Hello, how are you?
I’m super excited to be introducing a new monthly interview post ‘With What Do I dOOdle?’. I love using all sorts of things to draw and I’m always up for a favourite tools chat, SO I’m setting out to ask some fellow creatives what they like to use!
I’m DELIGHTED to be kicking these off with the FAB author/illustrator Ruby Wright.
Ruby is an illustrator who tries to draw from life every day. Her new book Animal Crackers (Rocket Bird Books) is out now. You can read lots more about Ruby here.
Without further ado here is…
Ruby Wright!
What’s your favourite thing to draw?
I particularly love drawing my kids, especially when they are playing. She doesn't let me any more, but I used to draw my daughter playing with her Barbies, she speaks to them in this little tiny voice. She would let me draw her only if I had headphones on so I couldn't hear what she was saying, but now I'm not even allowed in the room!
Where is your favourite place to draw?
I often draw on the train or bus or tube, but my very favourite place to draw is at the dentist's. I started the hashtag #drawingmykidsatthedentist to encourage other people to join in too! My daughter just told me she needs to have her eyes tested. My first thought was "great, I can draw her at the opticians!". If I go anywhere new I immediately want to draw. But never in the countryside. It's too pretty already. I like to draw silly, messy, urban places. With people in them.
What’s your favourite thing to draw on?
Royal Talens sketchbooks. They're great quality, less expensive than similar looking sketchbooks and have lovely cream paper. I use an A4 book but when I first started I worked much smaller which was less intimidating.
What’s your top favourite tool to draw with?
Caran D'Ache Luminance pencils are my go-to.
Do you have a favourite COMBO of tools you use?
I like to lay down flat colour underneath the details, so I adore kids' paint sticks, and also water soluble graphite. Then I can put my Luminance pencils on top.
Is there a tool you always avoid?
I really wish I could paint. Sometimes I take paints out to sketch with but if I have my familiar materials with me the paint ALWAYS stays in the bag!
Is there a drawing tool you’d LOVE to try?
I guess I should have a go at procreate? I have zero interest in drawing digitally but know it would speed up the process immeasurably.
And finally
What’s your TOP favourite drawing snack?
If there is a snack in my bag I will eat it immediately. Before I even start drawing. Leftovers from last night's dinner usually. But if I'm in the studio or at home, a hot crumpet with butter and marmite and a cup of tea please!
And just for you, here is…
Inspired by Ruby’s optician excitement here are some SPECS to sketch. I tried a different pen for each style, and used an old envelope (obviously 🫣) but would love to see how you do it!
Head to ‘chat’ here on Substack to upload a picture ☺️ OR send them over on the old INSTA @lisastickley_studio
Happy Wednesday!
Really loved reading this!! Made me smile as my daughter also used to speak in a little voice Ruth her dolls! Such previous memories! ❤️
I love the fact you enjoy drawing at the dentists and hopefully soon the opticians!!
I also like the fact you stick to a traditional way of working - it’s why your work is beautiful with a naive quality! Xx