Interview with @therosyredhead

We asked Jess - TheRosyRedhead some questions...

Jess taking inspiration from nature to hopefully boost our well-being. When the sun is out, Jess is out, rest assured! Now let's get to know her even more

• What’s your favorite technique?

I create my artwork digitally using Procreate on the iPad. I use the Monoline Brush which creates a consistently smooth, steady line; perfect for me because I use a lot of strong outlines in my work. My favourite technique, and something I do with all my art, is create a vector graphic of my illustration using Adobe Illustrator. Vector graphics enable me to scale my work to any size without losing quality, change the colours easily, and manipulate the shape of something to get it just right.

• Who or what is your biggest inspiration/s?

I’m heavily inspired by nature, particularly flowers. I’m so glad the weather has warmed up and the flowers are now blooming. My camera roll is overflowing with pictures of flowers! 

I’m also inspired by my own experiences and emotions. I’ve faced life-changing challenges in the past which have had a huge impact on my attitude and mindset. My art focuses on mental well-being, and I believe in being authentic, so I share my perspective candidly to give others hope and encourage them to look for the good. My purpose is to create something that will make someone else feel a little happier and more loved. This is what motivates me to keep creating and sharing my work.

• How did it all start?

It kind of started by mistake! I’m an Australian who relocated to the USA in 2018, and had every intention of pursuing a corporate career, as I had done for so many years. While I was waiting for my US work permit to be approved, I started illustrating as a hobby. I’ve always been a creative person (I have a degree in graphic design), and it felt great to be an artist again, so I ditched the idea of corporate and decided to start my own business. I officially launched The Rosy Redhead in 2019 and I’m so glad I did! It’s the most exciting, challenging, rewarding thing I’ve ever done in my life. I began by selling my illustrations in the form of stationery products; prints, stickers, cards etc, in my online shop. I’ve since grown my business to include private commissions for brands and wholesaling my products to retailers. I’m also about to start working with a third-party manufacturer to further expand my product line.

• Do you have a tip for those who are starting out?

My number one tip for anyone who is starting their own journey, is to be authentically YOU. I understand this can be difficult, because putting yourself out there for the world to see is a scary thing to do. You can definitely look to others for inspiration, but don’t compare your work or progress, or copy what they are doing. There is no point in that. We are all different, and it may take time but you will find your own style and what works for you. People will love and trust your work because it has come straight from your heart and your hands. So be brave and be yourself!

• Favorite app/program?

I have a love-hate relationship with Instagram! But it’s the app I use most frequently. Of course, everyone knows the struggles of using this platform to promote your business and battling the “algorithm”. But on the flip side, I’ve met an exceptional community of artists and small business owners through Instagram who has helped me immensely on my journey. I’m grateful to have found a supportive, kind group of people, and even made real friends! Connecting with like-minded people has been a game-changer, and something I didn’t expect when I started… and it’s how I found StickerApp, haha!

Thank you Jess! Do you want to see more of her, follow her on Instagram.