March meet the maker

I have decided to take part in "March meet the maker" - which is an instagram challenge for all creatives to tell you story - with daily prompts.

I always like to hear other peoples stories about their creative journey, so I'm sharing a little summary here :)

Day 1 Story

#marchmeetthemaker

For the first time I’ve chosen to take part in March meet the maker run by @joannehawker

So my story began as a child - I always loved drawing, painting and making things. Through school I knew I wanted to do something creative. I studied Art and Design at A level then went on to do an Art foundation and a degree in Textiles at Manchester Met Uni (now known as Manchester school of art)

After University I went on to freelance for a textile studio where I created designs for children’s bedding/ fabric - these were the days before digital so most of my work was either created from fabric/stitch or collage/paint.

During this time I also began teaching part time, I initially taught Art A level and then moved into Graphic Design - which I really enjoyed. I taught part time for 15 years which was a great way to support my freelance design. I left teaching last year to focus on full time designing.

My work now is really diverse I have been really lucky to work on lots of exciting projects including children’s books, fashion prints, textiles, editorial design, packaging design and stationary.

This past year I have launched my own range of greetings cards and have opened a little Etsy shop selling children’s wall art.

Most of my days are spent at my desk with my cat flora (you can spot her in the picture) I feel really grateful to be doing a job I love! Hope this has given you a little insight into my world of illustration!