The 2022 AOI Mentorship scheme is now fully underway! First introduced in 2020 and expanded in 2021, this free program is designed by the AOI to further support and guide under-represented illustrators in an intimate and supporting setting.
Walton on Thames-based illustrator Trupti Lyndon is one of 17 new mentees selected for this year’s edition, paired with mentor and Illustrator Cat O’Neil. We learn how her mentorship is going so far and what she’s hoping to achieve in the months ahead.
What does being part of the AOI Mentorship mean to you?
I am grateful for this opportunity to be a part of the AOI mentorship. As a recent graduate, it is challenging to navigate through the illustration industry. A professional input meant that I could talk through my goals with an industry professional who has years of experience.
What has the mentorship been like so far?
Cat is an exceptional mentor! She is supporting me with invaluable advice and knowledge to achieve my goals as an Illustrator.
I have always been interested in working on folklore narratives from around the world. Within the first month, I’ve taken up a collaboration project with an Indian organization that conserves and promotes folklore. Cat’s encouragement and tips to work on a project like this have presented me with immense confidence.
What do you hope to accomplish by the end of the mentorship?
I am hoping to develop a picture book and create exhibition opportunities by the end of this mentorship.
The images showcased above are part of Trupti’s current project: ‘The Singing Halakkis’
The Halakki Vokkaligas are from the Karnataka region of India. They are a 400 years old tribe that still thrives on an ancient way of living. The Halakki women are powerful and hold the community together. They help with the cultivation of land and yield of fertile harvests. The women sing songs to assert their identity and belief, passed down through generations.
We’d like to thank Trupti for her time in giving this interview. See more of her work on her website and Instagram.
Keep checking our Mentorship section to meet more 2022 mentees!
Learn more about the AOI Mentorship and our 2022 Mentors.
The AOI Mentorship scheme is one of many benefits offered by us. Find out more about membership today.