Martina Scott : The Daily Illustrator
I first met Martina Scott whilst partaking in an symposium come event come workshop sort of thing a couple of years ago called I am Illustrator. I loved her hip hop inspired work then and have since followed her practice. I am Illustrator happened over a few days in a shopping complex in Belfast aiming to promote contemporary illustration whilst providing opportunities to network in the city. Other participants included Andy Hamilton and Jacky Sheridan. Back to today's Daily illustrator though, read on for Martina's interview below.
WHEN DID YOU FIRST START ILLUSTRATING AND KNOW WAS IT SOMETHING YOU WANTED TO DO AS A PROFESSION?
When I was 11 I wanted to be a cartoonist, this replaced the previous dream of acting, which replaced the earlier unfulfilled desire to be a biscuit. The role of cartoonist wavered to artist, Tae Kwon Do instructor, art teacher and then settled for a long time at graphic designer.
During the degree and working as a graphic designer it became clear that my favourite projects were undoubtedly the ones using illustration, I realised that’s what I should always be doing.
I just recently unearthed the memory of wanting to be a cartoonist; I find it comforting that I’ve ended up close to a childhood dream. I wouldn’t describe myself as a cartoonist, but I make artwork with the intent to amuse.
WHERE DO YOU FIND YOUR INSPIRATION?
I’m often inspired from wordplay, taking things literally and seeing how far I can take it. Inspiration can come from anything though - I try to keep myself open to it by being as spongelike as possible - soaking everything around me in.
HOW DO YOU GET THE IDEAS FOR YOUR ILLUSTRATIONS?
There’s a definite trend for my best ideas to come when I’m relaxed and/or outdoors. When I’m on a bike ride, a scenic walk or passing time with good company, ideas just come. I note them down and try to realise them soon, but I note faster than I draw so I have a long backlog of projects and ideas I’d like to explore more. I don’t think I’ll reach the end of the ever-growing list.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MEDIUM TO WORK WITH?
I love the natural textures from working traditionally as well as the freedom and experimental outcomes that come from working digitally so it’s usually a blend of the two.
IS THERE ANYTHING YOU ARE CURRENTLY WORKING ON?
I’ve been working on a new series of illustrations called ‘Pet Peeves’ - animals getting really agitated and upset at the trivial things that bother us - running out of mobile data, applying eye liner wrong or having no milk for your tea. I’m happy with this project as I love drawing animals and the outcomes are limitless and crack me up.
I’m also working on some prints based on local craft beer. I’ve been making a lot of new work lately as I’ve just signed up with new illustration agency UsFolk and they’re launching with a bang this month.
CURRENT PLAYLIST AS YOU WORK?
Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of Ezra Furman, CSS and St Vincent but the music can really vary; I’ll throw in the cliché line ‘I have an eclectic taste in music’ but then who doesn’t? So far this year I’ve listened to about 6 audiobooks while I’ve been working, which is a nice change from music every so often.
ARE THERE ANY ILLUSTRATORS THAT YOU ARE A FAN OF THAT DESERVE SOME EXPOSURE?
My good friend Angelika Latko creates enchanting illustrations worth checking out.