a lot of negative space, allowing the viewer to imagine themselves wearing the clothing.

As with all my fashion illustrations, it was important that the design stood out from everything else, so I produced the images on very neutral backdrops. I'm really happy with the way they turned out and can't wait to see them in print amongst beautiful words, designs and other illustrations.

Goose!

2011-08-25T23:08:00.000+01:00

I've been wanting to do some drawings related to my new home for a few weeks now (well, since I got here, which was only about 5 weeks ago!) We've moved to Henley-On-Thames and it's just stunning. I want to draw the buildings, boats, everything! But firstly I have decided to draw the geese that fill the river and accompany me on every walk alongside it. Quite different from my usual work, but so far I'm really enjoying doing something different! It's unfinished but wanted to share some progress of my work so far..

I'll share the finished results as soon as it is done! In the meantime, have a wonderful bank holiday weekend!

Sewn envelopes and print packs!

2011-08-23T21:47:00.006+01:00

Hello! Just a little post to show you some photos of what I've been up to! I love doing crafty things and compiling lovely things. This week I've been sewing envelopes using card, thread and buttons (I have button collection that I love!) I'm sending out some work examples this week and wanted everything to look as nice and presentable as possible :)

Apart from that, this week I have been getting to grips with my new job as a chocolate adviser! Loving it and I get to be a perfectionist! (ribboning for posh companies!)

Sorry..

2011-08-10T13:28:00.000+01:00

Sorry I've been so quiet recently. I've been working very hard on some pieces for Company Magazine. I hope you'll like them, and here are some sneak peeks!

I hope everybody In Britain is safe and well (and those outside of Britain of course, but you get what I mean!). Love to you all!

New Work!

2011-07-26T10:41:00.000+01:00

Hi everybody! Firstly, I have many new followers so thank you so much! :) I'm sorry it's been so long since my last post, we've finally moved house and starting to get settled so I thought it was time to share some new work. This illustration was for my friend and Tea & Crayons member Fritha. She wanted me to illustrate her boyfriend, Tom, to give to him as a birthday present. I was so happy and honoured that she asked me! I hope he liked it, I'm really happy with the results!

This week I've been working on a commission for a magazine (involving a beautiful perfume sample!) and been busy making plans. I had a meeting for another commission last week that went brilliantly, so fingers crossed that will be finalised soon!

I also want to say a big thank you to the Tea and Crayons girls, who are not only incredibly talented, but amazing friends who have supported me and helped me through hard times. They're just great, I think you'll think so too!

Are you the next big thing in fashion illustration?

2011-07-09T19:10:00.000+01:00

This week I entered the Company High Street Edit competition to illustrate for their A/W issue. I produced two illustrations as well as sending three examples of my work. I'm really happy with them, especially since I found out late and illustrated them in just one night and day. I chose to illustrate some of Burberry's collection from their latest show. I love the colour of the coats in particular. Hope you like my illustrations and wish me luck!

Unleashed: The Best in the North

2011-07-02T23:32:00.000+01:00

Hello everyone! I have just returned from London after going along with my uni to New Blood. As well as meeting some great people at the private view and catching up with Neil Bennett, editor of Digital Arts, I also had the privilege of having a portfolio session with two lovely ladies from The Artworks Illustration Agency. They were incredibly complimentary about my work (one said my fashion illustrations were the best she'd seen! Wow) and gave me that extra boost I needed to help me make my dream become a reality. I feel confident again, which is just what I need as I'm about to move miles away from home and be thrown out of my comfort zone (I'm moving to just outside of London in about two weeks!). I will post some New Blood photographs soon!

I am also delighted to share that this illustration has been one of 22 shortlisted for Unleashed: The Best in the North competition! 'Open to all the Northern Art Schools. This competition is designed to showcase the talents of the best emerging illustrators.' You can read more about it here. I feel so happy about it, and I'm looking forward to the awards night and auction.

I can't imagine not doing illustration, I love it and I am passionate about it. I'm looking forward to doing some promotional pieces, entering competitions and being highly pro-active in my mission to have a career doing this!

Website!

2011-06-23T16:17:00.000+01:00

Firstly, I want to say a massive thank you to all my followers. You mean a lot and I now have 200 on my blog! That's amazing and I feel so proud :)

My boyfriend, Mat, has just been offered a job in Maidenhead so we shall be moving in two or three weeks! It's exciting bt crazy so I may not be posting here for a while. It'll be great to be so close to London though! Tomorrow I am going camping for a few days then on Thursday I'm heading to D&AD's New Blood - I'm really excited to meet people and promote myself!

