Introducing illustrator, Laura Hughes…

Last month, I was contacted by the very talented illustrator, Laura Hughes, who’s very fond of painting and drawing flowers.

I’m delighted to feature a selection of her gorgeous floral illustrations today, together with a Q&A. 

Over to Laura…

When did you start working as an illustrator and where are you based?

I’ve been illustrating since graduating from Kingston University, so about six years now.

I’m originally from Bath but am currently living in East London with my cat, Lulu.

Where do you get floral inspiration for your illustrations?

I’m often working to tight deadlines, so it’s not always easy to get to the real thing. But I do like to go to Columbia Road flower market on a Sunday and Victoria Park.

When I have more time, I try and go to the big parks in the spring and summer, such as Regent’s Park and Kew Gardens in the spring are a real treat.

We have a lovely little community garden on the estate where I live in Hackney, so I’m looking forward to seeing what pops up this spring.

Could you tell us about any floral-inspired projects you’ve been working on recently?

I love drawing and painting flowers, so I was really pleased to be asked to create some designs for the Whistlefish Gallery recently (which you can see below).

They’ve made my designs into cards and wall canvases that can be bought through their website.

Last year’s tropical trend was a great inspiration and gave me an excuse to work on some self-initiated images (which are directly below) and repeats using more experimental techniques and bolder colours.

What are your plans for 2012?

I’ll be creating a new range of floral artwork for license and also plan to set up an online shop selling large scale prints and original artwork. Plus, I’m due to start work on my third picture book this year.

Do you have a favourite flower?

Sunflowers are my favourite.  Perhaps because I find them really hard to draw! I love their sturdiness and straight, tall stems.

I hope you’ve enjoyed today’s blog post and seeing Laura’s beautiful illustrations.  I absolutely adore the zingy colours that she uses and the cheerfulness that comes across in all her designs. 

If you’d like to keep up-to-date with her news, she has a blog and is on Twitter.

And do look out tomorrow for the start of a new blog post series called Flowerona reflects…

(Images : Laura Hughes)