Name three artists whose work inspires you.
Isabelle Arsenault, Vanessa Brantley Newton, Julie Morstad

Which artistic period would you most like to visit and why?
The era when Herge was creating TinTin.

Who or what inspired you to become an illustrator?
I have always liked making things and writing. In a children’s story writing class, I made a dummy book and the instructor suggested I illustrate my own work. It was the first time I had ever considered illustrating. Thank you Carol-Ann Sokoloff for planting this seed.

Can you share a photo of your creative work space or part of the area where you work most often? Talk us through it.
I live in a very small house (420sq feet) so space is precious. My creative work space has shifted and transformed over time. I have mostly worked at the dining table until I recently reclaimed that piece of furniture and created a work nook. This area is filled with books and art supplies. The floor is covered in movement tools! I try hard to not be too messy but I often fail at this and learn to live with a controlled mess!

When I work in collage, mixed media and in Procreate, I really like moving parts around to get the right fit and set up for the illustration. I also really like to work with scissors.

What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator?
Find a way to develop a community of illustrators in person and on-line. You will learn so much and can find mentors and collaborators.

Annely describes herself as an Outdoorsy girl, dancer of sorts, music maker, writer, illustrator, photographer, educator, hacker of many things and general mischief seeker. Find her on Vancouver Island.

For more information, please follow Annely on instagram.