Featured Artist – Janice Nadeau
Artwork by Janice Nadeau
How and when did you know that you wanted to become an illustrator?
I have always been creative, seeing things other people did not seem to notice, and drawing always has had tremendous importance in my life. It became clear to me, while studying Graphic Design at the University of Quebec in Montreal, that illustration was the ideal medium for me because it allowed me to express my own ideas and to enhance that of others. As a result, studying Illustration at the École supérieure des arts décoratifs de Strasbourg (France) was a natural and obvious choice to develop my skills.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Words are my primary source of inspiration; I want my illustrations to enhance them, to give them new levels of reading. I’m also very inspired by the 20’s and 30’s French bourgeoisie retro charm, class and fashion. I am attracted by pattern and textile history. I try to infiltrate some reminiscence of this era in my work. Nature, theatre, travels and crowds are other important sources of inspiration.
What type of environment do you prefer to work in? At home or in a studio?
I like to work in my studio at home while drinking tea and listening to the radio.
When you are creating commissioned work, how do you take yourself out of the project and focus on the idea that needs to be conveyed?
My training in graphic design allows me to understand and respond to the challenges that arise when having to communicate a message. I see every new project as an opportunity to make the most of my knowledge and to further push the frontiers of my imagination and of my skills.
If you had to describe your body of work in one word, what would that word be?
Sensibility.
What are your goals for your future as an illustrator?
I would like to find new ways to combine my passion for design and illustration. I thrive to illustrate textiles and objects to express my creativity in new ways. In the years to come, I would also love to work on mediums and forms of art I have not yet had the chance to explore. Pushing my limits and facing new challenges is vital for my art and this makes me a long-life learner.
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Janice is one of my favorite illustrators. Thanks for the opportunity to find out more about her, and her work!
Posted on November 29, 2010 at 1:50 pm.