This week we had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Ruth Burrows aka @ruthburrowsillustration as our Artist spotlight of the week.
Hello! Please can you give us a brief little introduction about yourself?
I have worked in the creative industries for over 30 years. I know that makes me sound old, but honestly, it’s a good thing. I studied Theatre Design at university in the UK before computers were invented so that meant we had to draw things and build things without the help of Photoshop or Google!
I then spent 23 years in the UAE working as a designer on some really fancy high-profile events. I learnt all the design programmes on the job but often whipped out my colored pencils at the last minute to impress the clients and help us win the pitch.
Eventually, the colored pencils won me over and I started to concentrate more on illustration. Two years ago, I built myself a log cabin in my back garden in Lincolnshire, UK. That’s where you’ll find me now, holed up with my dog, building up my portfolio.
What inspires you?
Everyday life. The colours, textures and shapes of everything around me and the stories of ordinary folk.
What is your favourite thing to draw?
I love an object and also faces.
What art goals do you have for this year?
Do lots and sell some. Find the perfect agent!
What techniques/supplies do you use?
I almost always start with just pencil and paper. I then take a picture of my sketches and colour them in using Procreate or Photoshop. Sometimes I’ll have a big painting binge using acrylics and watercolors. These usually find their way into my digital work.
What advice would you give to another doodler/artist?
Just keep at it. You will go from zero to hero. You’ll hate everything you do and then suddenly you will love it!


