When and how did you first get into art/illustration?
I honestly cannot remember a specific time. I have always drawn, though the dream has changed. As a child I used to want to be a children’s book illustrator, as a teen as fashion illustrator and I guess that transition to being an adult starts to begin that process of individualism and opinions in your work. That is where I am at the moment I guess.
Did you always know you wanted to be an artist?
Yes and no. I knew, I always wanted to be doing something creative but I think at a younger age it was a more of a practical dream; an interior designer or a fabric designer but now I could not imagine following a brief.
Where did you study?
Chelsea college of art (textile design – I realised following a brief wasn’t for me after three years). And then Saint Martins College Of Art, studying Fashion Communication. My masters and the course was the toughest but best thing i’ve ever done.
Why the female nude?
It polarises people. I find it interesting (as I don’t) that people are uncomfortable with the naked form in particular the female body. It’s been so historically heavily restricted so for myself, the nude (or naked women) is about freedom, no judgement and no ownership.
Do you ever get bored of drawing the female form?
People ask me that a lot. No, I don’t think so. I don’t think I am yet saying what I want to say with it yet, so I will wait till I am exhausted by it all and then move on.
How did your new book ‘Body’ come about? Is it something you’ve always wanted to do?
I’ve always wanted to make a book but the main challenge was to work with someone, especially my boyfriend. I think we wanted to find a way to work together but wasn’t sure just how. Kirk started working in film photography and taking pictures for me and from there I asked if he could start taking pictures I could interpret for my work. From there the idea came together to be a conversation between myself and him and our two ways of working. If you weren’t an artist, what would you do. I have no idea. I don’t think there ever was another option.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Everywhere, although I am a guilty insta trawler so there is a lot in there when it comes to looking for inspiration.
What does jewellery mean to you?
I remember as a child that it makes you feel very grown up but to this day I still feel like that when I put it on. And a bit naked without it.
What’s your favourite piece of jewellery?
Silver, gold or do you mix it up?
Gold. Always.
What new things are you working on for 2019?
A few collaborations and projects but it’s all shhh for now.
