Ruby Taylor is an illustrator and designer hailing from the West Country. Since graduating from Bristol UWE in 2012, she has worked on a whole host of exciting projects and product ranges. Her work brings energy and fun to any surface, from print design to editorial illustration to live illustration and murals. Her impressive client list includes Vogue UK, L'Occitane, and Google. We got up close and personal (digitally, of course) to find out more about her life and work.
WHERE DO YOU CALL HOME?
I moved back to Bristol last Summer. I had been in Essex and London for about eight years, but The South West was calling me home!
CAN YOU GIVE A TOP TIP FOR VISITORS TO YOUR HOME TOWN, A HIDDEN GEM OR FAVOURITE SHOP?
It's a bit tricky at the moment as I haven't been able to do a lot in Bristol since I've been back, as it's pretty much been total lockdown! My favourite lockdown things have been a walk around Arnos Vale Cemetery - its so beautiful, and you feel totally out of the city for a moment. Takeaways from Eat Your Greens, an amazing vegan restaurant in Totterdown, the Sunday roasts are divine.
WHAT MUSIC ARE YOU LISTENING TO AT THE MOMENT?
I'm quite into disco lately, I need feel-good music at the moment, and you can't get much better than disco for that.
WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING AT THE MOMENT?
I'm reading 'Thursday Murder Club'! I love getting stuck into a book, but I find it quite hard not to get distracted by my phone. I read best when I'm on holiday, and I don't feel the need to keep checking my emails.
HOW DID LOCKDOWN AFFECT YOUR CREATIVITY?
Initially, I didn't really feel like doing anything. But I can't go a year without being creative, though, so I had to get myself together! After an initial slump, work has gone back to normal, so it's all systems go, which I'm really thankful for. Being busy helps keep my mind off the pandemic.
DID YOU DISCOVER ANY NEW TALENTS OR HOBBIES DURING LOCKDOWN?
Our new house is a total renovation project, so I have been DIY-ing. A lot of paint stripping with a heat gun!
WHICH ARTIST'S WORK DO YOU ASPIRE TO HANG ON YOUR WALL?
I love Mary Fedden's paintings. I would love to own one.
CATS OR DOGS?
Dogs every time. I have a Chihuahua x Jack Russell pooch called Eddie, and he's an absolute brat.
WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE LAGOM CARD?
I LOVE the new Molly Egan ones with faces; I couldn't pick which one though.
We'd like to thank Ruby for taking the time to chat with us. Check out her latest designs for us by clicking here.