Firstly, tell us a bit about yourself? Where are you from/based?
I am originally from Stockholm, Sweden but now I am working and living in London, UK.
What is your aim with your art?
By using extreme perspectives and play with the size of different body parts I hope to make my illustrations dynamic and create movement. For example, I like to use a low perspective so that you look up at the characters which makes them seem powerful. I also often draw the characters taking big leaps so it looks like they are heading somewhere with confidence. These techniques are means to express and experiment with female representation and gender identity. For example today it is very common that women are depicted looking happy, pretty and heteronormatively sexy. I am very aware of this and try not to sexualise the characters in my drawings. Instead I want to empower them and draw attention to the power dynamics of contemporary society.
Can you tell us a little bit about the art scene that you are in? Is it supportive? Is it collaborative?
I graduated very recently so I’m still quite new to this art scene and still trying to figure it out. But so far I find it very supportive and collaborative. For example together with 6 friends and former classmates we recently started a art queer feminist collective called Corrrective. Our aim is to create work together but also work as a support group for each other. We currently have our first exhibition up at Central Saint Martins at the moment.
Working as an illustrator can be a bit lonely but I have met a lot of professional illustrators an graphic designers since graduating and everyone is super supportive and eager to connect. I find this super exciting!
Can you tell us a bit about your process when it comes to your art? Is it methodical and planned out or more free flowing and off the cuff.
My process is quite straight forward. I start by writing down words and sentences and I draw small thumb nails sized drawings in my sketchbook. When I’ve done a couple of those I move on to my iPad and do rough sketches and that I then refine. Then I move on to photoshop and do the line work and colouring in. In photoshop I also add textures that I have created myself with ink or digitally.
What is your favourite artwork?
Any artwork created by Helene Schjerfbeck.
