Step into a world of whimsy through the many talents of artist, Lauren Fowler. Lauren Fowler is a Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Crafter or Thing Maker. An all-rounder who flourishes creatively in many mediums. Not forgetting that she is also a passionate contributor to and lover of her community. “I graduated with a BA in Visual Communications from AAA School of Advertising in Cape Town. I have experience in graphic design, illustration (hand drawn and digital), web design, animation, editing, photography, styling, knitting and sewing. My work has been published in ELLE, ELLE Decoration, Glamour and Real Simple. I live in Cape Town and I’m available for freelance as well as contract work”.
What inspires your illustrations?
Patterns, nature and emotions all inspire me. I feel like I want the viewer to engage when they look at the artwork, to make them look a little closer and think about the imagery a little longer. I want the images to take the viewer away from their day to day lives momentarily, to a place where other things are possible.
And what about your cross-stitch?
Cross stitch is one of the oldest crafts. The feeling of creating something with such a simple movement, with small stitches, turns into a whole image or text. Cross stitch is very precise, it involves counting blocks, centering, patience and concentration. I’m inspired by the slow and gradual movement of cross stitch. It slows me down when I’m feeling rushed and deadline focused.
What does creativity and creative expression mean to you?
In my opinion, creativity is what happens when you let go. Letting go of conformed ideas, of what you’re “supposed” to be doing and just feeling your way through an idea or concept. Making mistakes is important and sometimes process can become the artwork.
What are you most passionate about in life?
I love to eat, food is very important to me. From colour, texture, tastes and smell. Love it. I enjoy cooking for other people as well.
Future plans for Lauren Fowler, if any?
This winter, I’m planning to run evening workshops from my new studio/shop at the Woodstock Foundry. I’m also very excited about making the space work in a different way, as a workshop, gallery, exhibition space.
You can find the works of Lauren Fowler here:
- The Woodstock Foundry is on 150 Albert Road. My shop is called Lost is a Place Too
- Beatnik Bazaar
- The Fringe on Kloof: 99B Kloof Street Cape Town
- Vamp: 368 Albert Road (Opposite the Old Biscuit Mill) in Woodstock Cape Town
- Blink: 71 Regent Road Sea Point 021 434 0541
- Haas: 67 rose street bo-kaap cape town
- Marigold: 21 De Lorentz St Oranjezicht 021 422 5451
- Blank Space: 71 Roeland Street
- NewClr: 70 Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
