I recently went to Somerset House in London for their annual graphic design festival Pick Me Up. This two week event showcases a wide range of artists and includes a programme of talks, events and workshops. Most of the displayed works are available to buy and there are plenty of activities to take part in on the day. All the work was amazing and made me just a bit envious, so I thought I would share some of it with you here and profile a few of the designers and their work.
Ping Zhu, who affectionately describes herself as a “she-illustrator, organically grown in Los Angeles, imported to London”, works primarily using gouche on paper. Her work is definable by the use of bold fluid brush strokes and I love the whimsical and often comical style to her work.
Since graduating in 2010 Ping has built a very impressive CV, with her work featured in numerous newspapers and magazines. She’s obviously in high demand, hardly surprising as her varied portfolio encompasses a range of subjects.
All images are taken from Ping Zhu’s website, except for ‘Length Matters’, which was found here.
London-based Hattie Stewart was displaying a selection of her Doodle Bombs, an aptly titled collection of work in which she draws over the covers of influential fashion magazines. In the past she has collaborated with designers such as Marc Jacobs and Adidas, she also worked with the recently closed down 123 Bethnal Green Road to revamp old china with her unique style.
All images taken from Hattie Stewart’s website, apart from two farmed Doodle Bombs, which were taken at the Pick Me Up exhibition.
Sarah Vanbelle is a Belgium-based illustrator who was showcasing a collection of giclee prints based on a cityscape, the idea being that in each frame you are looking through a window into an apartment. The result is a comic book-like strip which tells a story.
All images from Sarah’s website, where you can also see more of her work.
In addition to individual artists and illustrators, there were also several galleries and collectives displaying works and running workshops and demonstrations.
Above: Fatherless
Left: Print Club London Right: The Zoom
And lastly I created a Face Stamp, using rubber stamps at the Human After All stall, all in all a very inspiring afternoon!
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