Alice Newman is an illustrator based in Edinburgh
What’s the story behind your brand?
I work as an illustrator from my studio in Leith, splitting my time between working freelance on various projects and running my own business selling my work inspired by Scotland.
I’ve always recorded the places around me, whether I’m having a coffee, on the bus or just out for a wander, there is always a sketchbook in my bag and I’m usually jotting down my surroundings in it. It started as drawing practice and a need to get away from my desk when working on big commissions.
This habit has led to me creating a range of Scottish landscape pieces, which I sell in various galleries, shops and at pop up markets all round Scotland. I also sell online through AlicesPrintShop on Etsy.
Ashton Lane print, £30, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/AlicesPrintShop
What do you make?
Taking my inspiration from Scottish places I create illustrative landscapes that are recorded with a childlike nostalgia, a keen eye for details and a love of colour. I apply these to a range of prints, cards and homewares. Alongside this I work on freelance illustration projects, such as my Scotland Colouring Book.
Scotland Colouring Book, £6.99, www.salariya.com/books
Where do you get your inspiration?
My work combines collage and drawing. I paint textured papers cut them into basic shapes, then layer them up and work into the separate pieces with drawing and soft pastels to capture all the details.
It’s great for playing with the composition and perspective, which is a big part of my work. My starting point is always observational drawing. I need to be in the place that I want to make work about, so that I can explore the area and record all the little details which make it unique.
Isle of Harris print, £20, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/AlicesPrintShop
What sets you apart from other makers?
My unique style for capturing a sense of place. My work is very cheerful and fun. There is often a sense of narrative in each piece, and there is new details to discover the more you look.
Scottish foods tea towel, £10, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/AlicesPrintShop
What are your most popular products?
My customised landscapes are my most popular product. My landscapes are filled with little figures, and as an optional add on when purchasing a print you can send me a photo to work from and I can add in a little portrait of you and family or friends! They’re good fun, and it makes the print extra special and personal which is great for a birthday or wedding present.
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