Isobelle Ouzman
Sleepless in Seattle
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Dear Isobelle,
Your imagination takes us on a fantasy world bringing back sweet childhood memories of fairy tales, inquisitive minds, and innocent souls. What were your favorite books as a child? Who are your favorite authors and what books do you like now? There is a magical quality to books that I have gravitated towards ever since I was much younger. I have always been very shy. When I moved to America from England at age thirteen, books were my escape. I owe my pursuit of art to the imagination I developed through reading. |
photo: courtesy of the artist |
The first book I remember being drawn to most was Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter. I moved on to the Grimm’s Fairy Tales as I got a little older. I also read an endless amount of stories about gnomes and fairies - those will always have a special place in my heart.
My book choices now are fairly similar. Franz Kafka’s work, especially the story “Metamorphosis”, has been a favorite since discovering him when I was eighteen. I tend to lean towards darker tales that make me think and twist my perception of things.
Your illustrations are so intricate. Do you do a lot of research or do you let your imagination lead you step by step to the final stage?
As a day-dreamer with a wild imagination, most my ideas come from a wandering mind and I let that guide me through my work rather than research different subjects or images.
Although, if there is something specific I want in a drawing, like a plant or animal, I usually grab a book and flip through the pictures for reference.
Book commissions are definitely different and do require some sort of research, unless the commissioner gives me the freedom to create something of my own choice. Those commissions are the best.
My book choices now are fairly similar. Franz Kafka’s work, especially the story “Metamorphosis”, has been a favorite since discovering him when I was eighteen. I tend to lean towards darker tales that make me think and twist my perception of things.
Your illustrations are so intricate. Do you do a lot of research or do you let your imagination lead you step by step to the final stage?
As a day-dreamer with a wild imagination, most my ideas come from a wandering mind and I let that guide me through my work rather than research different subjects or images.
Although, if there is something specific I want in a drawing, like a plant or animal, I usually grab a book and flip through the pictures for reference.
Book commissions are definitely different and do require some sort of research, unless the commissioner gives me the freedom to create something of my own choice. Those commissions are the best.
Do you listen to music while you work? What art events do you enjoy aside from work and illustrations for your book projects?
I love listening to music while I work! I guess I’m a little bit of a “metal head” and enjoy a loud session of Iron Maiden or Mercyful Fate. I am very open to all kinds of music, though. Lately I have been listening to Pink Floyd, The Doors and Julianna Hatfield.
Besides my work on the books and illustrations, I enjoy checking out new shows around Seattle – both visual and music. I have also recently been introduced to movies (I have always focused more on reading, so I am behind) and am having fun catching up on old classics with a buddy.
You mention working long hours at a print shop. Do your colleagues know they have a genius in their midst? Who are the people who encourage you most to continue your book illustrations to make it your full time gig?
I do work at a print shop, and most are aware that I would much rather be home drawing. Though I am definitely not a genius! I have been working there about five years and enjoy it, mostly because of the people I have come to know and grow up around.
We’re a small business and I appreciate being able to feel comfortable around them. They constantly encourage me to bring in things I am working on, and send out links to all their friends whenever I am mentioned in something online. I love them.
But yes, having art be my full time gig is the aim, and they’re pushing for that too, it just hasn’t been so easy.
What would you say to the HocTok community? What keeps you inspired, motivated, and what do you see in the horizon for yourself and your work?
I mostly just want everyone to know how appreciative I am of the support and recognition. I have only recently begun sharing my work with people (still shy!) and the amount of positive feedback I have received lately has been a great motivation. Also inspiring!
I love that I can share the images in my head and connect with someone else through them. I never want to stop creating.
