Welcome to my creative corner! I’m maeby wild, a digital illustrator, artist and surface pattern designer who embarked on this journey into the world of art at the age of 34 with no previous training in art or design! Today, I want to share the story of my artistic evolution and the valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way.
THE START: A DASH OF PHOTOSHOP KNOWLEDGE
I started my journey armed with a modest understanding of Photoshop. I was working as a texture designer for a games company, this involved more photography than illustrations but I did develop my skills in creating seamless repeats. I remember opening an email from a Scottish lady who asked in all caps that she wanted to buy my tartan fabric but couldn’t find out how. I politely explained that these where only images used within a game design, but that one message started a ball rolling! I searched a little more and call it luck but Make It In Design were starting their first course in Surface pattern design and I enrolled. It was fantastic, I met people from all over the world with different skills who had a passion for patterns and I learned so much, from illustrator to clients, design ideas to working on briefs.
The Riviera Tee was one of my first designs for Spoonflower and first “proper” design (there were many more behind the scenes, I have several hard drives full of scanned sketches, not so seamless patterns and experiments from that beginning stage), it came in third place and luckily several talented sewers picked it up and posted about it, which led to my first contract with a fabric company.
A LEAP OF FAITH: SUBMITTING PATTERNS EVERYWHERE
So with these newfound skills and a boost from my first proper contract, mixed with a bit of naivety and courage, I began submitting my patterns everywhere I believed they would flourish. It was a brave move, looking back, but it worked, I started with a few small clients and a couple of fabric deals. Some were good, some not so but I learned from them!
PAUSING FOR PARENTHOOD: A TEMPORARY STEP BACK
Life took a delightful turn when we became parents, and for a few years, I took a step back from full time Surface Pattern design, here my passive income was working wonderfully. But jumping back into the creative sphere after this hiatus was not without its hurdles.
THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE: NAVIGATING THE ALTERED MARKET
Returning to the surface pattern design scene, I was met with a landscape transformed and it had grown during my hiatus. The market had evolved, and become more competitive. But I am always looking at the positives, what I once knew had blossomed into a dynamic industry with endless possibilities. I now have lots more work opportunities that fit my talents, I can work around my family and home life and still bring in a full time income. And I recently started building my own studio, where I hope to hold meet ups and courses in my town which has been fantastic.
THE FUTURE OF SURFACE PATTERN DESIGN: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Surface pattern design has a promising future, but it demands adaptability and resilience. Working harder is a given, but it’s not just about effort; it’s about strategic effort. The opportunities may seem more elusive, but they are also more diverse. Embracing the challenges and seizing these opportunities is key to flourishing in this ever-evolving field.
NAVIGATING THE CONTEMPORARY SCENE: PODCASTS, BLOGGING, TEACHING
As I jumped back in, I realized that the avenues for growth have multiplied. Podcasts, blogging, and teaching have emerged as powerful platforms to not only showcase your work but also to contribute to the vibrant surface pattern design art community.
So to my fellow digital art enthusiasts, just dive in, whether you’re just starting or rediscovering your passion.
You can also join me as I navigate the ever-changing currents of surface pattern design, sharing insights, experiences, and the beauty that arises when creativity meets determination. The adventure awaits, and the canvas is ready for your unique art to fill. Let’s create something extraordinary together!