Inspiration...

People, life and imagination are my main sources of inspiration. Often an idea will evolve with new characters lining up to join the story... They can be most obstinate and will at times do practically anything to sneak into a drawing (where they technically don't really belong), I don't mind their antics though, as they keep me entertained...

Telling a story...

Illustrating is about telling stories; happy, sad, informative, light-hearted, serious, educational, funny, silly or plain ridiculous stories. The common thing is always that there is a visual element to be explored. Part of the illustrating process is to convey the meaning behind a story or a concept; at times this involves research & at other times I simply let the idea & characters form in my mind as I work, which can result in random conversations with pint-sized creatures...

The main materials I use when illustrating are: pen & ink, graphite, oils, acrylics, water colour, collage, digital colour & a tablet.

I love sketchbooks & pens in all shapes and sizes (some may call it an obsession) – I collect them and carry them with me everywhere... Sketching allows me to work through my ideas and grasp the moment. Sketches also form the basis for more detailed pen & ink drawings and digitally drawn and coloured illustrations. Regardless of whether I use pen & paper or work digitally – everything is hand–drawn. I don't copy or trace (it would be like taking a shortcut to the bin with an icecream you hadn't yet eaten); I simply love drawing too much!

To see my other work (paintings & drawings) please visit my website: Abolina Art.