Dreamy Watercolours with Bee

Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

Hello! Today we have Bee who makes some pretty amazing watercolour work. I really like her consistency in creating different pictures, but all with the same colourful and slightly ethereal quality. Her work was so captivating that I had to ask her a few questions about her creative process and how she works on her dreamy art! Her pastel themed and sparkly landscapes are just a watercolour dream. She also posts videos of her art process on Youtube.

Read on to hear what she has to say.


Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Bee, and I am 19 years old from South Australia. Currently I am a full time uni student and I work two part time jobs. I have always been creative since I can remember. I remember when I was little I was always creating things with paper and glue, trying to sew, knitting and crocheting. My mother always sewed my dance costumes so I can say I was highly inspired by her to make art a big part of my life.

Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

What sparked your interest in art in general? How long have you been practicing?

Hmm, I find art very emotional. The mixing and blending of colours, and how mistakes can creatively be turned into blessings. The way of art is symbolic for me, in a way of living a happy life. I have been painting with watercolours for about 3 years now; I have fallen in love with the way that the colours spread and blend into each other in a calm and peaceful way.
Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

How do you interpret the presence and significance of art in your lifestyle?

My lifestyle is very busy, but at the same time a little lazy (because I get so tired!). I have to try and juggle two jobs and a full time course, plus time with my other half, family, friends, and other lifestyle choices like working out at the gym. As a natural and intense introvert, these activities can be insanely overwhelming and I will need to spend a lot of time on my own – and this is where painting comes in! Painting allows me to spend time with myself and relax easily. It gives a great balance to my life because its something I really love doing and I can just chill out.
Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

What is your general process while creating an art piece?

I start by making sure I have enough paper to paint a lot of pictures at once. I also love getting my pet cockatiel out so he can sit on my shoulder while I paint. I start by painting the ideas I have with masking fluid, setting them aside to dry, and then I start on my more colourful pieces. I tape the borders of about 4 pieces of paper at once. I find working on more than one painting at a time allows the others to dry, and at the end I have lots of paintings.

Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

For watercolour I like to work in layers, I start by setting a background colour and making sure that I use lots of water! I let that dry and I add more paints, layering them up. I will use black watercolour with less water for trees or other details. Then I use a toothbrush and white acrylic paint to spray a ‘starry’ layer.

What keeps you motivated to draw and paint?

Probably the satisfaction and self worth that my finish products make me feel. Looking at my art allows me to appreciate myself and appreciate my talent. My other half also motivates me a lot, especially when I am feeling lazy! Haha. I also get a lot of positive feedback from my valued followers on Instagram, which makes me want to paint more.

Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

How much time on average does it take you to create a piece?

Well I work on many at a time, but separately I would guess around half hour to an hour for each piece.

 

What was the first (or your favourite) piece of art you remember creating?

Okay so, very first, when I was in pre-school we had those tripod painting stands (obviously very short because we were so small!). We were given spray bottles which had different colours of translucent ink that had been watered down. The colours were so vibrant and so beautiful when sprayed and I remember I was the first to create the ‘butterfly’ pictures by folding them in half. I was so proud because everyone wanted to do the same!

 

Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

Do you plan to pursue a career in art? Or is art just a hobby you love?

I love sewing and fashion was going to be a huge career decision for me. However, to get the most and highest possibility of a successful career out of it, I would have had to move away from family and start in a completely new city. Art is just a hobby I really love, like I mentioned before, it gives my life balance from all the other things.

Can you share a glimpse of a typical day in your life?

Sure, go to sleep at 2am, have some funky dreams, wake up at 10am. Skip breakfast in a desperate rush to get to uni, get in my car and endure a stressful 35 minute drive. Buy some lunch, sit through lectures, rush home to get ready for work. Work a stressful waitress job, come home by midnight, spend time with my bird Charlie, go to sleep at 2am.

It sounds so boring! I do get a couple of days away from uni though, but when I have a whole day free of uni and my jobs, I will spend the entire day painting.

Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

Whats your outfit staple? And your favourite flower and colour?

Outfit staple would have to be anything black with a pop of colour/sparkles. I don’t know why but I really love wearing black in all styles, whether it’s formal, party, or one of my favourites: sports luxe. I swear I’m not goth! Haha.