So basically, I may not be able to post for a while! But I wanted to show you my updated website - I'm really happy to have i up and running, it still needs a few tweaks but for now, I'm happy!

I'll post again soon - maybe with my degree results! Scary!! :)

Degree Show: Framed Prints

2011-06-10T19:11:00.003+01:00

So it's a mixture of sadness and excitement at the moment. I'm sad to be leaving university - more because I will no longer be able to stroll into the studio and see my friends whenever I fancy. And no more shared space to (hopefully) get some wok done and advise one another. I feel lucky to have the Tea & Crayons girls to talk to and get this advice from still. It's so exciting to be free from any restrictions and to begin to establish myself as an illustrator further. I'm really excited to be attending the D&AD New Blood at the end of this month too. I will be there on the private view night to promote myself and my course mates to my best ability!

To raise a bit of money for getting to/staying in London for New Blood I'm going to sell my degree show framed prints! They're all signed and framed in good quality white frames. I'm selling them for £20 each (bargain!) but if you would like more than one I can do you a deal :) (also - if you would like a print without a frame do not hesitate to ask! I can make that happen!) Just leave a comment here or email me if you'd like to buy anything! :)

Sorry the images are not the best quality - click on the images to see the original illustration.

I've also just set up a new site for my work. I love that it is clean and very image based. The simplicity allows my work to the talking (I hope!).

Degree Show!

2011-06-05T21:18:00.001+01:00

On Friday my illustration degree show opening night finally arrived. With so much build up in preparation I was worried the night wouldn't live up to my expectations, but it definitely did! I had a fantastic evening - talking with old school teachers, meeting interested viewers, seeing our tutors proudness and enjoying the celebrations with my 13 coursemates who have become great friends. I can't believe it has come to an end. I'm excited and nervous for the future, it's going to be an interesting ride! Enjoy the photographs from the evening! :)

My display along with the beautiful dress by Bella Flo, who kindly allowed me to illustrate and display it. I was really happy with the way it looked alongside my work.

We each picked another member of the group to draw at random. It was a great way to show our work together and a lovely welcome!

The two above images show the incredible workings of Coren Macniven (these photographs are also her handiwork!)

The beautiful display by Rosie Wheeldon.

Etta Hawksworth's stunning display.

More fantastic illustrations - this time by the wonderful Florence Ravelle.

Beautiful display by Elizabeth Fortnum.

Friday Late at The V&A

2011-05-30T22:51:00.002+01:00

So, as you know, I went to the V&A on Friday to see my illustration being made into bags and see what the lovely curators of the Yohji Yamamoto exhibition had prepared! I've never felt so proud - seeing people carrying bags with my illustration. The night was amazing - met up with fellow Yohji illustrator Lesley Barnes and illustrator Thereza Rowe as well as spending the evening with fellow Tea & Crayon member Rachel Lewis. They all looked amazing and it's always a pleasure to meet illustrators whose work I love! I managed to make a couple of bags but they weren't perfect. Luckily they may be able to make me some more and send them to me! Amazing! :)

We of course went for a couple of drinks with Rachel afterwards! Fantastic night :)

Healthy Eating

2011-05-25T16:51:00.000+01:00

As a little side project for uni, just to show I can do more than draw fashion, I decided to produce some pieces for a healthy eating campaign. I've really wanted to work with food and text so this seemed a perfect excuse to combine both.

Basically my idea was to use children's quotes to promote eating 'five a day'. By working with the idea that children say the cutest things and the fact they don't know unless you teach them, I placed sweet things that children may say alongside images of the fruit. For instance, the first one says: "I love strawberry cheesecake. Is that one of my five a day?" and is placed next to strawberries. I think this campaign could be successful, because most people know a child so can relate to their sweet questions and it drives home that unless you teach people about healthy eating, they will never learn.

Anyway, take a look and see what you think! :) (p.s. I've used a logo from an existing campaign - it is not my own!)

Friday Late at The V&A: Yohji Yamamoto at Play

2011-05-24T20:52:00.001+01:00

Well, this Friday I will be in London visiting the V&A for their special Friday Late: Yohji Yamamoto event. I'm especially excited because they will be using one of my illustrations in their Ultimate Yohji Screenprinting Workshop! Visitors will be able to make their own screenprinted tote bags using one of four illustrations, including one of my own.

