Tom Camp

My names Tom Camp, I’m 23 years old and I’m living and working in London. I graduated with a degree in Illustration from Norwich Art School in 2011.

When did you decide you wanted to be illustrator?
I wouldn’t say I ever sat down and decided that I was an illustrator, I’m not completely comfortable calling myself an illustrator. I don’t really do commissions, tending more to just make prints and be parts of joint exhibitions.

Would you recommend studying at art school?
Studying at art school isn’t necessary for everyone, I personally needed it and it’s a great time to meet people who you will most probably work with after you graduate. I’ve found the art and design world is so close nit that I often bump into people I went to uni with.

How long was it before illustration became your primary form of income?
Illustration isn’t my primary income yet, but I quite like it that way. I work as a screen printer for the rest of week and manage a boutique shop in Shoreditch as well. It’s great because all three feed into each other.

Could you describe your typical day?
Depends what day of the week it is, most of the week i get up at 7am and go to the studio in Bethnal Green. My boss will give me ideas of prints and products he wants making and I will make them and help with colour choices. It’s in the evenings and during the cycle home I work on ideas for new work.

What’s the best thing about being an illustrator?
The best thing for me is when you make a new prints, and people actually want to put it in their homes (and pay money for it)

What’s the worst thing about being an illustrator?
Is there a bad part? Maybe the pressure I put on myself to make new work?

If you weren’t an illustrator, what would you be?
If i wasn’t an illustrator or print maker, I’d probably be a historian or something like that. I’m fascinated by the past.

Any other tips you could share?
Umm. I’d just say enjoy making new stuff because if its not fun then theres no point.

www.campillustration.co.uk