Since a young age I have loved drawing and painting, particularly flowers. Connecting with nature everyday is an important part of my routine whether it's going for a walk, watching the ocean or looking at the flowers that have fallen along the side walk or just sitting by the window with the sunlight drenched on garden those little moments inspire me to create.
For me when i'm drawing my little character Pepper Berry Mouse I feel like my characters and background scenes are like gathering ingredients for a home made recipe ... like which herbs or flowers should I pick to be part of my storytelling today.
I'll sit in the backyard garden or at my desk, with a cup of herbal tea most of the time it's rose tea, i'll start by observing and seeing what draw my attention and start imagining how I can use the garden for inspiration for my whimsical mouse characters, even a quick sketch can lead to an idea later. Colour also plays a big role with my illustrations as the garden provides an abundance of palettes often, greens, bright coloured florals and muted earth tones. I feel I borrow from what I see and then refine it to suit the mood of the piece.
The garden is always changing at it's own pace through different energy and seasons. I have learnt over the years I am forever learning and growing through the changing seasons, My art is a reflection of my observations and connection with art, the people that are drawn to my style of art also have the connection - sometimes it's not how it looks but how it feels. There is an emotional layer and I think thats what people connect with most.
My aim with my art is to create a pocket full of joy and calm in a world that is too busy.
Thank you for reading and I hope my illustrations can bring a little joy to your day.
Ciao for now
Steph xx
