Askey Illustrations ... UK

Artist: Jo Askey
Business: askey illustrations
Web site: askey.etsy.com
Location: Cheshire, UK

What do you create?
I am an illustrator and graphic designer.

Where and when do you do your creative work?
My 'studio' is in a corner of my living room and I try to fit in work when I can. This can sometimes be tricky with a toddler and an eight-year-old.



Do you have another "day job"?
I left my 'day job' two years ago to have my second child. Since then I have been a full time mother and wife and part-time graphic designer and illustrator.

Where and what did you study?
After leaving work, I returned to studying part-time and am due to finish my degree in Media Graphic Design this October.




What inspires you and what motivates you?
I am inspired by anything and everything. Often by people, animals, nature and our man-made surroundings. Silly things like a broken chair inspire me.

When did you start doing this?
I've always drawn but discovered Illustrator after starting my degree -- I haven't looked back since.



Do you remember getting into art as a kid?
When I was five years old I won a drawing competition at school. The prize was to be the first person to play in the school's new sandpit. It's the only thing I've ever won in my life!

When and why did you decide to start your own business?
My business got started by accident really -- I started off doing commissions for friends, and then a friend recommended Etsy to me.




How did you choose the name for your business?
I named my business after me -- not very exciting really, just easy to remember!

What's the most fascinating place you've been?
Rome -- amazing, ancient architecture smack bang in the middle of a city!

A book you love:
Hmmm, there's so many. But I especially love On The Road by Jack Kerouac.




What is the most interesting thing about you?
I have no idea! I do have a knack of being able to do lots of things with my toes (they're unusually long).

What advice would you give women starting their own business?
The advice I would give women starting their own business is the same I'd tell anyone. Just go for it, you never know if it's going to be a success unless you try.



What's the biggest challenge you face in your work?
The biggest challenge is finding the time to do it! There just aren't enough hours in the day.

What do you love to do in your free time?
I like to do things outdoors. Go walking with my family, take the kids to feed the goats at a local farm, Especially if the sun is shining -- there's nothing like getting out in the fresh air.



What are you working on right now?
I'm studying for my degree and trying to get some new illustrations done.

What do you hope to achieve next?
I have so much that I'd like to do! I have so many ideas for illustrations which I would love to get the time to realise. When my degree is finally finished (hopefully) I'll find myself an agent and get some steady money coming in!