Interview with: Barbara Tamilin

Barbara Tamilin

We chat to Brazilian Graphic Designer & Illustrator, Barbara Tamilin about her work & the inspiration behind it.

Tell us a little about yourself and what path lead you to become an illustrator/ graphic designer.

My name is Barbara Tamilin and I am a Brazilian graphic designer and illustrator. I was born in a really small coastal town of Espírito Santo, in South-Eastern Brazil. At 18, I moved south to a big capital city and started to study Sociology, but after two years, I gave up. I started studying at the Federal Technological University of Paraná and today I work as a graphic designer and illustrator full time.

Can you tell us a little about your work and the inspiration behind it?

In my work, I approach everyday situations of women that I admire and follow. I see them as protagonists of my story, and how each carries a little of me in their features. I love to use organic shapes and various pink tones as a magical atmosphere, always with many textures and patterns.

Can you give us a little insight into your creative process and what materials you use in your work?

First of all, coffee and a good playlist! I start with a digital sketch of some initial idea or work with reference photographs. I usually use Illustrator for perfect shapes and photoshop for finalizing the details. In the last few years, I have only worked with digital illustration, although I love watercolour and gouache.

What would we find you doing when you’re not making your art?

Probably freaking out with some idea I need to put on paper! Just kidding. In my time free I do physical exercises, bike ride, go to museums, eat and drink a lot! This kind of things. I love going to craft fairs and independent festivals.

Are you working on any new projects at the moment?

Last month I worked on an incredible (but still secret) project involving pattern design! I’m loving the results! In addition, some personal projects have taken more body and shape in recent weeks.

What are your future goals and ambitions as an illustrator and graphic designer?

I believe, like most illustrators, that my goal is to have a book published! I would also love to work on illustrations for clothing brands, lookbooks etc. It is a field that I have been increasingly approaching and falling in love with. Working with volunteer projects to help causes that I believe in would be wonderful and is something I’m beginning to do.

What do you wish you knew about being an illustrator/ graphic designer before you got started?

This is a difficult question! Maybe learn to be more patient with myself and others.

Are there any budding artists, photographers or designers that you are loving right now?

I’m always obsessed with some artist. This month particularly with the photographer Petra Collins.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

Of all the advice people have given me, what struck me the most was to never stop observing and inspiring oneself. Often the creative world can become a cell, just like any other repetitive job. What I learned from myself, was to never think that you are already good enough, constantly seek new techniques and new styles.

To see more of Barbara’s work visit barbaratamilin.com or instagram.com/barbaratamilin