Interview: Alissa Thaler

Preferred Pronoun?
she/her

Why did you choose to enter this work?
I'd never heard about the Bristol Bus Boycott before creating this work and thought it was an important story to tell, especially in the aftermath of the Windrush scandal.

What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
The bus has been driving around Bristol for almost a year now – it's been brilliant spotting it on the streets and having friends text me photos when they've seen it.

What excites you most about being shortlisted?
Other than getting my work and story in front of a global audience, it is also a big 'pat on the back' for an illustrator – knowing that industry professionals consider it an award-worthy project.

Where do you usually work?
I have a desk at home, but whenever the UK weather permits I like to work in the garden. I also share a studio with some amazing illustrators in a vibrant creative area in central Bristol.

How long did it take to complete your project?
It took about four days in total – from initial research and sketches, to fully designed illustrations, incorporating amends from the advisory committee + community, and final artworking.

What is your dream commission?
Anything animal & natural history related! I'd love to illustrate visuals in an exhibition for children at the London Natural History Museum, and a book or game about strange animals! And a cookbook!

What’s your favourite thing to draw?
Animals by far – but I also love drawing famous people in history and food. The most pleasant thing I've ever illustrated was some pears for the Guardian Labs + Bonne Maman. More pears, please! :)

What is your best tip for other illustrators?
Not sure I'm in the position to give tips on this... but maybe finding a way to keep a sense of play alive in your daily practice, and not comparing yourself to other illustrators.

What are your plans for the future?
I'd like to do more educative and fun work for kids in the future, continuing to enjoy illustration, and finding more time for experimentation alongside commercial work.


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