“I would describe the event as an all round fun time!”
Jess is a Graphic Designer who shares our love of fashion illustration and all things 90s! It’s always have a giggle to have her in the house. We asked her a few Qs…
So! Tell us a little bit about your creative journey and background.
Creativity has always been a part of my life, in one shape or form. I studied Art & Design in college and then went on to study Fashion Promotion at University. Both courses allowed me to be as creative as possible and this is where I started designing my own illustrations, inspired a lot by 90s and 00s popular culture. A year after I finished uni, I kind of stopped being creative outside my day to day job for various reasons but have recently started trying to do more creative hobbies at evenings and weekends.
Which Sketch Appeal events have you been to this year and what (if anything!) did you get out of them?
I have followed Sketchy Bitches on Instagram for a while now and have always wanted to attend one of their events as they looked like so much fun. I attended the Sketch Bitches Summer Sketchathon and the Fashion Week event. I was so excited to go because of not being really creative around that time. My favourite part of the events were being able to interact with the other creatives there by doing small ice breakers like drawing the person opposite you, which made me feel comfortable and at ease. I also enjoyed drawing in other people's style of work. Whether this was a known illustrator or the people at the event :)
In a few lines, how would you describe the experience to others?
I would describe the event as an all round fun time! In terms of drawing I like going to museums and life drawing events but I find illustration drawing my absolute fave. Sketchy bitches events inspire you to be bold and free-spirited with your designs. These events also bring together loads of creatives and you're encouraged to be interactive with one another.
Did it inspire you to draw more, or go to any other creative events?
I have been going to life drawing lessons and I've wanted to update my personal website for a while so that will be my next task haha
How does drawing make you feel, and has it played any part in improving your mental health?
It helps me focus on what I'm doing, being totally relaxed and in my own element. I feel like it really helps improve my mental health, especially in group creative activities, by being able to see what inspires others and how others can relate.
Favourite materials to draw with?
I love the use of bold colour and textures, I like using posca pens, gouache paints, fine liners..
Any cool artists or illustrators we should check out on Insta?
OMG there are soooo many creatives I love but here are just a few - @claire__ritchie @koketit @catlobo
Any other cool creative workshops or events you’d recommend?
Life drawing at the art room on Brick Lane
Any books you’d recommend people wanting to get creative and draw more in 2020?
I'm not too sure with books, but I love drawing from fashion magazines such as Vogue, Elle, ID etc
·All I want for Christmas is…
A roast dinner!
Favourite Christmas song?
My all time favourite – Wham! Last Christmas (the 6 minute version) haha