We have long been fans of Miss Magpie Spy’s work and were delighted when she sent us a few sample from her new range of cards last week. I caught up with Niki Groom the woman behind the illustrations her to find our a bit more about her work…….
Tell us about your work and what you are up to at the moment?
I’m a fashion designer, illustrator and am now venturing into the world of stationery – it’s a busy time!
I’ve recently worked with Accessorize to create permanent in-store graphics for their new London flagship store, which was a really fun and creative project. I’ve also been illustrating for Clinique, River Island and Links of London.
In my studio it’s currently all about Christmas and I’m illustrating some quirky fashion scenes for use on greetings cards. We will be launching the card range to trade customers at Top Drawer in September and so there’s plenty to do before then.
What inspires your illustrations?
I’m heavily influenced by what I see on Instagram and Twitter. I’ll illustrate hashtags, like #bff but will also be inspired by what’s topical. I love the “this is what a feminist looks like’ and feel it sums up what people were putting in to words on twitter.
I’ve been in the fashion industry for over 15 years, so obviously this really affects my work too. I’m sure everyone who has ever worked in fashion will appreciate the “pink is the new black is the new….” card. You have to be able to laugh at the industry a little in order to survive it!
Do you have plans to extends your range?
Yes, there are plans to extend the range and we have some great product ideas in work already. We are just looking for the right producers to collaborate with, so watch this space.
What illustrators do you love?
I love to hand draw and find that the people I admire do too. My favourite illustrators to follow on Instagram are @richard_haines @willagebbie @emmalblock. My ultimate hero worship is @garance_dore, it’s a full on girl crush…..
You can buy Niki’s cards here.
Fabulous, can’t wait to be able to buy them — will we get to know where they are on sale ?
Yes Sue will let you know
J x
They are available to buy on the website already. If you click on the card you like there is the option to add to card. We are adding an add to card option on the main page really soon as realise this would make things easier :)
Many thanks
@miss_magpie_spy
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