Creative people: Gemma Correll

Probably most of you already know Gemma Correll's beautiful work. I just love her illustrations and I am so honored to have her in this little interview on my blog. I am sure you will enjoy this as well! :)

1. Tell us a few things about yourself.

My name's Gemma. I'm a freelance Illustrator and I live in England with my boyfriend and beloved pug, Mr Pickles. My favorite things include cupcakes, coffee and watching the dogs getting bathed in the dog grooming parlor opposite my house.

 2. How did you decided to start a blog?
I started blogging years ago, while I was still at college. I think I started my blog in 2005, when I had no knowledge of html at all- so I had a really basic blogger template. Then over the years it has evolved. I've learned how to customise the design and linked it to my website.

3. What has been the most positive aspect of having a blog? And the worst?

The best thing about having a blog is being able to connect with other creative people. Blogging is fun because it's more casual than posting work on a website. I can post photos of Mr Pickles, or doodles or ramble on about something random like how much I love noodles (I haven't done this yet, but there's still time...). The worst thing was when somebody started to leave nasty comments on my blog, anonymously. So, I had to turn off anonymous comments.

4. What has been your biggest challenge as an artist?
Overcoming self doubt. As an artist, it's impossible to look at your own work objectively and I still really struggle with my inner voice telling me that I'm not good enough, that I should just give up and get a proper job.... I don't think it will ever go away, but I'm learning to live with it at least.

5. If you would do something else besides illustration, what would that be?
I worked as a teaching assistant for a while, working with children with special needs, and autism. I'd go back to doing that job, I loved it.

6. Do you have any favorite artists?
Too many to count! But, to name a few - Tom Gauld, Lynda Barry, Nora Krug, Graham Roumieu and Quentin Blake.
7. Do you have any advice for people that what to start an art/design blog?
Have fun with it. Customise your blog to suit your own aesthetic and don't think too hard about what you post on there. Think of it like a kind of scrapbook for your work, ideas and inspirations.