Gilly Lovegrove

Gilly Lovegrove, Illustrator of The Mindfulness Colouring and Activity Book

Help our followers get to know you. What does a typical day in the life of Gilly Lovegrove involve?
In the morning before I reach my desk, I dog walk with my neighbour. Once in the studio at 9am I open emails to see if illustration briefs have arrived from clients or I continue with a current illustration brief or painting commission. I meet my husband who is a graphic designer (and also works from home) at lunchtime for a quick chat. I work on until 6pm or later if there are tight deadlines. In the summer months we go for a long walk to mull over the days activity.

When did you first become interested in illustrating?
From the age of twelve my career choice was to be a book illustrator. As a child I loved drawing and painting. I attended Central Saint Martins illustration course and was fortunate to receive a book cover illustration commission from my degree show.

What are your favourite things to draw?
I like variety and enjoy the challenge of drawing new subjects, so am happy to draw anything.

Where do you find inspiration?
I live in the countryside and am inspired by nature and landscape. The plants in my garden are a source of inspiration too. The London galleries and museums are a great resource. I also like to look at architecture for shapes and patterns.

If you weren't an illustrator what would you be?
Mmm, I can’t imagine not being an illustrator or painter.

Why do you think adult colouring books have become so huge?
Colouring is a mindful activity; it helps one to be in the moment. With the pressures of social media and modern living, I think people like to have a restful focus. I also believe that colouring books provide a creative outlet and perhaps motivate people to create their own pieces of artwork.

What does your working environment look like?
I’m lucky enough to have a lovely studio that has my computer, Wacom tablet and stylus, drawing board, easels – so fully equipped! The studio has a lot of light and a toasty wood burning stove, just right for winter days when sitting for long periods of time can be chilly. I have postcards of artist’s work that I admire on the walls and lots of books – from The History of Art by Gombrich to The Association of Illustrators Annuals. Oh, and photos of my husband, family and friends to keep me company.

Do you listen to music when you work? If so, who/what?
When I’m illustrating I prefer instrumental music, contemporary and classical: Gustavo Santaolalla, Max Richter, Eric Whitacre, John Tavener and Arvo Part, Vaughan Williams, Jean Sibelius and Henryk Gorecki. Desert Island Discs is a favourite radio programme - I enjoy learning about the participant’s lives and hearing their music choices.

What are your favourite things in life?
Once a week I attend a life drawing class at The Royal Drawing School in London; with drawing one can never stop learning and seeing. I love spending time with my family and friends. And walking is a big part of my life, keeps the brain and the body active.

Finally, please give 3 words that describe your work.
Entertaining, accessible, creative.

​You can preorder Gilly's book on Amazon (release Nov. 2015).