BA (Hons) Fashion Illustration alumna Valerie Servais splits her time between London and Barcelona working on several editorials, private clients and contributing to fashion media giant SHOWstudio. We talk to Valerie about her work, studying at LCF and what inspires her art.
Illustration from 2013 of Peter Pilotto SS14 collection.
What made you want to study illustration?
I’ve always drawn since I was young and it didn’t resonate with me to study drawing until someone on my foundation course asked me why I didn’t I study Illustration for my BA – and I thought – I would really like that!
Why did you choose LCF and London?
I saw that there was a Fashion Illustration course at LCF which got me interested to apply. My first introduction to fashion as an art form came through my flatmate in halls and I became keen to venture into this field that I didn’t know and that I was not involved with growing up.
Illustration by Valerie Servais.
How would you describe your style?
I’m always thinking about lines when I draw – lots of lines.
Who are your idols, and where do you draw inspiration from?
I draw my inspiration mainly from storytellers. I listen frequently to podcasts like The Moth or Meet the Composer and listen to all these different stories and observe the way they articulate themselves. One of my favourite storytellers has been Andrew Solomon.
Martin Margiela for Showstudio.
What were the most important things you learned while at LCF, did the course prepare you for the industry?
It taught me to be independent with my work and showed me what illustration and design could stretch out to. The education system and London in general was a completely different to what I was used to, which was refreshing and has changed me in many ways.
Do you just illustrate fashion, or do you touch on political or social issues for example?
I don’t solely illustrate fashion but most of it not many people have seen.
Illustration by Valerie Servais.
Kris Van Assche AW15
What’s your favourite environment to illustrate in?
I know this is a little boring but my favourite environment to illustrate in is preferably alone with one light on. But it can be anywhere.
Valentino AW15
What’re your plans for the future, have you ever dreamt of illustrating someone or something?
At the moment I am interested in digital illustrations. I would like to explore/develop this on my own and see what comes out of it.
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