The 2023 AOI Mentorship scheme is fully underway, and we are proud to introduce and champion this year’s mentees in a new series of interviews. A free program first introduced in 2020, this initiative champions a select group of 22 underrepresented illustrators, empowering them with dedicated support and guidance in the course of six months.
Eva Andzi-Quainoo is an Illustrator currently based in London, UK, paired with mentor and Illustrator Laura Barrett. Continue reading to learn how her mentorship is going so far, her key takeaways from the experience, and much more.
What does being part of the AOI Mentorship mean to you?
It’s affirming and encouraging to be selected for this year’s scheme. I’m incredibly thankful to have the opportunity to learn from those who are further ahead in the industry.
“It’s been a pleasure working with Eva to develop her beautiful paper cut illustrations, as she moves into a more collage-based process and style. Eva is incredibly organised, talented and enthusiastic and it’s been lovely mentoring her as she defines and works towards her goals within the industry.”
– Laura Barrett, AOI Mentor.
How has the mentorship helped you tackle your goals? In what way(s) has your mentor supported you?
One of my goals is to gain an insight into the process of editorial and music illustration, another is to experiment with an alternative style. Laura has given great insight into the inner workings of editorial illustration.
Currently, I’m working on a gig poster series where I tackle both of these goals as I’m creating them in a collage style with elements of my usual paper cut style. Laura’s feedback is highly valueable and I’m having lots of fun with this project!
“It’s affirming and encouraging to be selected for this year’s scheme. I’m incredibly thankful to have the opportunity to learn from those who are further ahead in the industry.”
– Eva Andzi-Quainoo
What has been a key moment or takeaway from the mentorship so far?
The importance of experimentation and trusting the process. Experimenting with collage has allowed me to be a lot more fluid with what I expect the outcome of my work to look like.
Thank you Eva for taking the time to give us this interview. See more of her work on her website and instagram.
Keep checking our Mentorship section to meet more mentees!
Learn more about the AOI Mentorship and our 2023 Mentors.
The AOI Mentorship scheme is one of many initiatives offered by us. Find out more about membership today.