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Chris Gilleard
Norway
An illustrated wall
map for children.
Humour is a big inspiration for
me. I like things that are absurd
and a little bit awkward.
Chris Gilleard
WHAT DREW YOU TO ILLUSTRATION/DESIGN? In primary school I made little comics
to sell in the playground. I guess it was my first taste of the best job. ANY FORMAL
DESIGN TRAINING? I studied at Loughborough University for three fun years. I had some
fantastic tutors and the best course mates you could ask for. WHERE ARE YOU FROM? A
little market town called Beverley in Yorkshire. WHAT IS YOUR STUDIO LIKE? It’s at home
surrounded with tons of colourful stuff to keep my brain ticking over whilst working.
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST INSPIRATION? Humour is a big inspiration for me. I like things
that are absurd and a little bit awkward. For example, I love old vehicles and technology
that looks ridiculous and outdated today. Things like that give me ideas for all sorts of
characters and worlds. DO YOU KEEP A SCRAPBOOK? I keep lots of sketchbooks and
things. WHEN NOT ILLUSTRATING? I’m a big sports fan, football especially and I like to
ski when I get the chance. TELL US ABOUT A FAVOURITE PROJECT. I made a huge crosssection of the Earth through pixel-tinted glasses with little interactive elements. I really
enjoy making big worlds full of characters and bizarre things. WHAT WOULD BE YOUR
DREAM COMMISSION? Illustrating a series of children’s picture books, both print and
digital. I’d love to make a Google-Doodle too. WHO IS YOUR ILLUSTRATION HERO? Oliver
Jeffers is my idol, all his characters and stories are just amazing. His books spurred
me to pursue illustration and are on my desk, within reach, at all times. HOW WOULD
SOMEONE WHO KNOWS YOU WELL DESCRIBE YOU? I reckon above all else, daft. I think it
shows in my work. WOULD YOU STILL ILLUSTRATE IF YOU WERE STRANDED ALONE ON A
DESERT ISLAND? I’d love to make some pixelated sandcastles. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE
SCENE OR LINE FROM A FILM? “I’m going to find it and I’m going to destroy it. I don’t
know how yet. Possibly with dynamite.” - The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou.
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