In the Studio with Beth Fraser
Beth Fraser is an exciting illustrator known for her distortion of the human figure and her blending of fashion illustration with abstract art. We caught up with her to find out more about her journey in the industry and who she is as an illustrator in her own words…
Tell me a bit about your creative process
I start with sketching, which is a relatively new way of working for me. I sketch figures and then dress them using cut-out and collage techniques. I see this process as a sort of jigsaw, moving pieces of paper around until I find a composition that I like - there's a lot happy accidents!
Who inspires you?
Any illustrator that has their own unique 'style' and stays true to it. It's not easy to find and not easy to keep, I respect that more and more.
What draws you to your signature multimedia style?
It's a quick way of working, it makes me very decisive. I'm a visual learner so I need to see the colours and layout on the page in front of me before I know it's right. I also love the simplicity and bold nature of it.
Describe a typical day in the studio
I tend to make a rough plan for the day over a cup of tea that morning. I get the more admin bits out the way and then enjoy a creative afternoon. I tend to draw in my sketchbook elsewhere, and only open them again once I'm at the studio ready to pull them out and make them into tangible finished illustrations.
Do you listen to any music or podcast whilst you work? What are your favourites at the moment?
I always have something playing, it depends on what suits the piece I'm working on. I listen to a lot of 70's psychedelic sounding bands, Khruangbin are my go to! If I'm working on something more fiddly or repetitive I'll listen to podcasts - I love 'No Such Things as a Fish' or any fact based show.
Best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Say YES to everything, especially when starting out on your creative journey. Try it all and see what suits you and your career.
What are your ambitions as an illustrator?
To still be loving my work when I'm 90! I also wouldn't say no to a VOGUE cover...
