Wayne Mills

Who or what influenced your art when you were young?
Roger Hargreaves, an English author and illustrator of children's books and the Mr. Men and Little Miss series.

Do you remember what your first artwork looked like? Do you still have it?
It was a drawing of Buckingham Palace for the Queen's Jubilee. I was six years old and won first prize on our street for it. Sadly, I don't still have the drawing.

Where does your inspiration come from; your impulse to make art? Do you have a source for your ideas?
My daughter is my greatest inspiration.

How would you describe the process of creating art?
I'd say: calming, frustrating, challenging, intuitive and enjoyable.

Do you have a favorite illustrator? What is it about that illustrator's work you like?
Cy Twombly is my favorite illustrator, and yes, I love every mark he ever made.

If you could do something else, other than creating art, what would it be?
I'd be a park ranger.

Do you remember your first set of paints, pens, or markers?
My first drawing implement was chalk. I'd draw on the pavement on our street.

Do you have a favorite illustrator supply?
I'd have to say Neopastel oil pastels; an all-time favorite.

Do you think illustration has the eye of the public or could public awareness of this field be improved upon?
I don't think anybody really knows what I do when I tell them I'm an illustrator. I get a lot of blank stares. I guess we have a ways to go.