SUBURBAN ICONS Illustrator and designer Lizzie Hodgson has created a series of iconic prints based upon one of the most iconic cities in the world. But it’s not just the obvious areas she’s celebrating. Here she talks to Paul Lindt.
What sort of artist are you? I’m a creative designer by trade, but I would describe my work as fun, bright and clean. I try and take on each project with an open mind and explore it to the fullest. I love a challenge and love meeting new people/businesses and help communicating their brand across.
of the area that make people smile. Taking simple design and make it fun. Being a massive Instagram user it’s great! I can follow all the artists I’m into. At the moment I’m following Shok-1, his x-ray work is so conceptual. And I follow a lot of design agencies. London has got so many design agencies it’s crazy.
You are originally from Australia, but much of your work now celebrates London and the areas in and around where you live. What inspires you about your new home here? I’ve been living in London for 15 years now and I try to be inspired by everything around me. And I like to reflect things
As a relative newcomer can you sum up what is so iconic about London? London is a hub of creativity. Whether it’s the street art or the iconic art galleries, you’re never old or bored in London. There’s so much culture and so many opportunities here if you’re willing to put yourself out there.
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You once described your approach to branding as ‘happy design’. I love the sound of this. What constitutes happy design to you, and how may we judge it? A happy client makes a happy design. A great design should be a reflection of the clients or their brand. I want them not just to like it but also to love what is produced. It should always be collaborative and I try and engage with the clients all the way through the process to try and create an environment where they can give negative as well as positive feedback to get to the right result.
You use a lot of typography in your work and have even created your own typeface. How would you sell the love of a well-drawn typeface to people who may never have given one a second look? There are millions of typefaces out there. But a well designed typeface can elevate the work. Sometimes it’s just a gut feeling and you shouldn’t settle. I love seeing what shapes you can make with letters and how you can manipulate words. What has been your career highlight to date? Working for myself. Now I work for myself I can be selective in the work I take on. I’m now processing some of the best
