Sophie Heywood’s illustrations speak to our inner child. Cute (but not overly), colorful, and uplifting, her aesthetic is inspired by pop culture and animals, with references to both throughout her work. A self-proclaimed “nerdy gal,” she graduated from the University of Central Lancashire in 2014 with a degree in illustration.
Now working full time as a freelance illustrator, her clients include Walker Books, Arts Council England, and The Guardian. But Heywood also runs her own Etsy shop, where she sells her own stuff.
“I started doing freelance illustration and set up my Etsy store back in 2013,” she told the Printed blog. “Back then I didn’t have many products or sense of direction, but my business and portfolio has since continued to grow more and more.” Her illustrations can now be found on anything from limited edition prints and greeting cards to badges, pins, and tote bags.
“I feel like nowadays with social media it doesn’t feel as lonely,” she reflected in the interview. “I’m part of a lot of online communities now and feel much more connected to my peers. I think it helps to understand that even the people you look up to are also struggling.”
We recommend you follow her on Instagram.