This commission has been wonderful and given me the extra confidence i've been needing! I love the V&A and always visit when I'm in London. I'm very proud and honoured to be asked to get involved with such a great project! If you are in London, do go and have a look! Here is what is on offer:

Activities

Couples Streetcasting for V&A Fashion in Motion
Outside the National Art Library18.30–21.30

Yohji VS Fashion History Stylist Battle
John Madejski Garden
Qualifiers at 20.00 and 20.30; Final at 21.00

Ultimate Yohji Screenprinting Workshop
John Madejski Garden
18.30–21.30

Cut Out/Stick On Fashion Workshop with David Poole
Morris Room, Café
18.30–21.30

Drawing from Yohji
Meet in Room 21a
18:45; 19:30; 20:15; 21:00 (sessions last approximately 30 minutes)

Cut & Haste: Create a Fashion Fanzine
Digital and Design Studios, Sackler Centre
18.30; 19.30 and 20.30 (sessions lasts approximately 30 minutes)

Talking to Yohji
Norfolk House Music Room
18.30–21.30

Sounds amazing doesn't it?! I can't wait and it comes the day after my work for the year is presented and marked, so I couldn't imagine a better time!! I will post pictures on my final degree show and the V&A trip soon! I hope you are all well :)

Bits and pieces

2011-05-16T21:17:00.001+01:00

Hi everybody, it's been a while since I posted but I've been very busy busy! I just wanted to drop by and let you know what I'm up to.

I have recently finished an illustration I was producing for the V & A, it is one of my favourite places and I was ecstatic when they contacted me! It is now in there hands and they will be preparing the screen ready for the Yohji Yamamoto at Play Friday Late Event. My illustration will be produced onto bags, I am very excited! I hope to be at the event and will come back with plenty of photographs!

Over the weekend me and my boyfriend went to stay with fellow Tea and Crayon member Fritha Strickland and her boy, Tom. We had a wonderful weekend, and our time spend at their house, their city and with their cats got me very excited about the future! :) We went shopping, had tea, watched some Eurovision and visited a gallery, perfect! I also got to meet up with Hels Martin, Avril Kelly and Emily Burt. A really lovely weekend. And I had to take some pics of Fritha's amazing cats! They're so cute! I love how grumpy Rockie looks :)

And now back home, I have my final degree show head on, finishing off pieces, printing my work and trying to make my area look good! I'm borrowing a stunning dress from Sophie, the owner and designer at a local boutique, Bella Flo. I am illustrating and displaying the piece next to my work. I think it will look really visually interesting and enable people to see how I take a design and create an illustration from it!

Here are my frames and work coming together! I can't wait to get the show up and bring you some pictures!!

Also, buy a copy of Digital Artist from this Thursday as Tea&Crayons will be in there! I hope your weekends have been just as lovely! :)

All things London

2011-04-28T23:58:00.000+01:00

Yesterday, my mum and I went down to London to visit the V&A, meet up with my sister and do a little light shopping! :)

The main reason for the visit was to view Yohji Yamamoto's exhibition. I'm doing a little (I say little, it's my first proper commission and I couldn't be more excited!) illustration and it was so wonderful to be able to see the clothes up close for once. They were stunning and I love being able to see that incredible detail! I will tell you more about the commission soon! Here are some photos of the pieces I was allowed to photograph :)

Here is my mum - we were messing about in the V&A cafe! Also a photo of some of the incredible Lion King costumes!

Next week I will be starting to send out the Tea & Crayons' packages which are now being put together and addressed! Working with these girls and getting to know them so well has been one of the best things I have ever done. These girls are so supportive and have been a massive help throughout these last months!

One last thing! Tomorrow is the royal wedding and I am suddenly overcome with excitement about the wedding dress! I've heard many rumours on twitter that Sarah Burton, creative director at Alexander McQueen may have designed the dress! I hope this is true, that would be incredible! I'm sure whoever it's by, however, it will be amazing. I will leave you with this picture of my mum and dad on their wedding day.. ah, perfect!

New illustrations..

2011-04-25T23:22:00.005+01:00

Hello! I've been very hard at work with fashion illustrations this week. I can't show any final illustrations (and the fact I have four unfinished ones on the go means I physically can't either) but here are some more sneak peaks! You can see my previous ones here and here :) these previous illustrations are beauty shots, so I have focused greatly on their faces and the jewelery. With these next illustrations, I want the clothes to be the main focal point. I will tell you more bout the designers behind the clothes when I can!

I hope you like them. They're turning out to be quite intricate pieces and my hands keep cramping.. I will push through the pain and hopefully the results will be worth it! I hope you've all had a fabulous weekend! :)

More beauty shot fashion illustration sneak peaks!

2011-04-22T18:47:00.000+01:00

I have started working on the second illustration of the set, as mentioned in my previous post.This one is for the same designer as before, but this time concentrating on a bracelet. Thank you for the lovely feedback on the previous post, it really means a lot!

Beauty shot fashion illustration - sneak peaks!

