Clara Lacy is an illustration graduate from London’s Camberwell College of Art drawing inspiration from the realms of science and nature – everything from the very concept of evolution to the birds in the trees around her. We dived into her minds eye to see London life through an illustrators eyes…
Tell us where you live in London and what you love about it?
I live on the Boundary Estate in Shoreditch, it’s a beautiful place that is an oasis in such a high octane part of the city.
What do you do and how do you think London or parts of London help inspire you?
I am an Illustrator, London is a multicultural and vibrant city but can also feel quite isolated. This gives me time to absorb all that is going on which comes out in my work, often through a central image surrounded by white space, focusing the viewer on the subject.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am working on a project for a group show I am involved in later this year.
Which other London illustrators do you admire?
I look at Chrissie Abbott, who I know and admire, and Ryan Leigh’s work with complete awe. Both illustrator’s work vastly differs from mine and I am fascinated by how we all see things so differently. And wish I could have “A Day in the Life” to see what its like from their artistic perspective.
When you’re not drawing, where do you like to socialize and hang out?
I enjoy spending time in Shoreditch where I live and work. I moved here 8 years ago and in that time it has changed dramatically. The restoration on the bandstand and garden of Arnold Circus has made it a beautiful peaceful place where I have lunch on dry days. I like to meet friends in The Royal Oak on Columbia Road and The Spurstowe Arms in Hackney, they are both lovely pubs with great food and a relaxed atmosphere.
When I have time I like cycling from one of London’s villages to another, they all have their own atmosphere and character. I find it refreshing going to south to Peckham or west to Portobello, it feels like you’ve gone on holiday. I grew up in London and there will always be new places to discover.
What would be your perfect day in London?
My perfect day would be sunny, which is rare but we have had a few of recently, going to a friends house who has a garden (which is also rare in London) and it taking off from there. Friends, food, drink, music and merry conversation.
And there you have it…to view Clara’s work visit her website www.claralacy.com. Clara is also one of the Maker’s for the SS13 Lee Cooper.