In Conversation with an Illustrator – Deborah Panesar

For 2018 we are really excited to introduce some gorgeous new brands and some lovely new makers and designers. One of these talented people is Nottingham based Deborah Panesar (née Ballinger). We managed to catch up with Deborah and talk to her about her love of illustrating and the challenges of being a working artist.

Can you tell us a little bit about why and when you started illustrating?

I’ve always really enjoyed art as a child, but never thought I would pursue it as a career as everyone kept telling me there’s no money in it! However when I left Sixth Form I was at a cross roads with what to do with my life, and thought I would take a year long Art Foundation course to see how I felt. I loved it so much that I then went on to university and did my degree in Illustration. Since then I’ve been freelancing and have been grateful for the lifestyle and opportunities it’s given me!

What is your favourite thing to draw?

Animals and plants are my favourite thing to draw because I love organic forms. However I’ve been challenging myself to draw more people, and it’s been enjoyable trying to find my voice with it.

What materials do you use?

Mainly I work in pencil. To start I will do outlines and shading in 0.3mm mechanical pencil, and then will add 2B-9B pencil for depth and shade. However sometimes I work in pen, paint and ink, depending on the canvas I’m using! Some projects I work on walls or glass so require more specialised instruments.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I find inspiration in the everyday – whether thats a trip to the cinema, a walk in the woods, or taking a quick 10 minute break to tuck into a book. I find that the more I allow my mind to have space to wander, the more I allow the ideas to come.

How long does it take to create each design? 

It depends on the level of detail, but usually it will take me a couple of weeks from the conception of the idea to the finished drawing to complete one design. If my deadline is tighter, or someone can watch my little girl, then I can work a lot faster!

Do you have any tips for the aspiring artist- how to get started etc?

I say start now. Right now. There is never a perfect time, or situation, to decide to take the path less travelled and become an artist. It is hard, but it’s worth it for the gratification of knowing that someone in the world would part with their hard earned money to own something you’ve created.

What are some of your most interesting artistic challenges you have had so far?

My current artistic challenge is juggling being a mum and running a full time business/freelance career! I’ve come to appreciate that before having my daughter I had so much time in the world, and now that time is rare, I’m having to work in a completely different fashion to how I used to.

Do you have anything coming up in 2018 you can tell us about? 

I’m really excited to be back at The Handmade Fair at Ragley Hall on the 11th-13th May. It’s my biggest fair of the year, and am looking forward to be selling my wares at a new location amongst other talented makers! 

If you are feeling artistic, get drawing! There is a delicate beauty to Deborah’s artwork, definitely worth visiting her at Ragley Hall if you get the chance. And some of Deborah’s beautiful prints can now be found on our site. Just click here.