INTERVIEW: SIOBHAN LEDDY
IMAGES: SIMON COOK
Simon Cook, operating under the pseudonym Stone and Spear, is a UK-based illustrator and designer. One of Creative Review‘s ’2010 ones to watch’, his work is so refreshingly bright you may have to don your sunglasses right…about…now…
Here he speaks to Flamingo about his working process.
Why did you decide to become an illustrator?
I think it chose me to be honest. My style really fully developed during my final year at Nottingham Trent University. I was working on club flyers and little projects here and there while working on self-negotiated briefs at uni. I think it’s really important to get this balance and it worked really well for me. It allowed me to continually develop my style at university whilst establishing a name for myself in industry. I studied fine art, graphic design and photography though at college and I pretty much loved everything, which is perhaps why now I’m an illustrator. The ability to draw on different styles and techniques learnt through these areas really helped me and is a reflection of my collaged style. So I guess there wasn’t a particular trigger. I’ve just always been working this way.
Where do you start when you’re creating an illustration or design?
For me it all starts with some coloured origami paper and scissors. It’s light, easy to use and cuts really well, perfect for making little collages to scan and work on top of later. Everything I create is handmade and collaged, which to me is very important. Not only does it give a desirable look and feel but ultimately establishes who I am as a designer.
Where do you do most of your work?
Part studio, part adventure. There is a strong sense of magic and wonder within my work. I love the idea of taking the viewer to a fantasy land where anything is possible which is why I always like to start a project with a day out! Time to think whilst taking in sights and sounds. For me it works really well.
Pen or Photoshop?
I usually start by sketching ideas then thinking about colour pallets, which determines the mood and feel of the piece. I use a combination of techniques, first cutting shapes and images and then compiling on the computer. This is an important part of the process as it allows me to edit and create collages that have depth and character.
How did your Concrete Hermit show come about? Is this your first show?
Buffalo Breath is indeed my first solo show, which is really exciting. I was actually contacted by Concrete Hermit a while back as they wanted to make create a space within their Kingly Court store for artists to exhibit. The space is a great addition to the Concrete Hermit empire and it was great to be asked to kick start this project. It’s been great to have total creative control over an exhibition; my mind went wild! I’d definitely say you can see how Stone and Spear has progressed in this latest series of work.
Which illustrators or designers do Flamingo readers need to check out?
At the moment I’m loving these digitally printed silk scarves by designer Lucy Jay. They are right up my street. And also I’m really into collages by Mario Wagner and Clara Mata. There are lots of great people out there at the moment.
What’s next for you?
I’ve just joined the team at bi-monthly music magazine JUKE, which I’m really excited about. I can’t wait to start. In the New Year I’ve lined up a whole host of collaborations too. Watch this space.
Any wise words for budding illustrators?
I guess my one piece of advice would be to keep working, remember to talk to everyone you know and mass email. That was three, wasn’t it? Oops.
Buffalo Breath is on at Concrete Hermit, Kingly Court, London until January.
Discover more of Simon’s work at www.stoneandspear.com.
