Blog by London Fashion Illustrator Elyse Blackshaw
I'm writing this on a day where I'm questioning my creative practice and success. If you are a creative, you know what one of those days feels like! No matter if you are a student or established, we are constantly refelecting on our progress, creativity and success. It is important to remember why you started in the first place.
One of my wonderful interns, Jemma, a second year fashion student at University of Chester, wrote a list of ideas for me to write about in my blog. This question resonated with me today - What influenced you to become a fashion illustrator?
Truth be told, my journey towards becoming a fashion illustrator was not a deliberate one. I initially pursued a BA (Hons) in Embroidery at the Manchester School of Art, graduating in 2013. The programme is now known as Textiles in Practice. What captivated me the most during my studies was the process of visualising my embellished samples and print designs on figures. I found joy in colors and textures, exploring mark-making and drawing. Fashion illustration became a means for me to explore my imagination and respond physically to my inspiration.
I liked the endless possibilities and unpredictable outcomes generated by drawing fashion illustrations. I use to photocopy, cut and collage to mix and match ideas. Draw and redraw. It was a never ending circular process: designing, drawing and then redesigning. The experimental process was, and always is, the most engaging and important part to me. I just love the feeling of physically drawing. My experimental nature together with illustrating through feeling is probably why my artworks are sp eclectic.
Being a fashion illustrator, my aim was to capture the thrill I experienced whilst producing and admiring the creative expressions of others. My illustrations serve as a visual representation of the concept of being 'inspired'. Have you ever wondered how 'inspired' could be visually depicted? The sensation of inspiration that I feel within me is translated into my artistic strokes. For instance, when you are moved by a theatrical performance or your favourite musician, you applaud, you clap. It's a swift and repetitive motion of your hands coming together. When I sketch with fluid lines or rapid strokes on a surface, that's somewhat similar to the feeling.
During uncertain days like today, I remind myself that I create art and fashion illustrations solely for my own enjoyment. My love for putting pen to paper is why I became a fashion illustrator.
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