Preferred Pronoun?
She/her
Why did you choose to enter this work?
It marks an important milestone for me and a creative direction where rich, drawn detail carries the story through multiple, imaginative interconnections that inspire curiosity and engagement.
What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
It was a labour of love! With the subject matter spanning 500 years, there was so much to learn and be inspired by in order to translate the complex narrative into something meaningful for audiences.
What excites you most about being shortlisted?
It's wonderful! And a very humbling recognition and validation of my work. To be part of such a rich community of other artists is a real privilege and I'm delighted to have made the shortlist.
Where do you usually work?
I primarily work in a small South London studio where I divide my time between co-running Northover&Brown and creating my own work, although my favourite place to draw is from a hammock in the woods.
How long did it take to complete your project?
This artwork formed the penultimate section of a large temporary exhibition, and after developing the concept, from first drawings to the final installation took around 10 weeks.
What is your dream commission?
One that gives me endless freedom to create! Where the drawn work can truly inhabit the space and perhaps celebrate the interconnection of species & habitat; an RSPB reserve or forest would be great.
What’s your favourite thing to draw?
I've a very active imagination and love getting lost drawing maps and monsters. As a naturalist and avid birder birds are near the top of the list. And I have a thing for noses I mean who doesn't?
What is your best tip for other illustrators?
Practice! Draw every day and from life. Stay curious about the world around you and experiment. Sorry that's a few but I think the most important for me at least.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m currently enjoying working on a public art installation in Bristol and hope to create similar work in the future, where I can help interpret spaces with rich narratives using drawn work.
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Mel NorthoverMel_Northover
Mel Northoverfrom the 16th century town square to 17th century coffee houses