What does it mean to you to be a part of Skribbl, and helping to make art education accessible to all?

I think art should be encouraged more in schools. At the moment it’s seen as secondary to the core – English, maths and science. Even though these subjects are important, art is a way for people to express themselves and process emotions through the very many forms it can take. It can also be the route to a number of different job options that aren’t often advertised when looking at potential careers when leaving school. I believe if more people were taught about these job options from an earlier age, more people would have the opportunity to work in a more fulfilling role in the creative industries.

Describe your illustration style in three words…

Sketchy, lifelike and nature-inspired.

How did you get started in illustration… What’s your story?

I’ve had a fascination with drawing since I was small. Finding it a place where I can escape the loud world and often fast paced thoughts in my mind, with a pencil in my hand, everything seems quiet for a while. I’m a graphic designer by day working in editorial print design, but I love to include hand drawn patterns throughout to add a personal touch and reflect the message of the articles.

How do you approach a new illustration?

First I think about if I want the piece to be more realistic or have a fluid sketchy feel to the drawing. I then sketch out the outline, concentrating on the different shapes and likeness to my reference photo. I then block out the colour of the piece focusing on shadow and light, building layers of texture often through cross hatching. Finally I think about the background, often adding gestural lines to the piece to add movement.

What inspires you to create?

I love the escapism that creating art brings. I’m also massively inspired by other creatives around me and try to not get intimidated by artists that are better than me, but instead be inspired.

Give us a tip for generating creative ideas?

We are lucky that we live in a world where inspiration is readily available at our fingertips. Of course Pinterest and social media are great to get ideas, but also look further afield in printed content like magazines and even through fashion and travel.

Tell us about your favourite illustration, or Skribbl topic to illustrate and why?

I think illustrating the normalcy of life can be beautiful. Finding pleasure from small day to day tasks like sipping a cup of coffee and turning this into art, to highlight the importance of appreciating the little things.

What’s the best piece of advice you can give to a budding illustrator, or someone just getting started?

I believe the most important thing is to make art that you find joy in creating and ultimately you create for you. This can be difficult in a world where social media and sharing our art is also important. Not losing the reason why you started creating in the first place is essential. Share and market yourself, but draw what you want draw, not what you think other people will like.

What does your workspace or studio say about you?

My workspace is filled with light and I’ve painted the wall my favourite colour – a sage green – which I find such a calming colour. I’ve also got lots of plants and paintings around which I find very inspiring and overall it’s a relaxing place to be. I’m not sure if this is a reflection of me as such, but more what I aim to find more of – peace in a busy world.

Who is your favourite artist or an artist who inspires you?

I love abstract artists such as Jordan Nicole but I also love realism artists too such as Maggie Enterrio and Lucy Pass.

Draw yourself… Can be a doodle, abstract, whatever you want!

Alice on Skribbl & Instagram…

‘Look & See’ – Eye drawings detailing the complexity of human and animal eyes.

Follow @alicecillustrations