I love all flowers, but I especially love peonies and carnations. My favourite colours are all shades of pink, and mint green.

Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

I spy a cockatiel! 

His name is Charlie, born November 2014. He enjoys head scratches and inspecting jewellery and other shiny things 😂. I hand reared him from a very young age and weaned him myself, which in turn gives us a stronger bond because he sees me as his true ‘mother’. Birds are very adaptable to their owners so Charlie knows that he spends most time with me late at night (since I work a night job). Oppositely, my friends cockatiel goes to sleep as soon as it gets dark because he has adapted to his owners life. Charlie is happy to just sit on my shoulder while I paint 😊

 

What are some fun themes/topics that are inspiring you nowadays?

I love painting scenes. I remember I used to binge watch anime, and Toradora was one of my favourites. The scenes (especially snow ones) gave me a special feeling, warm but calm. I try to go for this feel in my paintings.

Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

What is your favourite art tool you use?

Hands down masking fluid.

 

Could you share any tips on how to be good at watercolour?

Be generous with how much water you use. A lot of people don’t use enough water! Make sure to let things completely dry before you add layers of depth. I always remember that with watercolour, you can paint dark on lighter colours, but you can’t paint light on dark (however you can paint light on dark effectively with gouache!)

 

What do you think makes a good, satisfactory piece?

Being able to feel the emotions that the painting exhibits is a good sign. I also think a good border really puts someone at ease when looking at a piece of art.

Dreamy Watercolours with Bee - an artist's interview via Opinion9.com

 

Thanks Bee for sharing! Wishing you all the best ahead in your dreamy, ethereal world of watercolour! -Aaria

..

You can find Bee on her instagram here.

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Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

Hello! For this edition of the Inspiration series, we have Susan Purnell and her wonderful art. They say artists are multi talented, and Susan is no exception. She paints, draws, plays guitar, writes songs, and is just an all-round inspiration. Her work evokes nature and has a mysterious vibe to it- which makes it all the more intriguing. The best part that I liked most about her work is that – it’s strong yet intricate and it’s armed with hidden compassion at the same time – echoing Susan herself. I’m excited to feature Susan and her work today- read on to hear her take on life, creativity and more!

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Susan Purnell and I’m an artist from the Gold Coast Australia. My first love has always been drawing, and in particular – portraits. I have always been obsessed with trying to weave the natural world into my drawings, in an attempt to reconnect nature and humanity in some way.

Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

What sparked your interest in art in general? How long have you been practicing?

I really can’t remember a time that I wasn’t making art. My first memory of making art would be at the age of 5. I was equally freaked out and in love with the illustrations in The Brothers Grimm Fairy Tale Books. I would sit for hours on end drawing the characters from the books. It wasn’t until late in high school that I started to take my art practice more seriously. I then went on to study a Bachelor of Visual Arts, but to my surprise I focused mostly on photography and performance art and abandoned my drawing and painting practice for many years after. It wasn’t until 2008 when I experienced a life changing cancer diagnosis, that I turned to my drawing again as a way of healing.

Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

How do you interpret the presence and significance of art (drawing and music) in your lifestyle?

My art and music are such an important part of my life. It sounds so cliche’ but it is honestly just like breathing to me. If I can’t make art everyday I feel like something is missing in my life.

Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

What are your musical interests and what instruments do you play?

I love playing acoustic guitar and writing my own songs. I often bounce between making art and writing music, but to me they are really the same creative expression. My dream is to one day soon have an exhibition where I can perform my music alongside my artwork, kind of like performing the soundtrack to my art. I am really inspired by many people, but particularly my husband Luke. He is a guitarist in Byron Bay band Dawn Patrol. Each and every day his music and talent takes my breath away.

Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

What is your general process while creating an art piece?

Creative inspiration often arrises during my daily meditation practice. Meditation allows for me to clear my mind and lets imagery and inspiration come through more easily. Once I have an idea I want to explore, I then ritualistically make a pot of green tea, and have some good music playing. I then search through books, photographs or magazines to find a model for my artwork. I tend to then jump straight in and start sketching the eyes, I have always found that if the eyes feel right then the rest of the artwork usually comes together by itself. Once I have completed the portrait, I will then use watercolours or even tea to stain certain areas and then I will start weaving elements of nature throughout the portrait.

