When it comes to designing a new character, where do you draw inspiration?
Being a mother of four children and working in schools as a behaviour lead, I’m in a space of constant inspiration. Also, when you have a storyline that carries a deep level of enrichment it oozes information for the intention to the design. When it comes to the hair that’s where I have the most fun. I tap into the hairdresser part of my brain and let my imagination run free. My mission is to represent everyone. Growing up in an area filled with estates you see the world through all lenses.
They say don’t turn your passion into a job. Do you think that’s true?
I really think it depends. For me illustration is more than a passion, it’s a sense of peace. It silences my mind. My advice is to not saturate yourself; meaning don’t tip the balance too far where the thing you love becomes the thing that makes you lose your peace.
Self-publishing has exploded. What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about going down this route?
I think the biggest one is that it’s not possible to have distribution and get into book shops. You must get creative and think outside the box. There are schemes that provide books through subscriptions, and you can approach independent indie bookshops. Another misconception is anyone can do it. In principle that’s right but it’s doesn’t mean all will be successful. Self-publishing is expensive, from sourcing editors, illustrators, focus groups barcodes, print runs etc. Those incurred costs can’t be taken lightly.
What was the last thing you doodled for fun?
It was a cat stealing chicken off the side to eat it. I love to play around with compositional pieces.
What advice do you have for aspiring artists?
Keep creating! Whatever your median is just keep creating and be intentional! The difference in my skills and understanding after two years has been crazy. Sign up to programmes that hold you to account, keep be purposeful with your creation and see how far you can push it.
Follow Zenovia Grant on Instagram at @zen.to.paper
