Interview: Natalie Mavrota

Why did you choose to enter this work?
I wanted to enter the World illustrations Awards and this project, due to it's personal nature, really compelled me to share it.

What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
With "Over that mountain" I had the opportunity to combine my love for greek folk songs and the experimentation with the comic medium.

What excites you most about being shortlisted?
It is really amazing to have a passion project selected among other inspiring works. It is very validating for my creative choices.

Where do you usually work?
I work at my home studio in the company of my dog, Pepper.

How long did it take to complete your project?
From start, the research and ideation process, to finish, the binding and cutting of the book itself, it took 10 months.

What is your dream commission?
I would really like to explore the graphic novel medium more, either by telling a fictional or non-fictional story but maybe as part of a team this time, because I like to have other perspectives.

What’s your favourite thing to draw?
My go to thing, especially for warm ups, are femme figures and dogs. Nature is always an inspiration as well.

What is your best tip for other illustrators?
To sharpen the curiosity by experimenting with different materials and to not be afraid to feel clueless for a bit. For me, this feeling means it's the beginning of something I care about.

What are your plans for the future?
To continue working on a great collaboration with geografitness, a team of independent researchers making geography (and knowledge in general) cool through social media and illustrated books.


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