Interview: Jenny Tarr

Preferred Pronoun?
She/her

Why did you choose to enter this work?
This was a big turning point for me. Prior to this I worked exclusively on A4 or smaller. This work measures at over 1 metre square!

What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
I think the economy of line. I'm really interested in line and its relationship with the blank page. Also, I think this is completely me, if that makes sense, drawing like me, and that feels good.

What excites you most about being shortlisted?
I am so excited to be shortlisted! And to be in the company of such true talent. Also it is such a wonderful opportunity to bring my work to new audiences.

Where do you usually work?
I have a studio in an artists collective - Haviland Studios - in Boscombe. It's great! I have my own space whilst being surrounded by other creatives. I also draw on location in my sketchbooks.

How long did it take to complete your project?
The selected piece was part of a larger joint exhibition which was months in the making. But this particular drawing took half a day I think.

What is your dream commission?
I would LOVE to do some more editorial work on the topic of mental health and wellbeing. I am also looking to move into publishing, be that book covers and/or children's picture books.

What’s your favourite thing to draw?
I love drawing landscapes. And people. And looking at the relationships between us and our surroundings.

What is your best tip for other illustrators?
Hmmmm.... Draw. Draw some more. Drink coffee. Eat cake. Draw again. Oh, and channel inwards. You know what to do. They don't.

What are your plans for the future?
I'm working on my own collection of fine art posters. I'm also starting my own patreon so that people can draw with me, as an extension of a sketch book club I run at Sobo Beach Cafe in Bournemouth.


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