Interview: Sonja Stangl

Preferred Pronoun?
she/her

Why did you choose to enter this work?
As a freelancer I often work in a vacuum and don’t get that much feedback. Of course I can tell that my clients are happy, but it’s good to have some validation from industry professionals.

What’s your favourite thing about your shortlisted project?
I love it when playfulness and science come together.

What excites you most about being shortlisted?
It is a massive boost for my… imposter syndrome! ;) Jokes aside, I am really excited to be among such a great bunch of artists on this short list! It’s really cool to see everyone’s work.

Where do you usually work?
Mostly I work in the studio, which I share with 4 other illustrators. Unless I need to have ideas, which requires me walking up and down the room and speaking loudly to myself. Then I stay at home ;)

How long did it take to complete your project?
Altogether about 3 full working days, but spread out over some time.

What is your dream commission?
I love commissions where I can combine humour, simplicity and storytelling and then use it for promoting a good cause or something that makes a positive impact on the world.

What’s your favourite thing to draw?
Something new! I don’t have a favourite “thing” to draw, it’s much more about how to put my spin on it, rather than the actual “content” of the drawing.

What is your best tip for other illustrators?
Please don’t sit at your desk for 12 hours straight, over multiple days! You will get big problems with your back, which future you is going to have to fix somehow!

What are your plans for the future?
Steering more towards self initiated work and storytelling. I also want to combine my interest in psychology and mental health (which I am also studying) with illustration.


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