Alumni success ‘spotlight’ interview with Kevin Brackley

We are so proud of our Make Art That Sells Alumni, that we are pleased to be publishing a series of spotlight interviews showcasing their successes and artwork. We also ask them to share how the MATS courses have helped them learn and grow. You can see more Alumni Success stories here

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Today, we have an interview with alumni Kevin Brackley

Tell us a little about how you got started in art and design

I’ve always been interested in art and design, although I’ve had no “formal” training in it, apart from a desire to learn and experiment. I studied visual merchandising and enjoyed seeing how you could tell a story with products as well as apparel. I became more interested in design and the endless possibilities of design software and have spent thousands of hours honing my skills through online tutorials. I’ve never viewed this as studying as it’s something I thoroughly enjoy and still continue to do (you never stop learning!).

Lilla always says “People buy your joy.” What brings you joy?’

Which is your favorite market(s) to design for and why?

I don’t think I have a favourite market. I’d like to see my designs across a range of products in various markets. My patterns suit stationery, packaging, home decor as well as apparel.

What are you working on currently?

Currently I’m working on my portfolio for Surtex 2016. I’m fortunate to be exhibiting for the first time with other members of the Four Corners Art Collective. We launched in November 2015 and four of us will be showing at Surtex. It’s exciting but also a little daunting as there’s so much to think of!

What are some of the key things you have learnt from the MATS experience?

I think one of the key things is not to be afraid to experiment and try new things. This is a challenge for me as you often get stuck in your comfort zone and can become complacent in how you create art. I tend to be afraid to “make mistakes” but MATS actually encouraged me to be less self-conscious and to just have a go! You don’t know until you try!

How have the classes helped your artwork evolve /grow?

Seeing other people’s art and designs in the Facebook group opened my eyes to the myriad ways that different artists interpret the same brief. It encouraged me to think outside the box and research new methods.

Any aha moments during MATS you would like to share?

Again I’d probably say it was the encouragement that there’s no right or wrong way of doing something, and that it’s perfectly fine to “make mistakes”.

What are your key successes since taking a MATS class?

Winning a typographic challenge in the Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design e-course. My prize was a free place on the next course which further helped to increase my knowledge. I’d also count becoming a member of the Four Corners Art Collective and the opportunity of exhibiting at Surtex to be successes. And I managed to get one of my designs into the calendar for issue 28 of Uppercase Magazine!

How would you describe taking a MATS class to a fellow artist looking to develop their art

It gives you the encouragement and freedom to experiment and push you and your art to new heights. There’s such a supportive community of artists at all different stages of their careers that are always willing to provide constructive advice. You also have the opportunities to design to trends and other current subject matter.

What is your dream gig for your artwork?