2011-04-20T23:35:00.003+01:00

I'm working on some new ethical fashion illustrations at the moment, to be published in an ethical fashion book. Here are some progress shots I though I would share! :)

I'll keep you updated! :)

EDIT! More progress!

Giveaway!!

2011-04-18T15:29:00.026+01:00

Before I get on to the exciting giveaway, I'd like to say a little about Tea & Crayons. With an interview in a monthly arts magazine being published soon (that's right, we'll be in actual print!) and our promotion packs about to be sent out (we are now finalising the 500 lucky recipients of our little gifts), things really are getting exciting. These girls are really keeping me optimistic and excited about life as an illustrator too. Be sure to follow us on either (or both!) our twitter or blog. We will be doing giveaways soon too, so definitely worth following! :)

Now, I've been meaning to do a giveaway since reaching the INCREDIBLE 1000 followers mark on twitter! (Im now at almost 1,00, which makes me a little speechless!) I wanted to do something as a little thank you to those who have supported, helped and made me smile throughout my months on twitter.

So, to enter my giveaway and the chance of winning three framed prints, a lot of sweeties, two original illustrations, some postcards and many other bits and pieces. Simply leave a comment under this post or/and tweet the following:

'To win prints, original illustrations, sweets and more, enter @abbyillustrator's giveaway, here: http://bit.ly/ebnWgy'

A tweet will count as an extra entry, so feel free to enter twice! The giveaway will run until midnight on Saturday 30th April. The winner will be drawn via a random number generator on the Sunday. Good luck and please spread the word! :)

Abby xx

Portfolio (for the time being...)

2011-04-16T22:23:00.005+01:00

I put together my most up-to-date portfolio this week. I wanted to produce a mock up for my uni presentation but I haven't had it printed yet because it will be changing again soon as I have lots of work on the go! At the moment it is mainly fashion based (I will have a mixed one but also pages ready for a more fashion focused and a more editorial focused portfolio depending on the work I am going for). I just thought I'd share these pages with you! Enjoy!

Working Practice

2011-04-07T21:40:00.005+01:00

As part of my professional practice unit at uni, I have to show my working practice and discuss how I go about creating my illustrations. I have put together some stages for this so thought I'd show them here too! :) this illustration was for a competition to have your image accompany an article by Lady Gaga. I wanted to use a head-shot image and have her looking smart in her role as a writer.

To begin with I draw a simple outline picture, allowing me to see all parts of the illustration come together and imagine the final outcome. I find I work most comfortably using photographs, which I try to take myself where possible (obviously, with someone like Gaga this is unlikely!)

The next stage is adding in finer detail. I enjoy zooming in to put these details together. After some of the detail has been refined, I will wok out the background.

Once the background texture is in place I can add even more detail and bring in those highlights and whites of the eyes that I think bring my illustrations alive and make them what they are. I loved adding in the glasses detail here as it made the image a lot more powerful.

Colour experimentation. I decided with this illustration that I wanted to use more colour in the background. Usually I stay with my style of using neutral tomes and textural backgrounds. This time around I wanted to add more colour but continue using the textures.

After adding the colour, I placed the original textured background over the colours and was happy with this compromise between my usual style and trying to experiment! Also in this stage I added colour and texture (texture from a tweed jacket scan) to her jacket, as well as colouring of the lips.

Again, I tried something new with the cheeks. Rather than my usual subtle and tonal colouring, I choose to use obvious and bright colours. I'm really happy with how it's turned out! These are my two final illustrations.

I hope you enjoyed this little run through! :)

Lady Gaga: Final Images

2011-04-03T23:47:00.000+01:00

Ok, I'm totally indecisive and even though many followers on twitter offered their opinions, they were pretty divided. So I decided to send both versions and if they like the image they can choose the background colour they'd prefer.

I love how the pink tones stand out against the grey in the first image. With the second image I tried something a little different with the colouring. I'm really happy with how these illustrations have worked out. My favourite part is the glasses and I'm also glad I decided to try something new with the cheeks, I think they work well! I hope you like them too :)

Lady Gaga

2011-04-03T10:19:00.001+01:00

So, a yesterday I found out about a competition to illustrate Lady Gaga. Basically, she is now a V Magazine columnist and rather than a photograph she wanted an illustrated image of herself to accompany her words. I thought it was worth a shot! I decided not only would she be fun to illustrate (crazy outfits, eyes etc!) but it would be great to have my work published again.

