Interview: Michael Parkin

Preferred Pronoun?
He/Him

Why did you choose to enter this work?
This was a fully collaborative project with Wide Open Studio, which excited me. It's rare that I get to do some line drawn illustration, and combining this with full colour was a really fun process!

What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
The animated loop of a man on his bike was enjoyable to make. Finding new ways to apply the artwork to different formats (merchandise, business cards, etc) was also a really rewarding process.

What excites you most about being shortlisted?
It's amazing to see the high standard of work in the WIA every year, and I'm hugely proud to be part of that. I hope people enjoy my project as much as I've loved to see all the other entries!

Where do you usually work?
I was in a studio in Peckham at the time, but I've since moved house and currently work from a studio in the garden - covered in things that I find inspiring and a drum kit to keep my mind active.

How long did it take to complete your project?
This project was completed over a couple of weeks.

What is your dream commission?
I would love to do more branding projects, and always enjoy line drawing too. It would be amazing to work on some illustrations for a music festival or brewery!

What’s your favourite thing to draw?
I like drawing a lot of things, but always seem to come back to Dogs and Boats. Can somebody please start a 'Dog on a Boat' magazine and commission me to do a weekly column?!

What is your best tip for other illustrators?
Embrace what you enjoy and make lots of work in the way that makes you happy - if you are finding joy in your work, then so will others, and that will lead to some great commissions.

What are your plans for the future?
Over the past year, I've been trying to develop a childrens book. I am working on few different ideas between commissions, so it would be amazing if one of those ended up being published!


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