Position Statement

During this past year I have identified my practice and have developed a strong direction. I feel that I am a self-motivated illustrator and designer with a passion for colour, line, pattern, shape and subtle texture. Drawing inspiration from nature, animals and food, working in both analogue and digital media to produce a large breadth of work suitable for a range of clients. I have developed a strong interested in packaging, products and connecting these to the promotion of socially responsible causes.

Through my progression I have come to realise my strengths and weaknesses. I consider illustrating scenes for publication to not be a preferred area of focus. However, recently I have seen a quality within my work that consists of motifs.

I have identified two halves to my practice. The first focuses on product and packaging through an exploration into merchandise, stationary and product range. Within this I have shown a strong interest in pattern and applied illustration. The second half of my practice demonstrates the educational aspect of my work, whereby I produce designs with the aim to tackle societal issues. I often form a link between my two areas of interest through the means of creating merchandise to engage people in educational projects.

Initially when I leave University I am going to be continuing with my project with Natural England and Leeds University where I will be producing work that focuses on both my interest in merchandise and societal issues.

My career goal is to produce work for both nationally and internationally established clients within the areas that I have stated. I hope to have a well-recognised tone of voice that is of high quality, and that I can produce work that is individual and unique compared to other practitioners.

Food illustration has become a large part of my practice and I intend to take this further through both sides of my work as well as the editorial area of illustration.

Speaking in terms of my interest in merchandise, my ultimate goal is to own my own brand, selling products such as prints, giftware and homeware, all showcasing my designs. To further my practice, I believe it would be of great benefit if I gain experience within a business that focuses within this area.