Posted on
To celebrate International Women’s Day, we want to shine the light on our female artists to discover what inspires, drives and motivates them in their work. In the lead up to International Women’s Day on the 8th March, we are sharing mini-interviews with our artists and designers which we hope will empower our followers to champion women and take action for equality.
Today's interview is with illustrator Linda Benton who joined us a few years ago and now has three jigsaws in our collection.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself.
A: I am a professional artist and illustrator living and working in Oxfordshire. I studied Drawing and Painting at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in Dundee. My paintings are in collections worldwide and my work is published in books and magazines, on cards and calendars, and educational products. I have been commissioned to do 3 pieces of artwork in my montage style for Gibsons 1000 piece jigsaws featuring Oxford, York, and Woodstock. I send in a drawing first for approval and comments, then get on with the painting, sending in photos of the progress.
Q: As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: I knew I wanted to do something creative from a very early age but wasn’t clear that it would be painting.
Q: Why did you choose to become an illustrator?
A: Illustration sort of chose me because of the types of things I was asked to do. Over the years, my style has gradually evolved.
Q: What motivates you to work for yourself and be an entrepreneur?
A: I’ve been self-employed since leaving art college and can’t imagine any other way of life. I’m motivated by the thought of getting a piece of work finished and presenting it to the client who is often delighted in having a unique commission.
Q: What’s your biggest achievement?
A: Having paintings hung in the Royal Academy summer exhibition on two occasions.
Q: Who is a woman you admire and why?
A: Judith Kerr because she kept her enthusiasm and ability, and continued to do her artwork into her old age.
0 comments