How would you describe what you do?
I am an artist and musician that creates bright, colourful prints and clothes with festivals and parties in mind. I am obsessed with colour, texture and the patterns in nature.
How did you get started in art/design?
My parents have always encouraged me to be creative and I have pursued art throughout my life. I studied art through school up to college and then studied music at university but always kept drawing. Something my secondary school art teacher told me at school was that ‘an artist’s journey is finding their own aesthetic and refining what is uniquely them…there is no right answer’. I found that to be very exciting and it allowed me to experiment and play more, rather than trying to be perfect.
What makes your work and/or process unique?
I try to make my art as loud as possible. It is a reflection of my mind and my experiences. I’ve always had a hyperactive imagination and I believe it comes through my work. My prints are developments of sketchbook drawings inspired by my experiences, friends and family. I try to keep it genuine, true to myself and handmade.
What tips would you give to someone interested in starting what you do?
Use art as an outlet for your emotions. Create without expectation to be good. Art is an amazing way to release all sorts of emotions and some of the best ideas come from raw reactions and 3am thoughts.
What made you feel like, “yes this is something I want in my life?”
Drawing, making prints and crafting in general calms me right down if I’m in a pickle. It brings such joy to me that I can’t help but fill my time with it. When I was much younger I remember this immense excitement I’d feel when my dad would teach me art/crafty skills, like crosshatch technique or modelmaking. I still feel just as happy and excited when I learn new things today and build on the skills my dad taught me.
If you have creative block where do you get inspiration?
When that happens, sometimes best not to fight it and take a break. But, if I’m desperate, I’ll look through old sketchbooks. Seeing old doodles with fresh eyes helps me view them in a new light which sparks new ideas. A lot of my sketchbooks have little markers in them for me to come back to and pick up from.
Where do you see yourself in the future with this journey?
I’m very passionate about festivals. I love everything about them - except the loos! They’re filled with amazing art and music and I’d love to contribute to that. Whether it’s selling clothes/prints or getting involved with site decoration and stage designs. I plan on volunteering at more festivals next year and applying to trade at some too.
Is there another artist/maker that you admire?
My dad is a big one. He is a huge inspiration for me, has always encouraged me with my art and helped me along the way. His background is in graphic design but he is passionate about all types of craft and loves to oil paint. His style is vibrant, graphic and totally magical… I am biased though!
Any exciting events/projects/experiences soon?
I am currently making some personal decorations for my trip to a festival in Lithuania called Yaga Gathering. This festival is deep within a forest and is unlike any festival I have ever been to. It is a huge source of inspiration, growth and joy for me. I have been twice before and wanted to create some mixed media flags, bunting and clothes inspired by previous Yaga experiences for my friends to enjoy and decorate our base camp.
Why is Colchester Makerspace important to you/your work?
The Makerspace opened the door to screen printing for me, which has been an absolute game changer. I have wanted to learn for a long time and now I know, I can’t stop! I am so happy when I am in the space printing and seeing what other people are up to. When I’m in there I feel completely at ease and calm. That’s the best environment to work in.
What is your favourite thing about Colchester Makerspace?
Simply that it taught me to do the thing that I love doing the most at the moment. It is accessible 24/7 with everything I need ready to go and that there is opportunity to learn so many other amazing and incredibly fun skills. There just aren’t enough hours in a day.
Some of Zeb’s pieces will be on display and available to buy from Friday 4th July - next door in the neighbouring restaurant Patch. Please ensure you are onsite when placing order. Items are collection only - no shipping. To see more of his work - take a look at the links below: