Ep.42: How to develop your art skills with Rachel Favelle (Pop Surrealist Artist)

Iva Mikles
Ep.42: How to develop your art skills with Rachel Favelle (Pop Surrealist Artist)

Rachel is a Contemporary Pop – Surrealist Artist and Illustrator who lives and works in Queensland, Australia. Graduating with an Illustration Degree and a Bachelor of Education, she has been working in the field of Art Education since 2000.

Her research into fairy tales and classic children’s literature became the focus for her artworks during her Illustration degree and to this day has become her inspiration for her work. One of Rachel’s main aims is to create imagery which adds beauty. The beauty is in the simplicity of the compositions and the naïve subject matter. Her contemplative and quirky characters, which often sit in solitary environments, whisk us away into imaginary and mysterious worlds.

“I am interested in the interpretations of the audience rather than being prescriptive with my narratives. My characters are often inspired by the innocence of childhood as well as my own fond memories of that time; superhero costumes, retro toys and playing in the garden with my pet dachshund.”

Rachel’s illustrations are usually mixed media works examining the relationship of graphite, gouache, ink, colored pencil and watercolor while she loves to explore the medium of oil painting in her larger scale works.

Get in touch with Rachel

Key Takeaways

“It’s important not to compare yourself to other people, just enjoy the experience, just enjoy the journey of creating art”!

  • Best advice Rachel ever got was to network and make relationships, don’t be afraid of the failure or rejection, just give it a go
  • You can’t be great at everything – so specialize in what you like
  • Do workshops, you don’t need to go to university, even youtube is good – develop some skills to begin with and then immerse yourself into the experience – study, research, go to galleries – develop your own voice, your own style. Practice your craft every day, like any profession
  • Make sure to get honest feedback from the pros
  • Don’t waste your time.

Resources mentioned

Special thanks to Rachel for joining me today. See you next time!

All artworks by Rachel Favelle, used with permission

Click Here For The Episode Transcript

Iva

Hi, I am Iva (rhymes with “viva”). I am a full-time self-taught artist behind Art Side of Life® and a Top Teacher on Skillshare. I have 15 years of experience in the creative field as a concept designer, illustrator, art director, and now freelance artist, content creator, and art instructor. My goal is to help you get your creative groove on with Procreate and make awesome art through practical classes, tutorials, Procreate brushes, and guides on art tools, supplies and resources. About me »

More Podcast Episodes:

More from Podcast Episodes »

Iva

Hey there!

I am Iva (rhymes with viva), and I'm the artist behind Art Side of Life. I'm all about helping you get your creative groove on with Procreate and make awesome art! So on my website, I share Procreate classes, tutorials, brushes, and guides on art tools, supplies, and resources such as these interviews. Ready to create and make amazing art? Then explore, join and have fun ♡

More useful content:

Procreate Classes, Brushes and Equipment Guides

Guides on Printing Art

Guides on Digital Art

Guides on Art Tools

Guides on Art Supplies

Guides on Art Books

More about me »