Illustrator Extraordinaire: Q&A with Jessica Meyrick

Originally from the city of Bristol, Jessica Meyrick graduated from Falmouth University with a first class degree in Illustration BA (Hons) in 2016.

Exploring minimalistic approaches to figures and environments using watercolours and inks, Jessica is intrigued by uses of limited colour palettes; strong, fluid lines and graphic shapes that reflect in-depth ideas.

Jessica currently works and lives in Sydney, Australia and is represented by The Jacky Winter Group.

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Tell us about yourself and what you do!

My name is Jessica Meyrick and I’m a freelance illustrator, represented by the beautiful people at Jacky Winter – living and painting in Sydney. 

Why illustration?

I’ve drawn for as long as I can remember! After studying Fine Art & Design for a year, I moved to Cornwall where I received my degree in Illustration. Drawing is such a natural part of expressing myself that when I discovered I could develop something significant from it – that was pretty much it!

Tell us about your process! How do you go from idea to stunning creation?

If I wait for a good idea to happen – I’ll be waiting a long time. I push myself to sketch (VERY badly) as much, and as quickly as possible. My sketchbooks are a mess. But it helps to really smooth out the composition, colours and shapes so I can finally paint it all.

What is your ultimate creative dream?

To look back on my work and feel that I’ve had a small impact on social change. That would be the dream! Illustration is one of the strongest forms of communication – it’s universal! To know that I’ve made a difference in giving a voice to real people would be incredible. 

What do you use the space at Nauti Studios for?

Working 9 to 5, drinking coffee and painting amongst my baby plants. 

What’s your favourite part about the space at Nauti?

Being in a relaxed creative environment with friendly artistic peeps!

If you could meet and draw any person in the world, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Sylvia Plath. Her book, ‘The Bell Jar’ is one of my all time loves. She was a fascinating woman – I’d love to capture something of her in a painting.

We have a ping pong table here at Nauti – are you any good?

Uh…no.

If you were a sea creature, which would you be?

A jellyfish. Some can regenerate their own cells, making them immortal. Plus they look pretty cool.  

Finally, are you nauti or nice? ;)

NAUTI.