 

What keeps you motivated to draw?

I think researching other artists is a fantastic way to keep motivated. I am constantly blown away and inspired by the endless pool of talented artists out there.

Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

How much time on an average does it take to create a piece?

My earlier pieces would take anywhere from 1 month to 6 months to complete. But lately my pieces take around 5 days to finish.

Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

Just out of interest, what was the first (or your favourite ) piece of art you remember creating?

My favourite artwork would have to be one of the pieces I created during my cancer journey called ‘what’s new is old’ I spent many days at home and in hospital working on this piece so it is very close to my heart.

 

What do you do in your free time (when not drawing)?

I am usually at the beach, or searching through vintage shops.Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

Is art just a hobby you love or your profession in particular?

I have been lucky enough to work professionally as an artist for a large company. After a long break, I am now building my own practice professionally.

 

Inspiring Art with Susan PurnellCan you share a glimpse of a typical day in your life?

Almost everyday I wake up at sunrise, and start my day with yoga and meditation. This practice really helps ground and centre me for the day ahead. I then hang out in my studio for a couple of hours and work on my art. Most afternoons and evenings I usually spend time walking my 2 dogs, playing guitar, and spending time with my husband.

 

Just for fun: what’s your outfit staple and flower and why?

I would say my outfit staple is chunky turquoise and lapis jewellery, and comfy sandals. I am in love with Daisies, but I am really loving all things Australian lately, particularly the beautiful Banksia.

What are some themes/topics that are inspiring you nowadays?

I am really inspired these days to try and live my life more honestly, compassionately and creatively. I am inspired by people like Eckhart Tolle, Ram Dass and George Harrison. I am also a huge animal lover and am very passionate about living a healthy vegetarian lifestyle.Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

What are some of your favourite art supplies and art media you use?

I love so many different art supplies! Because I work traditionally, my go to favourites are Arches Watercolour Paper, Faber-Castell and Prismacolor pencils. I also love having a few Posca Pens around for fine line work.

Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

I love your take on art! Could you share any tips for aspiring artists who want to make original and distinctive drawings?

Thank you! I would say find that one thing you love creating the most and get obsessive about it. Create it over and over, and somewhere amongst the creative obsession your original style emerges naturally. Don’t be afraid to try new things and fail too. It’s all part of the journey and for me personally, the things I thought I failed at have become part of my original style.

Inspiring Art with Susan Purnell

What do you think makes a good, satisfactory piece of art (which the artist feels happy about the end result)?

Ooh! That’s a tough one. I think it really depends on the artist and the goal of the artwork. But for me personally, I think a great artwork is simply all about the emotion it evokes.

Thanks, Susan, for giving us a glimpse in your creative process! Wishing you all the best ahead! -Aaria : )

Find Susan and her beautiful artwork on her website and follow her on Instagram to stay updated on what she draws/paints/sings/strums next!

 

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Life and Art with Li Ching

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

There’s something so lovely about a hobby! It gives you direction, it gives you a better perspective of life- and it helps you enjoy yourself even more! That’s what we’re discussing on the Inspiration feature today.

Li Ching makes some beautiful artwork- and what I especially love about it is, she makes art for herself. It’s rare to find people who do things not to please others, but to make themselves happy. You can see this reflected in all her work- be it her intricate pen work, or her free watercolour style! She incorporates so much art in her life- and that’s uncommon these days. Both her work and her inspiration are priceless.

Read on to hear what she has to say!

Please tell me a little bit about yourself.

I’m Li Ching (Lich or Leach for short) I’m 43. In my last job, I was a Gemologist based in Bangkok, Thailand. I specialised in grading and appraising coloured gems. When my family relocated back to Singapore, I became a SAHM. I’ve always loved art, but it was only this year, with more time on my hands, that I started to draw more productively again.

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9(Love the koi fish!)

I love both your pen work as well as your watercolours! Do you usually practice one type of art for a long period of time, or do you alternate between different art forms regularly?

I am self taught. I’ve had no formal instruction, but because I sat for Art exams at GSCE O and A levels – I’ve had experience in everything from collage to pastels to charcoal…In the end, I keep going back to pen work. What’s new is my newfound love for watercolours!Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

What makes you happiest in your creative process?

