Illustrations, relationships, the internet and sexy hats with Matthew the Horse.

When CAF started we thought our interviews would highlight some similar things and a pattern would start to emerge that defines how successful people in the creative industry work.

Partially, that is true. But the biggest surprise even though there are similarities is that nobody (so far) handles the highs, lows and in betweens of producing illustrations the same way.

That couldn’t be more the case then that of Matthew the Horse. His work is clearly aesthetically original but also communicates deep messages often around education and the system it exists in. We love Matthew because his illustrations to us are genuine and real. And we were lucky enough to have him share some of his thoughts on why he’s got to where he has.

Here’s what he said…

Could you give us 3 tips that you’d say have got you to where you are today.

1) Don’t stop drawing and make friends with making bad work. Recognise that there’s a difference between skills and creativity.

You are always getting better if you’re reflecting on your outcomes. I’m not really that happy with what I do but in the middle of it all I know that I’m improving all the time, or evolving at least.

2) Define success for yourself. No one is going to give you a medal. There’s no finish line.

Creativity is a need, like exercise and fuel. If you are making and doing and progressing then own it.

That is far more valid than kudos or cash. Of course you want to get paid but let originality, innovation, skill and progress be your intent. I know some highly successful creatives who are stressed out and grumpy.

If you don’t have time in your life to fall in love / climb a hill / visit your gran then what’s the point.

3) Be someone. Be curious. Have an opinion. Start with an idea.

It’s not how loud your blow your trumpet, it’s how sweet the noise it makes.

Matthew the Horse for the BBC

Why did you feel Illustration is best suited to you as an art form? What excites you about your illustrations?

I’m not sure it is right now. I’m also writing poems, painting, making maps, making films.

We should be careful not to lose sight of the fact that illustration is an applied art and by its nature, it needs something to illustrate.

What I can say though is that I love drawing and making figurative images.

I love the immediacy of hand made marks, print, colour, gesture. I love how the process of making pictures can be a catalyst for discovery as well as representation.

Matthew the Horse for the BBC

Can you give us an idea of your average day, how you work and how you get your creative ideas done?

I have a sketchbook on the go all the time and do my best to draw everyday.

These drawings exist as either PLAY or PRACTICE. And it’s important to keep your hand moving and work without inhibitions or reason. I compliment that with writing, poetry and various nonsense discussions with pals and buddies.

Once I’m into something, I draw illustrations over and over. No pencil, no precision, rather I learn the strokes and lines and weights of a drawing.

This can take some time and becomes a fluid process of making and reflecting. Additionally, when I think the lifework is working, I bring things together on the Mac.

This is where I’m currently trying to amend my process as I want to get away from photoshop. At the same time, I am very interested in custom brushes and textures, but primarily, what drives me on is line and character.

Matthew the Horse

How do you attract new work?

• Be present online
• Maintain good relationships with everyone I meet
• Offer something unique
• Be professional
• Sexy hats

How long have you been an Illustrator and would you say it’s your career?

I’ve been doing this since 2006 but its been a slow burner.

Also I’m an educator and have written a degree programme which I now deliver in Leeds. This dominates my time but is a joy. I love teaching and consider Illustration, Art, Poetry and Teaching my career.

The important thing is to adapt, identify opportunities, self initiate action and don’t let the middle men do you over.

Matthew the Horse – Ladybird Banner

What’s the best advice would you give to someone starting out?

• Fall in love with your ideas
• Take time to reflect
• Get a nice desk
• Be consistent
• Twat about
• Eat fruit
• Draw