It’s Risograph Week here in the gallery. A celebration of all things lo-fi and the beauty that is this fun eco friendly way to digitally print. Check out this weeks Risograph Blog to find out all about this fun way to print.
Nicola Boon is a Scottish illustrator, living in our fair city. Her work is usually in monochrome, and she would describe her style as delicate and whimsical. Using fine lines and watercolour; she explores shape and expression in simple subjects, transforming them into subtle messages of emotion. Nicola uses the method of Risograph a lot in her work.
Let’s find out about Nicola and her life as an illustrator. 🙂
What Do You Love Most About What You Do?
I am so proud to tell people I’m an artist! My passion is also my job. I love creating new works, inspired by my life and my daughter. And I love being part of a creative community.
Where Did You Study And Why?
I studied for a BA Hons in Illustration at Duncan of Jordanstone in Dundee. I love Dundee, and I loved studying there. It is a fantastic city. Since I moved to Edinburgh, Dundee has flourished with the opening of the V&A. I have watched with nothing but pride in my heart!
Where Do You Base Yourself & Why?
After leaving Dundee, I moved to Edinburgh. I have family here, so it felt like the most logical step and I got hooked! I have days walking through this city, in the rain, thinking how beautiful it is! Full to the brim with art and music, inspiration at every turn.
What Do You Like To Do When Escaping Work? Where’s Your Favourite Coffee Spot?
When I take a day, I make time to spend the day with my little girl. Her favourite spot is the National Museum of Scotland! When I take an afternoon for me, I will treat myself to walk up Arthurs seat followed by a donut and coffee from Considerit
Many of your pieces are Risograph, What made you choose this method of printing for your work?
I actually learned about Risograph printing at a print fair in Manchester last year. A lot of the illustrators we’re using it, so I started investigating. I love screen printing, and Risoprint was a similar technique, with the use of layers. The final result, is mottled and textured, and even though it is a digital printer – it has a handmade element. Which I really liked! I was recommended Gutterpress, which is run by illustrator, Sarah Bissell. She is so lovely to work with and made the whole process so easy!
What Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self?
Stay focused, stay strong and believe in yourself. It is so easy to compare yourself to others, and doubt whether you’re good enough. But try to ignore that little voice in your head, work hard and keep pushing yourself. It will pay off in the end!
Who’s Your Favourite Artist at The Red Door and what would be your Top Purchase?
I really like Charlotte Farmer’s work! And will soon be purchasing her lovely John and Yoko Print. (there’s lots of love for Charlotte’s work from fellow artists and customers alike)
We’d like to thank Nicola for taking the time to let us get to her and her work and process. Nicola’s design was chosen for the Oor Wullie Big Bucket Trail. He’s sitting proud of place on Castle Terrace East.
Keep your eyes peeled across our social media this week as we share some of our favourite Risograph’s. Don’t forget to check out our stories and Highlight Reel too 😉