This question is so hard! I like when a piece just grows as I work on it. I’m not the best with planning…sometimes the art develops on its own. When it works out, I’m always amazed (that I didn’t screw up). I also feel glad when people identify with what I draw. Or if they feel something when they look at it. Someone just told me my work made her feel happy. I mean, wow..that was a revelation to me. I was flattered and I was moved.

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

You seem to be inspired by books and nature, from looking at your work! Can you describe in detail what inspires you as potential drawing topics?

I love books! When I was younger, I would read the classics and poetry. Now, I prefer fantasy and fairytales. I particularly enjoy A.S.Byatt and C.S.Lewis.  I don’t have very much time to read these days. You could say I’m painting from memory…

As an English-speaking Chinese in multiracial Singapore, I think I subconsciously try to compensate for my lack of “Chinese-ness” through art.  I studied under a famous Chinese artist for half a year, but my work still looked too graphic and western. I don’t fight it now! Instead, I incorporate oriental elements, symbols and rebus, into some of my pieces.

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

(Some of Li’s amazing pen work- inspired by books! Bet you can guess which ones..)

What is your usual process for illustrating a piece?

I don’t have a fixed process when I draw. It’s all rather arbitrary. I decide what size of drawing I’m going to do then simply start. Even if I do a preliminary sketch, I may change my mind mid way. Sometimes I make a plan in my head. But if my gut says something, I tend to listen. I really believe that the key to painting a good piece of art, is knowing when to stop.

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

How do you balance your creative pursuits as well as your regular life duties?

I’m a full time mom and a part time artist. A lot of articles talk about balance..But I feel it’s a zero sum game. You cannot have more of one without having less of the other. My kids will (usually lol) come first. I set aside my mornings and selected afternoons for myself. It’s an indulgence for me, not a career. Maybe when the kids leave for college…T-T

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

(I love how Li encourages her children too! Can you guess which one of these three is made by her daughter?)

What are some of your favourite art supplies you use?

I prefer Copic Multiliners for my pen work. I also use Copic color markers, Derwent Coloursoft and Artist color pencils.  For watercolors, I use Daler Rowney Aquafine & Artists, Winsor and Newton Professional and Schmincke Horadam. Most of my paper is Daler Rowney and Arches. While I have several Raphael Kolinsky sable brushes, the majority of my other brushes are just regular brushes.

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9(Li’s lovely creative space. I love the wallpaper there! And of course, the art materials and the art too!)

What inspires you to keep illustrating?

I worked many years in HR, Internal Audit and Gemology. As far as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to draw seriously and I’ve never gotten the chance, not even Art lessons.  That’s why “endorsement” is really important to me. I’m elated when people, especially artists, tell me they like my work. Fundamentally, it’s insecurity, rather than narcissism. I want to believe I can, and that’s why I keep drawing.

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9You have a lovely Etsy shop! What motivated you to start a little creative business?

I just had extra time on my hands and wanted to give it a go. I’m embarrassed to admit that I haven’t been very serious about it…But I’m thinking of really getting down to listing more art.

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9How long have you been drawing? Just out of interest, what was the first thing you remember drawing that made an impact to you?

Oh forever! Since I could remember… 🙂 I recall being so profoundly affected by criticism that I would deliberately leave my paintings unsigned so I could deny responsibility. Once, I brought one particular piece to an established framer to be framed. This was someone who had seen thousands of paintings. When she asked me, “did you paint this?” I wanted to say “NO!”

She said, “You must sign it. It’s important you own it”. She never said if it was good or not. But just like that, she helped me understand that just like everything else, you can’t please everyone. If your work appeals to some people, great. If not, own it anyway. Here’s the artwork in particular. Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Do you have any advice for artists out there?

Don’t stop learning!

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Just for fun: what’s your favourite food, colour and flower?

Malay satay! No, I don’t have a favorite colour! It’s like asking me which note I prefer. They need to go together right? I love orchids! We’ve always had them at home, planted in pots. I especially like the small varieties.

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9

Life and Art with Li Ching via Opinion9Thanks, Li, for sharing a little glimpse into your creativity! Wishing you all the best ahead! -Aaria 🙂

Find Li’s work on Etsy and keep up with her art journey on Instagram.

