Image © James Brown generalpattern.net
We were delighted to print an exclusive new tote bag, Unexpected Item, for talented illustrator & printmaker James Brown recently. Not only that, we caught up with James & asked him a few questions about his work.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself & your work?
I trained as a textile print designer & worked in the clothing industry for many years. I became an illustrator in 2007 & started making prints as a personal project. I never dreamt that I would make a living selling my prints.
How would you describe your illustration style?
I don’t think I can! But, if I had to, I would say ‘simple but effective, (but sometimes not so simple, but hopefully still effective)’.
Who or what inspires you?
Everyone & everything.
You've lived & worked in London for a long time – do you think that this influences your work at all?
I have lived in London for most of my life & it definitely influences me. There are still areas to explore & it constantly changes. There is so much rich history that inspires & so much to see in the present. London is not unique, all towns have history & life, but London is where I live.
Is there anywhere in the world you would love to visit or work in the future?
I love New York. It would be fantastic to have the opportunity to work there sometime. As the song says, '...make it there & you can make it anywhere'.
If you hadn’t been an illustrator, what do you think you’d be doing?
I would love to have a shop, selling what I don’t I know. I would stand behind the counter & serve people in a knowledgable & authoritative manner. Friendly, yet serious. Pens in top pocket.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I'm my own boss.
When you’re not printing away, what do you like to do in your spare time?
Have fun with my family.
What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator?
Be willing, keen & friendly. Try to do as many different types of jobs as possible. Always go above & beyond the call of duty. Have a can do attitude.
Do you think it’s important to have an agent as an illustrator – would you recommend having one to other illustrators starting out?
Having an agent works for me – organising timescales, budgets & of course, promoting me & getting me work. I would advise getting one if possible, but also work hard at promoting yourself & secure jobs through your own leg work.
You’ve been commissioned to do work for some fantastic people, including Cath Kidston & the V&A, is there anyone you would love to create work for?
Those two commissions were really great to do & it was a real honour to be asked. They came out of the blue, so they were exciting surprises. I like surprises – I am open to offers!
We love your gorgeous animal illustrations & prints – we’re all a bit obsessed with pandas in Edinburgh at the moment. What’s your favourite animal?
Other people cats & dogs.
Which three items could you not live without?
Love, peace & happiness.
What are you currently working on?
An exhibition with friend & fellow printmaker Kate Gibb. It’s at Stour Space in Hackney Wick, London, throughout the month of November.
Any future projects that you’d like to tell us about?
I’m working on a new stationary range.
Our next interview will be Ten Quick Questions with Edinburgh-based illustrator Kate McLelland. Coming soon...
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