Inspiring Smiles with Mei Støyva

Can you tell us about your background and how you first became interested in art?

“I was very fortunate to have been born into a creative family, so choosing a creative career was always encouraged and supported. Since I grew up in a house filled with art, books, and instruments, there wasn’t ever really a time when I wasn’t interested in art. As a teen I developed an interest in graphic design and decided I wanted to study abroad. I moved to the UK to study, got headhunted after graduating, and decided after a few years working in the industry that I wanted to go freelance. The rest, as they say, is history!”

Who or what are your biggest inspirations for your work?

“In terms of inspiration, there are so many great artists I could list! Some of my go-tos include: Allison Black, Joey Chou, Annette Marnat and Alain Grée. I also have a great fondness for vintage/mid-century design and illustration, as well as cute Asian art. Lastly, I'd like to mention one of my all time favourite picture books from my childhood, 'White Goose Girl' illustrated by Wu Jinglu.”
“In terms of influence, there is a lot of tragedy and sadness in the world, so — although it might seem a little trite or banal — one thing that influences me when making art is a desire to make something that might bring someone joy or put a smile on their faces, even if it's just for a moment. To me, this is one of the greatest things about making art — if I can use my talents to bring a little brightness into the world, I'll be happy.”

How has your style evolved over time, and what factors have influenced this evolution?

“I'm always experimenting with my art and have always struggled to stick to just one style — the truth is I'm far too easily influenced by everything I see and often find myself being pulled in all sorts of directions! Generally speaking though, I want my art to be bolder, more dynamic and simpler, so these are the goals I try to have in mind when I work.”

Do you have any rituals or routines that help you get into a creative mindset?

“My methods tend to depend on the type of brief that I'm working on, so I don't know that I really have any rituals or routines that I go through. I'd say looking at reference materials, jotting down lists of ideas, and drawing rough thumbnail sketches with pen on paper are some things I find really useful when trying to get into a creative mindset.”

Can you share your current playlist?

“I've just been listening to Louie Zong's 'Rat Taxi' on repeat lately, haha! I don't really make playlists, but I've also been listening to a lot of nobonoko lately, as well as the 'Castle of Cagliostro' soundtrack composed by Yuji Ohno. I also love listening to my brother Fred Støyva's music — his EP, 'Evoke', never fails to make me cry with how beautiful it is, and the track he made for our latest game, 'Matchsums', is perfect easy listening. Lastly, I'd like to mention 'Neutron Star' by Jan Wilhelm Morthenson.”

What's your favourite thing about being a freelance creative?

“My favourite thing is the freedom it grants me — I love being able to choose when and how much I work, and having the leeway to decide when to rest if I feel like I might burn out. I consider myself very lucky to lead this kind of life.”

Do you have a favourite piece you've created? Something close to your heart?

“I'm very proud of the cards I've created for Lagom Design, and I hope everyone will love them as much as I do! Aside from that, I'm also very fond of this illustration I made of my mother and me in a snowy landscape, inspired by the snowy landscapes of Norway.”

What would be your dream collaboration?

“Collaborating with Lagom Design was actually my dream for many years, so I was very happy when you reached out to me about creating a range for you! Aside from this, I'd love to create a Christmas tin for Marks & Spencer someday, or illustrate a children's book for Nosy Crow.”