I'll show you the finished illustration later but here are some working images I thought I'd share with you! Hope you like them :)

The Lying Tongue - work in progress

2011-04-01T19:34:00.001+01:00

Last week I was given an article titled The Lying Tongue to illustrate by my tutor Domanic Li. He removed the accompanying illustration so I wouldn't be influenced (I'm glad about this. Once I see the original illustration I always find it hard to find fresh ideas..) Here are so progress shots of my illustration so far. The story extract is very descriptive and sets beautiful scenes. The part I chose to illustrate read:

"Using a rickety set of stepladders that I had found in a cupboard in the kitchen, I climbed to the top of the windows, took hold of my cloth and cleaning spray and started to attack the grime. Although my cloth got darker and darker, nothing seemed to be coming off the the surface of the glass. But finally a small, coin-shaped pocket of light shone through the window, growing and growing until the glass had cleaned and I could see outside."

It goes on to describe a narrow stretch of water, a bridge and gondolas. Although it does not say, I assume it is set in Italy, most probably Venice, due to words, buildings and features described. At first I was going to illustrate the dirty window with the scene outside shown centrally. I have kept to this plan, but added in the cleaners hand cleaning the window to really illustrate the scene. Let me know what you think so far!

Pinterest & Etsy

2011-03-30T18:44:00.003+01:00

My sister, Lucy, told me about Pinterest when I was talking about wanting a way to keep hold of ethical fashion designers/articles for research purposes. To be honest, as well as loving working online, this can only be eco-friendly? No excessive, expensive or time-consuming printing! If I'm going to be illustrating ethical fashion, why not practice living a little more ethically! (If doing it online is actual less eco-friendly, just keep that to yourself and don't burst my bubble! ;))

Anyway, I am absolutely in love with the site. It's so easy to use and such a fantastic way to keep tracks of other areas such as print, pattern, illustration, typography and recipe illustrations that I also love. If you would like to take a look at my boards just click here!

Screen shots from my 'Ethical Fashion' board.

Screen shots form my 'Typography' pages.

Screen shot from my 'Print and Pattern' board.

Screen shot form my 'Fashion Illustration' board.

Screen shot form my 'Illustration' board.

Do go and take a look. I would definitely recommend joining! (Although, like most things on the internet, it is a little addictive!)

Finally, I have placed my items for sale in my Etsy shop. It was closed for a while, but I have re-opened in an attempt to raise money for my final exhibition.

I'm working on some new illustrations which I will, of course, share as soon as they're done! Have a lovely evening! :)

Handmade by Emily

2011-03-28T23:48:00.001+01:00

You may have seen my inspiration posts on other illustrators whose works I love. However, it isn't just illustrators I draw inspiration from. I find writing, design, fashion as well as crafts.

Me and mum are hoping to start work on our own crafts soon. We have already begun collecting reclaimed clothes and materials, buttons, and many other crafting items. I can't wait to get started, as sewing and making in general is something I have always loved but never really taken further. I love making fancy dress items! (For instance, Bagpuss ears and Pikachu ears/tail!)

I love the work of Emily. She creates beautiful items which would enhance any home and make the perfect gifts! You can buy her work here. They are always so well made and she uses such beautiful materials! Here are some of my favourites!

I love the colour choices in this little scented or unscented mouse! It is made from cotton and felt and as each mouse is made separately you are guaranteed a unique piece!

Once again I love the unique qualities of each owl and find the design beautiful. They look so huggable!

I like collecting buttons and these are just gorgeous! They come in many colours, patterns and sizes and again, I love that each set is different from all the others. I also love Emily's packaging. Simple but beautiful.

How can you resist this little guy? I love the big ears, so cute! Anyway, I hope you like them too, I will be sharing some new illustrations soon but in the meantime do check out Emily's blog too! :)

London Fashion Week A/W 2011 Illustrated Menswear Day Round-Up

2011-03-25T17:54:00.000Z

Here is my last London Fashion Week illustration. My illustration for Astrid Anderson was really fun to produce. I loved the bright, extravagant colours and textures. You can read the Amelia's Magazine fashion show review here.

I love the colours of the clothes!! I tried something a little different with the background and foreground colouring.

Burst Magazine

2011-03-24T22:42:00.000Z

Some time ago I send in some work examples to Burst Magazine, in hope that they would choose to include me in one of their next issues.

Well, last week I received an email saying they would like to include me in their third issue. It's out now and you can download it here! This mixed media issue is full of many inspiring illustrators and many I had never seen before. It was great to learn about them. Here is my page and some of my favourites from the magazine!

Here is my page. I'm really happy with the way it looks. I really like how every page looks full and exciting.

I love Rosanna Geissler's work. It's so delicate and beautiful. I like how she works with such a wide range of subject matter. I really love her typography!

I really love Nicola Watson's sweet characters and I love her use of colour! She also has a great use of texture in her illustrations.