Interview: Anna Nicolo

Preferred Pronoun?
She/her

Why did you choose to enter this work?
It’s the most significant public art commission I worked on last year. I really enjoyed working on it and I am proud of the results.

What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
Its simplicity and playfulness yet important message at its heart that reflects the diverse local community. Also, how it adapts to the architecture of the building and transforms its surroundings.

What excites you most about being shortlisted?
As I have only been working on commissions within the public realm for a couple of years, it’s exciting to see my work being recognised alongside talented artists and amazing projects.

Where do you usually work?
I live and work in London. I am lucky to have a little studio just 20 mins walk from my house which I share with another artist friend and our two dogs.

How long did it take to complete your project?
Roughly a couple of months, including the design process, community consultation and installation. The mural installation took only five days in some challenging London weather.

What is your dream commission?
Anything that involves working on something I am passionate about with like minded people. It doesn’t matter if it’s a public art installation or a collaboration with a brand or magazine I love.

What’s your favourite thing to draw?
Aside from my dog, I like to draw observations from my daily life. At the moment my notebook is filled with drawings of people hanging out in London parks and making the most of the British summer.

What is your best tip for other illustrators?
As a wise man once said ‘Work hard and be nice to people’ – Anthony Burrill :)

What are your plans for the future?
I am currently working on my latest mural commission and I am about to start an exciting artist residency during which I will be focusing on printmaking and growing my editorial portfolio.


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