ABOUT ED DINGLI

Pablo Picasso was asked to define what being an artist means. His response was “to be a human being, constantly aware of heart breaking, passionate, or delightful things that happen in the world, shaping themselves completely in their image.” This is how I see myself, a sponge of sorts in the human flesh. But then, aren’t we all? Observing, absorbing, reacting, processing, expressing, reflecting. Drawing and illustrating are my weapons of expression. My tools for crafting my own language of symbols and allusions that aim to capture (or challenge) both the intellect and the eye.

Having grown up in Malta, I eventually moved to the UK to continue my studies, which culminated in a thesis on ethical and sustainable design. Around three years ago, I left my full-time role in London to focus fully on developing my style as an illustrator. I was beginning to feel claustrophobic within the limits of service of graphic design, and was keen to explore illustration as a viable career. Knowing I could only do this by diving deep into honing my craft, I spent a few years roaming around, volunteering on eco-projects, first in the UK, then in Gozo, and now in Portugal. I strove to find a balance between doing physical outdoor work during the day, and working relentlessly on my illustration in the afternoons and evenings. The aim was to spend time in nature, learn new skills and live without many expenses, therefore allowing me to plunge into developing my craft without the pressure of earning. I felt this yearning to develop my ‘style’, to find my voice. Eventually, I learned that like with most other crafts, there are no shortcuts, and this doesn’t happen overnight. Your style is actually a result of endless hours spent experimenting with different forms of media. And it’s not just about representation, but a trip into your mind. It’s always a work in progress, but that’s actually the beauty of it. It’s always about the journey, isn’t it?

 @eddingles