Interview: Martin Beckett

Why did you choose to enter this work?
I was lucky enough to have been long-listed for 2023's World Illustration Awards and after this success I wanted to enter again.

What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
It is all hand made; the character and scenery is completely hand-sculpted. I love working this way and after shelving this portfolio style for a while I wanted to bring it back with vengeance!

What excites you most about being shortlisted?
Everything! It is so exciting! I haven't entered many competitions before, and to get shortlisted for the biggest is mind blowing! I am super excited for the reach this will give my work.

Where do you usually work?
I work in a home studio. I am multi-disciplinary so have a digital drawing tablet, a movable table for model making and lots of cupboards hiding the photographic lights to keep the place tidy.

How long did it take to complete your project?
This project took about 3-4 weeks; however, I will re-use some of the scenery for future work, so I see it as an investment in future works.

What is your dream commission?
I have always loved books, so book covers. More specifically I am (and have always been) a huge fan of Terry Pratchett's books, so a commission to work on any of his covers would be a dream come true.

What’s your favourite thing to draw?
I love people, there is so much character and story in faces, so maybe faces? I also like drawing animals for the same reason, you can get so much personality, depending how you draw them.

What is your best tip for other illustrators?
Keep on going. It doesn't always just 'happen', you need to put in the hours; and remember that Illustration is a business, so don't be precious if a client wants to change something.


View Entry