For this week's Student Story, we caught up with Anna Denise Floor. She studied Illustrating for Books Online Short Course with the hopes of finding inspiration and challenging herself. Read on to see what she told us...
Where are you from and what do you do?
I am from Utrecht, The Netherlands. I work in marketing at Catawiki, an online platform for buying and selling special objects (including art!). On the side I am also an illustrator and momma to two little boys.
What short course did you study on and why did you choose it?
I did the short course called 'Illustrating for books' taught by Leni Kauffman. I picked it because I'm interested in doing more editorial illustrations, but found myself a bit uninspired and in need of a challenge. I have a full and busy life, and I find it hard to make time to create portfolio pieces without an extra incentive, and thought a short course may help!
What did you enjoy most about your short course?
A few things! I liked that we had live sessions (that I could plan for and take time out of my evening) and got individual feedback from the instructor. I don't have a lot of people around me who would give me actual feedback, so that was very welcome and inspired me to work harder and improve. I also really enjoyed that she picked different topics each week and showed us lots of different artists and examples of how to approach the topic (such as how different artists interpret travel illustration). I wrote down at least 10 names of wonderful artists I didn't know yet each session.
How has this short course benefited your career and personal development?
I have three new pieces of work that I really enjoyed making and have gone straight into my portfolio! It's also given me a few more directions to think about in terms of where I'd like my work to go from here!
What would you say to someone who is thinking about taking a short course at UAL Short Courses?
Do it! Worth the investment time and money-wise. Make sure you do the homework, participate in class, and this could be a nice refresher for amateurs and professionals alike!
What do you believe is integral to the work of an artist, in any discipline?
Authenticity to your own experience, and openness to the experiences of others.
What three words best describe your short course experience at UAL?
Motivational, inspirational, a nice break from mom-life!
Anna's Illustrations
If you are feeling inspired, make sure to check-out our upcoming Book Illustration Online Short Course and Illustrating for Books Online Short Course.
We also have plenty of Illustration short courses for every level and interest! Check-out our What can I expect on an illustration course? story.
