What made you choose to become an artist?

I’m autistic and I have also battled severe mental health difficulties. At one point when I was very poorly, it was pointed out to me that I still make artwork when I’m my most unwell. This gave me that spark of hope that I had something that I could maintain alongside my disabilities and differences. From that point on, I was supported to join community arts workshops to build up my skills and confidence in creating. The workshop facilitators in turn encouraged me to get a formal arts education and that’s how I ended up studying for my degree in illustration. 

Who are your biggest artistic influences?

Graphic novelists that share their health stories such as Una, Katie Green and Sarah Lippett. They showed me how sharing your experiences can help others and support changes in services and public understanding. I also like illustrators that support fun learning and education. Artists like Tony De Saulles who illustrated the Horrible Science books, or James Chapman who uses his illustrations to share curious language differences from around the world.

I also have to mention my maternal grandma. She let me play with her paints from a very young age and has always enthusiastically encouraged me in my artistic endeavours. Her house has the biggest permanent exhibition of my artwork on display down her hallway!

Tell me about your favourite medium.

I feel a bit wrong saying that my favourite medium is my iPad, but I just love how I can draw and animate on my lap anytime and anywhere! 

Where do you find inspiration?

I think I am inspired most by random facts, humour, animals, everyday situations and interactions, my lived experiences and languages.

When is your favourite time of day to create?

If I’m out making in the studio I like to be done before it gets dark because it’s a lot nicer crafting in natural light. However, if I’m on my iPad I sit on the sofa in front of the television and I can stay there all day long!

Do you have a creative space in which to make your art?

I have my art studio which is where I make and craft. It’s my own space just for me and it makes me very happy 🙂 I’m very lucky to have a dedicated space to work in. 

What motivates you to create?

Overflowing with ideas and if I don’t get them out I get overwhelmed! 

How do you define success as an artist?

When art is your profession, of course you need to make enough money from it to live off and if you can make a living from it that is a success. But for me it’s super important that I’m also enjoying my work and feel proud of each new milestone I reach. Whether that’s increasing my skills, navigating self-employment, a new sale or simply managing to get an idea onto paper – these are all successes to celebrate. 

Does art help you in other areas of your life?

Oh yes. It helps me communicate. It helps as catharsis for my mental health and my autism. It helps me connect to people and share joy. Art is so wonderfully powerful and my life would look entirely different without it.

How do you develop your art skills?

Keep practicing. Keep experimenting. Attend other artists’ classes and workshops. And enjoy the curiosity and excitement of a new medium or tool!

What is the best thing you’ve achieved with your art?

I’m most proud of illustrating my grandad’s story ‘Three Elephants and a Goat’, and helping him get published before his passing.

And lastly, for a bit of fun, can you reveal 5 random facts about yourself that people wouldn’t expect?

• I used to have pet flesh eating beetles. At one point I had over 1000 of them!
• I love being able to play musical instruments and read music. I play flute and saxophone, and I’m also learning the trumpet.
• I’m a proud bunny mummy. I have 2 rescue house rabbits that free roam.
• I can whistle VERY LOUDLY through my fingers!
• I have almost 50 very colourful tattoos.