I used to create illustrations for a company that produces greetings cards showing black representation. They were trying to get into mainstream shops, but the retailers gave excuse after excuse not to stock them. So, I decided to try my own thing because I knew that there was an audience out there. Black women are no longer asking for a seat at the table; we’re creating our own tables. And that’s how it should continue. When creating a new design, I look at social media and other publications to see what’s trending. I also look at what my nieces and nephews are interested in, like cartoons. I keep a list of ideas in my head, and I have so many Pinterest boards!
From there, I create drawings and doodles and I play around with colour. If I don’t feel anything towards a design, I know it’s not ready and requires more time. Some of my most memorable customer feedback came from a mother who messaged via a group on Facebook. She said she cried when she saw one of my illustrations because it looked just like her son, and that she’d never seen anything like it before. It’s moments like these that give me a reason to keep doing what I do. When I need a creative break, I get out of the house. It’s nice to go for a walk or sit in Starbucks and read or listen to music to totally switch off. I come back to my work with stronger creativity.
Shop now at https://www.fefusdesigns.com/
