I’m Amanda, an illustrator from London. I was born and bred in the UK but I am originally from Ghana. I have always loved to draw and I’ve been doing so ever since I could hold a pencil. I studied both Art, and Graphic Design in college, but deviated slightly at University and studied Classics. In a bid to return to my artistic roots, I’ve been focusing on building my illustration portfolio and professional clientele since 2016. I’ve worked on several published projects and recently completed a front and back book cover design for a poetry collection.
- How do you define your work?
My work is quite stylised and I typically keep my colour palette fairly minimal. When drawing from a reference, I try to get as much of a likeness as possible but stylise it enough to make it a little different from the original. I also love adding texture, whether it’s to trees, plants or a portrait.
2. Where/ how/ who do you get inspiration from?
Much of my inspiration comes from my everyday life. I particularly like drawing faces and bringing them to life through a variety of expressions. I think that faces and facial expressions are the most interesting part of the body and that no matter what you look like, there is always something interesting to draw. I sometimes catch myself people watching on the tube or in coffee shops and think, “I’m going to draw you later.”
3. Best career decision you have made to-date?
Back in 2013 I had an epiphany and knew exactly what I wanted to do with my life. But it wasn’t until 2016 that I really decided to do something about it. I got up one day and decided to take my illustration seriously and by that, I mean creating more work, setting up a website, regularly posting on my Instagram, creating prints for sale and just generally being more active.
4. If you could have done something differently in your career to date, what would it be?
At University I actually studied Classics which I really did not enjoy, so in hindsight I would have chosen a more creative subject.
5. Any advice for young designers / creatives?
Don’t wait until you’re ready, because you’ll never be ready.
You can find more about Amanda’s work on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandaqart/
Website: http://amandaq-art.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/amandaq_art
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandaqart/
