Lauren Martin is an illustrator from New York City whose retro-inspired artwork creates characters out of everyday objects and imagines that flowers and fruit may have rich lives beyond what the human eye can see. Her artwork has appeared in the New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, as well as collaborations with brands like Mullberry, Only NY, and of course, Cirque Colors! When she isn't drawing, she also plays synth and guitar in the indie rock band, Frankie Cosmos.
When did you start illustrating and how did you get into it?
I've always drawn my whole life, I used to draw cartoon characters in the margins of my elementary school homework, and I made comics in high school so drawing has always been a huge passion of mine. When I got to college I majored in Textile/Surface design and got really into screen-printing t-shirts and from there my style began evolving to what it is now.
When did you find your distinct artistic style?
I think I've always had a distinct style but it's had many different iterations on its journey to where it is now. I used to draw much more realistically, and I almost always drew people -- but while drawing from life I learned a lot about proportion, anatomy, and light that still inform my current, more cartoony style.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get inspiration from everywhere! Movies, music, conversations, nature. I'm also really inspired by the work of Milton Glaser, Hayao Miyazaki, and retro cartoons.
What shows have you been watching lately?
I just finished watching Call My Agent -- I've been following the series for a few years and this last season was my favorite! I also watch Seinfeld reruns basically every day haha!
What’s one way you treat yourself?
I try and paint my nails every Friday and I also make a real point to never skip my skincare routine! And, once a week, I try to walk to my favorite bakery for an espresso and a baked good -- usually a perfect chocolate chip cookie.
Top 3 Cirque Colors products?
Subculture, Cool Blast & The Dotting Tools!
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