I always loved drawing, it always seemed like the most natural path. My mum is a very creative person and always encouraged me to pursue my own creative talents. I also had some great teachers throughout my schooling who cheered me on in my artistic pursuit as well.<\/p>\n
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Can you describe your illustration style? <\/strong><\/p>\n I would say that I have two different styles. A cartoony style that I employ with my cover and book illustrations, usually digital artworks, created with Photoshop and a drawing tablet. I also have a more photorealistic style that I predominantly use with pet portraits. With the pet portraits I usually stick to using watercolours, inks and markers.<\/p>\n I have always favoured expressive characters, bright colours and textured backgrounds.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Is it hard to make ends meet from illustration? <\/strong><\/p>\n Working as a full-time illustrator has always been my goal. I\u2019ve had a variety of different jobs since finishing uni, but in the last few years I have been able to tip the scales in favour of my illustrations.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You seem to have a bit of a penchant for drawing animals and other creatures. How did that come about?<\/strong><\/p>\n Drawing animals has always seemed to come easier to me than drawing people.<\/p>\n I\u2019ve always loved animals. I used to copy characters from my favourite books or movies, and I would have fun telling my own stories through their expressions and body language.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Which other artists inspire you?<\/strong><\/p>\n Some of my favourite characters growing up were Charles M Shulz\u2019s Snoopy, and Murray Ball\u2019s Dog. I believe I learnt a lot about conveying mood and loose and expressive linework from these two great artists. I also adored the work of Maurice Sendak. More recently I take my inspiration from other freelance artists. I frequently find myself drifting back to the work of Alexandra Bye, especially as I\u2019m working hard to develop and improve my illustrations of people.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What have you been working on lately?<\/p>\n Recently I have been working on a book cover and interior chapter illustrations with American author Letitia Burton. The book is about a young Osprey making his first migration from Long Island to Argentina and is geared towards young readers.<\/p>\n I\u2019ve also been working on pet portraits. Christmas time is always very busy for these!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/timesnewsgroup.com.au\/bendigotimes\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Caitlin-ODwyer2-300x191.png\")
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