An Expression of Oneself
Interview
Draw from life as often as they can, a good understanding of the human figure and how it moves is as essential as knowledge of the cut of garments in the visual interpretation of how clothing hangs on the body. In addition- not to look sideways and to take creative risks.
Kathy Wyatt speaks with Patrick Morgan
Become a member today
www.fidaworldwide.com
When did you first get into drawing?
I started drawing as soon as I could hold a pencil - won my first competition at the age of five.
Why did you choose to make fashion part of your inspiration?
I've always been interested in fashion - I used to design and make my own clothes from the age of 11. I see clothing - the 'making of', and the 'choice of', as an expression of 'self'. As a figurative illustrator interested in the figure, movement, fabric and selfhood - it is a very natural progression.
What is your particular working day as a creative?
I work full time as an illustrator - and always have done since the age of 20. I start my working day any time from 6-9am depending on my workload on that day. The challenges of the project at any particular time dictates how I approach the day itself.
What tools do you use when creating your images?
The tools I use also very depending on the job - I use a variety of tools from traditional to digital, anything that makes a mark has potential, 90% of my commercial work is hand drawn though. When live event drawing I use both watercolour or digital in response to the clients requirements - it works out at about 50/50.
Who or what has influenced you over the years as an artist?
My greatest influences have been Rene Gruau for his fearless graphics - Kathe Kollwitz for her humanity and Robert Heindel for his grace and movement.
(its hard to pick just 3 in reality)
What advice do you have for younger artists looking to be part of this industry?
To young fashion artists I would advise them to draw figures - draw from life as often as they can, a good understanding of the human figure and how it moves is as essential as knowledge of the cut of garments in the visual interpretation of how clothing hangs on the body. In addition- not to look sideways and to take creative risks.
What are you drawing today?
Today im working for L'Oreal - Listening to Drawing Cabaret Coutures playlist the GRANNY HACKER on Spotify - (favourite artist/designer of the moment is a hard one)
What music are you listening to/books are you reading? Favourite artist/designer at the moment?
I've been introduced to a plethera of creative influence over this last year in lockdown through my online live drawing experiences - if I have to choose, then I will select M G Lawrence and Janet Mayer of DCC who create the most amazing creative visuals and experiences for us all - week after week.