 

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Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

Hello! Today on the Inspiration series, we have Charlotte Lloyd, the creative mind behind Charles of Lloyd. She creates the most colourful and quirky designs on home ware- and these vibrant patterns and tropical vibes can definitely brighten up any room! When I saw her website, I had to contact her to get some insight on her colourful process! She’s persistent and a real go-getter.

I like her distinctive pieces and more than that, I was just impressed by her whole outlook on finding inspiration, her can do attitude and her methodical routine- to create such a varied range of colours and patterns. Read on to hear what she has to say!

Please tell me a little bit about yourself. 

My name is Charlotte Lloyd; I am the founder and designer behind ‘Charles of Lloyd’, which is a London based homeware brand. I am a self-taught textiles designer. In 2012, I left a career in fashion and licensing to pursue my love for pattern. I create fun, vibrant textiles prints that aim to raise a smile and project a positive approach to design.

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

A little insight on your company name ‘Charles of Lloyd’?

It’s a bit of a spin on my actual name and a nickname that had been thrown around in the past. Having a very British surname really helped to play on the formal nature of the brand name and give it a sense of heritage. It gives the impression there is a rich history as it almost sounds a bit regal, but in essence its sums up the history of my family history, journey and making.

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

I love your colourful creations on cushions and bags! Do you have a particular theme for each batch of design you dream up? Is it planned or more spontaneous?

Thank you! Well I am on the cusp of launching my second range and while I’m still learning where my comfort zone is in the design process, I don’t think the learning ever stops. My initial range was very off the cuff and around images and subjects that at the time were of interest. There were various designs that were so well received I have put a twist on them to carry them forward into the new line.  The second range was more around  tropical summer feel, based on the time of year it was launching to hit spring/summer trade shows.

They all begin with doodles and lots of magazine clipping to make colour pallets from. While I have only just launched the second range, I already have a plan around a colour palette of primary colours for the next range. I’d say a lot of the early planning is around colour rather then print, but in the excitement it’s easy to deviate!

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

What was the hardest (and easiest) part while starting your business?

For me, I was starting a business whilst learning a trade at the same time. I had a very real gut feeling that this was something I had to explore, but had to juggle this learning along side paid work to get to a point where it felt like a real possibility – rather then an experiment. I think research is key and you should feel confident in asking as many experienced people for pointers, help and suggestions as that can save you months.

The hardest part is to keep going. It can be very testing running a business. I’d advise surrounding yourself with the positive people in your life. I also read a lot of designer interviews that inspire me to keep going on things like design files, design sponge etc. They are priceless.

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

What makes you the happiest in your creative process?

When I get samples and fabric back. It’s like Christmas when you see your design become a real tangible thing. It’s always so nerve racking as well, but that’s what makes you feel alive and kicking right? Hearing that someone likes something you have made is always a lovely feeling too. It’s those little memos that really do keep you chipping away at it. I see Charles of Lloyd as a bit of a left field brand. It’s a bit bonkers and playful, so to know there are people that relate means it’s resonating with strangers. What’s not to love about that!

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

Could you give us a glimpse in a typical day at work?

-Wake up at 8 with a fair idea of my jobs list for the day having thought about it before bed. Scan my emails on my phone so I know of anything vital.

-Make a nice juice as we just got an exciting juicer (nerdy i know) or my boyfriend and I walk to ‘Expresso Hut’ on Chatsworth road. Best coffee going FYI!

-Mornings -10 – 1 – The days can be really varied from shooting new products for the website (to get the best morning light), fulfilling and packing orders, answering emails, giving comments on samples. Only yesterday, I got asked to look at making some bags for a wedding in LA, so my inbox often has some really fun surprise projects in store. I also just started trading on Not on the High Street so I am waiting to see how this will effect the admin element of my day.

-Have lunch around 1-2. I live just off the vibrant Chatsworth road in Hackney, so there are always great places to grab a snack or get supplies to cook at home. My boyfriend is the chef in our home so he tends to whip something fab up to keep us going as we both work from home.

-Afternoons can entail the more admin based stuff like –  revising pricing, working on the website, researching or visiting new suppliers, trade shows, shops, or visiting workshops etc.

