Designer insights with Kate Bishop

Kate Bishop is an illustrator, maker and workshop participation assistant as well as founder of Kroma, which she runs from Southsea. Kate works on a freelance basis, driven by her passion for colour, design a drive to create. Her interesting colour palette and love of simple shapes and objects, blends to create a modern explosion of design, with soft touches of nostalgia. She is also a graduate from the Arts University of Bournemouth. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Kate Bishop.

Designer Insights - Kate Bishop

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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?

My Illustration work is naive. I like to play with shape and colour in it's simplest form. My aim for my brand KROMA is to create work that is clean but playful. Something that is appreciated but isn't taken too seriously.

2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?

When starting a new project, I will begin by doing some quick pen and ink drawings and collages. I then pick the ones that work the best and scan them in and work on them digitally. I also love to screen print.

3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?

I admire those who have not been afraid to be completely honest with me about their creative journey. I think you've got to have guts to dive into something knowing that you could possibly be taking a massive fall. I have found that, in general, creative people like to help each other out and that's why I enjoy collaborating with others. We want to see each other succeed.

4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?

I use pinterest and instagram everyday for constant creative inspiration. I also like to read through high fashion magazines for colour inspiration and I'm always inspired by my surroundings so I may visit a specific place for research.

5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?

I always knew I wanted to brand myself, even when studying at University. My career has developed so much since graduating and it has only been a couple of years. I have always thought of my work commercially but recently I have been teaching as a designer and that has opened up so many other doors for me. As well as being able to create my own work, I get to inspire and listen to student's aspirations. Perseverance is key for success as a freelancer along with flexibility, enthusiasm for your craft and knowing when to give yourself a days rest!