What brought you to illustration?
I have been drawing and painting since I was a small child. My dad was also an artist and I believe that along with my love of cartoons is what sparked my interest early on.
"the least motion which they made"
What does a typical work day look like for you?
I spend most days printing/packaging art print and greeting card orders. On slower days, I get to paint and draw. Recently, I joined a ceramics studio and try to find time to work with clay when I can.
Are there any illustrators who influenced/influence you?
I love the work of Shaun Tan, Edward Gorey, Jim Henson, Theodor Geisel, Michael Sowa, Maurice Sendak, Quint Buchholtz and Jon Klassen.
"seeking to loom"
What was your very first illustration?
I don’t quite remember, but it was probably a dog or a monster as they have always been close to my heart.
What inspires you? Where do you get your ideas from?
Books, memories, movies, music, nature and poetry.
Do you have a favourite illustrator/artist/author?
All of the artists previously mentioned.
“dust light trifles in the new unknown“
Do you like listening to music or audio books while working or do you prefer silence?
Both music and audio books.
Do you have a favourite place to work?
In my home studio.
“all the signs converged“
Is there a particular story you would love to illustrate?
I am currently working on illustrating a children’s book that I wrote about a dream world inhabited by many strange creatures.
“before the ashes scatter"
What was your favourite illustration you have made so far?
I love the illustration I created for a gallery show a few years back entitled “Before the Ashes Scatter”.
What can you be found doing when your are not illustrating?
Reading, gardening and hiking with my husband and dog.
"the new which no one knows"
What makes the art of illustrating special to you?
I love that illustration offers a world to escape into. I find great comfort and wisdom in the creatures I create.
What makes a good illustrator?
I'm not sure if I can say, but I am drawn to works that come from the heart rather than a digital source or AI. I adore seeing the wobble of a painter’s line or eraser marks in a drawing. Flaws and imperfections are what makes art beautiful and unique to me.
"memories from the future"
Do you struggle sometimes? Do you have to motivate yourself, and if so, what helps? Is there a kind of "illustrator’s block?"
Yes! I find that stepping away to take a walk through my neighborhood or to look at other artists' work both help to pull me out of a block.