-Generally we finish up about 6/7 and try and consciously close the door on the studio. But it’s never that simple and can often be a late one. Some days I will try and fit in a swim or a coffee with a friend to break it up.

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

What qualities are needed to keep up and also enjoy running a creative business?

Perseverance definitely, you need a really strong mind to keep going. There will be lots of exciting little things that lift you up but they fade. You need focus to keep pushing through to the next big milestone. Passion is essential; as without that unconditional need to do what you are doing – it will be harder to keep going. Organisation is also key. Working with people requires the ability to make your interaction with them as easy and effortless as possible. Make peoples’ lives easy by being organised.

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd


Where do you see yourself in a few years?

I’ve been in London for 12 years now so I think a move to the seaside is in the works. I am also about to train as an upholsterer as an additional leg to my business. So in 2 years, I would hope to be running this arm of my practice – offering my fabrics across an array of beautiful vintage chairs and items.

 

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

What inspires you the most?

My inspiration in terms of designing fabrics really comes from all over the place: from exhibitions, photographs, magazine tear outs for colour palletes, charity shops for vintage fabrics and car boot finds. Its just about being open-minded every time you leave your front door and being equipped to document it whether it’s in notes, photographs or rubbings. I spend a lot of time on Pinterest and Instagram but find this can be detrimental – as it can overwhelm as well.

I also absolutely dig all the amazing African church goers in East London. Every weekend, I see the most insanely beautiful fabrics and colour combinations. Head to toe pattern in every colour under the sun! It makes me feel the way I hope Charles of Lloyd makes people feel. I’d love to do a shoot one day with a selection of these women using COL fabrics. A lot of the fabric they wear is Vlisco – which is a Dutch printer with a rich history in producing these wax fabrics.

Colours + Patterns with Charles of LloydWhat tools do you work with to create your illustrations?

Various types of black ink pens, charcoal, paints and a good sketch book. I either import various marks, doodles and scans into photoshop to construct my prints in layers on screen or do some designing in Illustrator. I also do a bit of hand printing and this is mainly drawing directly onto tracing paper in individual layers, they are then exposed and built up directly onto fabrics using screen printing.

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

What present would you like to receive? (any occasion!)

Hmm, that’s a tough one! I don’t generally have items or things that I get hooked on and I’m pretty practical so if it’s got a use, thats always nice. The only thing I have wanted for years is a French Bulldog but that’s one pricey present. Once thing I always always love are scented candles. I burn them daily in our home and am a big fan of wood scented smells.

Colours + Patterns with Charles of Lloyd

Thanks, Charlotte, for a little glimpse into your colourful world at Charles of Lloyd! Wishing you all the best ahead! -Aaria

Find Charles of Lloyd on her shop and here on Instagram.

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Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson

Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson via www.opinion9.com

Excited to have the first fashion illustrator on Opinion9!

I adore illustration, and fashion is one field where there is just so much opportunity to depict anything, in any way you like. I saw Cate’s style on Instagram, and her crisp and consistent drawing style really appealed to me. I love the glamour in her work- and I love the fact that it’s got a lot of heart. I’m aware that you don’t really see ‘glamour’ and ‘heart’ together much – but to me,  that’s the best part of Cate’s fashion illustrations. They look beautiful and you can see that’s there’s a very thoughtful person behind them.

Read on to hear what she has to say!

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Cate, and I’m a fashion illustrator. I post my projects and illustrations on my Instagram feed, @cateodson. 

What sparked your interest in fashion illustration and just art in general? How long have you been practicing?

I’ve been drawing dresses way before I even knew that “fashion illustration” was an actual thing. When I was young, I remember posing my Barbies in different outfits and drawing them in my notebooks and sketchpads. I started drawing, designing and illustrating clothes for friends and acquaintances when I was a sophomore in university, but I’ve been doing this professionally for a little over three years now.

Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson via www.opinion9.com

How do you interpret the presence and significance of art in your lifestyle?

For me, art is everywhere – from the way the flowers on the roadside bloom to the colours of the neatly arranged shelves in my local grocery. I try to see the beauty in everything – nothing is mundane. I get a lot of motivation from art all around and I try to infuse it in my work.

Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson via www.opinion9.com

What is your general process while creating an art piece? 

First, inspiration has to strike. Even if I’m working on a project and on a due date, I have to be inspired. I have to be in a creative mindset.

Preparations (brushes, workplace, mixing paint) – I prepare my workplace basically, and that could mean anywhere, the bedroom floor, on the bed, on the dining table, in a coffee shop. But I have to make sure I have access to my supplies.

Rough sketch (pencil/paper) – Then I start a very rough sketch (mostly just lines and circles) which I then develop into a simple line art. I then lightly erase the pencil sketch and get ready to paint it.

Painting – a few brushstrokes usually do the trick. I try to not over-do it. I like the raw look of bold brushstrokes.

Drying – I let it set to dry. I usually tidy up my workspace while waiting.

Touchups – I look out for those tiny details I missed or might want to add.

Scanning and Upload – I scan it and upload it on my laptop, ready for upload or forwarding to the client and on my Instagram account.

Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson via www.opinion9.com

What keeps you motivated to draw?

Beauty. Whenever I see beautiful pictures, clothes, shoes, flowers, landscapes and what not, I get really motivated and I try to channel that motivation to produce material and art.

 

How much time on an average does it take to create a piece?

It varies. It can be as quick as 5 minutes, or as long as two days if it’s a big project.

Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson via www.opinion9.com

Just out of interest, what was your favourite piece of art you remember creating?

One of my favourite pieces is the painting I did of my grandmother.

 

What are some fashion trends you currently adore?

I know everyone’s wearing them, but I am currently in love with the Valentino Rockstud pumps/flats. I’m also a big fan of LBD’s – those never go out of style.

 

What would an ideal day be according to you?

An ideal day for me would be a sweater weather day with an Audrey Hepburn movie marathon playing in the background as I paint. Oh, and cookies. Freshly baked cookies have to be in that scenario somewhere. 🙂

Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson via www.opinion9.com

Just for fun: what’s your outfit staple and flower and why?

Outfit: Skinny jeans and ballet flats – it’s so convenient it’s almost lazy. The combo can go from day to night. I can wear it while shopping for supplies, going to the mall and even on a late night coffee shop hangout session with my friends. Also, I adore heels, but I can’t walk in them so flats are my default shoe choice. 😀

Flower: Peonies – they’re just so delicate and pretty. Very feminine.

 

What are some themes/topics that are inspiring you nowadays? Old Hollywood. I love dramatic silhouettes and voluminous skirts. There’s something romantic and almost mysterious about it.

Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson via www.opinion9.com

What are some of your favourite art supplies and art media you use?

I use watercolours, gouache and acrylic. I use Winsor & Newton (Cotman) Watercolour.  I’m also a fan of Sakura brushes, especially the teeny, tiny ones – those are great for painting on details. I also use Copic and Letraset Pro Markers for non-paint projects. Currently, I am on the lookout for a good eraser.

Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson via www.opinion9.com

I love the colourful vibes and intricate pen work in your work! How did you create a consistent style for your fashion illustration?

It took me years to find a style I could call my own. I experimented with different techniques before I settled on the current one. If you look through my Instagram feed, you’ll see the “evolution” of my illustration style. I used to colour in everything (I still do, sometimes, when the project requires a fully coloured croquis), until I realized that I wanted my art to look easy and approachable but retain the class and glamour I’m trying to deliver through the clothes I’m illustrating. I wanted to have a more consistent look for my models and most especially, I wanted the garments to pop.

Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson via www.opinion9.com

What do you think makes a good, satisfactory piece of art (which the artist feels happy about the end result)?

When I take a step back and I feel confident with my work, when I don’t feel like I have to change or add something else and when it feels complete. It’s all about the “feel” to me. It has to feel right.

 

Fashion Illustration with Cate Odson via www.opinion9.com

Since you live in the Philippines, has the place inspired you and your art in any way?

Yes, absolutely. I love looking through Filipino history books and take inspiration from clothes crafted during the Spanish Colonial to Post-Spanish Era.

Thanks, Cate, for a glimpse into your lovely illustrated fashion work you do so well! Wishing you all the best ahead! -Aaria

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Find Cate’s work here on Instagram.

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