my favourite Etsians - Q&A with Sister Planet

You may remember a while ago I wrote about my love of polar bears and ice cream - and how perfectly Laura's painting illustrated the post. That polar bear picture of hers is not the only wonderful one - all of her illustrations are awesome! I recently saw these amazing stickers in her Etsy shop and just had to buy them:

Laura has also very kindly agreed to answer some questions I have for her, so without further ado, let's crack on...

Hello Laura! Thank you so much for agreeing to answer some of my questions! Firstly, would you like to introduce yourself to Matin Lapin readers?


My name is Laura Manfre, I'm a French illustrator now living in Norwich, UK.


How long have you been drawing/painting and how did you first get into it?

I've been drawing for a long time, but I only took it seriously 2 years ago. I've always loved to draw and especially to use lots of colors. Drawing and painting are for me a way to be closer to my dreams, to create what would be impossible to see. I've always been very shy and lonely... so being creative was my way of expressing myself.


That sounds very romantic! Did you train formally at art school, or are you self-taught?


I'd been a law student for almost 2 years before I abandoned everything for my real passion. I wasn't happy with my studies, it was really strict, sad and monotone. I needed to create! So I've been teaching myself drawing and painting techniques using the internet and particularly my boyfriend's knowledge who is an amazing artist. I still try to learn every day, try to improve my skills... I don't think art school is for me, I'm really too shy!

The Inflatable Donuts from the "Big Food" series

Since you're self taught I would guess that gives you lots of freedom - how has your work changed since you first started, if at all?


I think my work is always changing. At the beginning I only used my inspiration, now I try to combine it with what I have learnt. I use more media - acrylic, watercolors, gouache, ink, and more recently Photoshop.

You have lots of very different projects on your website - where do you get your inspiration from?


I get my inspiration from the amazing eras that are the 50s, 60s and 70s! Everything from those years I admire, music (especially Motown hits), art (Peter Blake, James Rosenquist, Mary Blair, Alain Grée, Art Seiden...), fashion, cinema... I love to go thrifting, I always feel so lucky when I find vintage clothes, books, furniture, decoration... and pictures! They are my treasures!

Gang of Piñatas from the "Don't Be Afraid" series

I love everything on your website, but especially your "Don't be Afraid" series - what is your favourite project and why?



First, thank you! I think I really enjoy painting dogs! It's always really fun when I do a commissioned portrait because I work with the owner, sometimes take pictures, and when people are happy, I'm happy!

Bentley

When you are not drawing or painting, what else do you like to do?


I've always loved photography, cooking, and lately gardening. So great to grow your own vegetables when you're a vegetarian! I'm also starting a new project which combines my love for drawing and sewing! More soon!

I can't wait to see that! To round off, would you like to tell us an interesting fact about yourself?


I'm scared of unripe fruits.

Thank you so much for your time Laura, and for answering my questions!

I look forward to seeing your next project!

If you would like to read more about Laura, you can find her here:

// website // etsy // blogger // flickr // twitter //