Meeting our next creative collaborator
At S1T2, our work introduces us to interesting people that we get to collaborate with. It’s been great learning from them and also getting to know them. But the best part is working creatively together. In this series, we talk to some of the interesting artists we've had the pleasure of collaborating with.
Jo Ley is an illustrator in Sydney who drew the brilliant mural that hangs over our heads in the office. During last year's Christmas party, we auctioned off pieces of the same artwork to raise money for Delta Society. She's a frequent visitor to our cubbyhouse working on illustrations and storyboards. We're also launching a major project that's she has taken part in very soon, so stay posted!
How did you become an illustrator?
Like most artists I’ve been drawing since I can remember. I studied illustration in London, then after graduating I spent some time at a couple of studios as a house artist before going freelance and moving to Sydney where I signed with the Drawing Book Studios, and I've been working with them ever since.
What do you love the most about your job?
The variety, you never know what sort of brief might come in and it's fun to work on a wide range of projects, plus I get to draw every day which is pretty awesome.
What's the coolest project that you've worked on recently?
It's hard to pick! Recently I took part in some live drawing at Wacom's 10th birthday event with fellow Drawing Book artist Bill Hope. I'm a huge fan of their products so I just loved it, and it was great to geek out with other digital artists.
How did you land in the S1T2 Cubbyhouse?
Initially, I was commissioned to create the 'Evolution of Storytelling' Mural that hangs in the S1T2 studio, one of my favourite projects! Most recently I was in to create some visuals for a Vivid Sydney pitch, it was great to see some of the concepts for next year.
What are the programs that you use the most?
I like to use Manga Studio, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator.
What are some of your favourite blogs + websites?
- http:
// pixosprout .tumblr .com/ - http:
// realcatagent .tumblr .com/ - http:
// chickensword .com/ - http:
// helpusgreatwarrior .tumblr .com/ - http:
// www .harkavagrant .com/ - http:
// heathersketcheroos .tumblr .com/ - http:
// ladytruds .tumblr .com/ - http:
// blog .catalistuniverse .com/ - http:
// gemmacorrell .tumblr .com/ - http:
// lizclimo .tumblr .com/
Where do you find inspiration?
Everywhere! Sometimes just going for a walk is a great way to get a fresh perspective if you're feeling art-blocked. I always have cartoons and games on in the background while I'm drawing, seeing other artists work is a great way to stay inspired and motivated.
How do you hone your creativity?
I watch tutorials and process videos of other artists to learn more about the programs I'm using, plus making personal work, drawing everyday, and going to life drawing class.
What's the next for you?
More of the same, lots of interesting freelance projects, drawing cute characters and learning new software. I'd like to try 3D modelling, so Blender is next on my list of programs to check out.
