Dreaming up images of self love and spirituality

We spoke to Philly based illustrator Loveis Wise who has worked with the likes of Refinery29, Wieden+Kennedy and Buzzfeed to name a few. Hear how she developed her style and made an impact in a highly competitive industry.

Your illustration style is really unique, when did you begin to develop the style you have now?

I developed my style about 2 years ago! Before I would experiment with various ways to exaggerate and refine my figures in my sketchbook, soon this style was born and it felt natural to me.
 

Where do you go to find inspiration?

I find inspiration through my friends and studio mates but mainly through going to museums, everyday life, researching art history, and of course, the internet/social media!

Illustration is a highly competitive field what would you say has been the hardest part of your career so far, and how did you overcome (if any) struggles?

Hugely competitive! Luckily I haven’t had any major struggles outside of keeping track of the business & financial side of freelancing but after getting lots of business advice and an accountant, it was resolved and I feel much more comfortable.
 

What subjects do you choose to illustrate for your own personal projects?

My personal work is often built on my own experiences with mental health & being comfortable with my body, spirituality, and my dreams.

How important do you believe it is to make time for personal projects?

Very important! My personal work usually informs ideas I create in my professional work but it also allows me to explore different styles or images I want to create. Also, when you do personal pieces, you’re free to mess up and go wild without someone critiquing what you make in the moment.

If you're not illustrating what would we find you doing?

Mainly replying to emails or hanging with friends or my partner. I also love anything music-related, so I try to go to shows as often as I can!

What's the one thing you wish you would have known when starting a career in illustration?

I wish I would have known that it’s okay to say “no” sometimes and to not overextend yourself. It’s okay to take a break sometimes and you should never feel guilty about taking care of yourself and your mental health.
 

Finally, what one piece of advice would you give someone starting their career in illustration?

Own a sketchbook and draw as much as you can, don’t be afraid reach out to your favourite art directors & illustrators, and always put yourself out there!

Credits

Words by: Swakara Atwell-Bennett
Interviewee: Loveis Wise
Instagram: @loveiswiseillu