Q&A with illustrator Nicholle Kobi

                                         

Tell me a little about yourself.

Where are you from/have you lived and how has that influenced your work? 

I was Born in Kinshasa, Zaire. I was raised in Normandy, a small town in France, and I currently live in Paris. I am definitely a Parisian, I love the Parisian style. Cold colour, simple style but always chic. That's why there is so much cold colours in my artwork.

Have you studied illustration, or are you self-taught? 

I study arts but I always used to draw so I am more self-taught.

When did you start to be interested in art? As a kid I always drawn as I said. My father always told me that I must go to the Beaux-Arts when I grown up because he saw my abilities as a kid. So I always been interested by arts.

How would you define your personal style ? I am the most classic Parisian girl lol so my style too. I love simple colours, very minimalist style.

Your illustrations are showing beautiful black women with big fashion styles confidence. They’re are wonderful! How do you get ideas and inspiration for your illustrations? I actually draw what I love to wear or what I have. I love fashion so I follow many fashion website but definitely my own style inspired my drawing.

Could you tell us a little bit about your creative process when starting an illustration? How long does it take to complete a drawing? I start by drawing then add colour, watercolour or digital painting. It can take 1 hour or many days, so it depends .

What artwork do you have hanging in your house? I have my kids artwork and mark Rothko too and 2 mine.

What do you listen to when you’re working? I love to listen to podcasts, or some Americans shows ... it helps to practise my English lol

What would be your ideal commission? My ideal commission is for someone I love and admire or someone who inspired and believe in my artwork. 

You announce the official Sprung x Nicholle Kobi 2017 Tour, sound exciting! What can people expected to see?  Yeah I do :) ! There will have my favourites pieces! But also new illustrations, the most important for me is to meet people who support me and love what I do it's the best way to say thank you to them. And also talk and exchange about our experiences. 

See Nicholle Kobi's illustrations: https://nichollekobi.com/

Vanity Afro, 01/02/2017

Be happy, do the best you can, be good and kind. X

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