Fay Butler

Modern Muses

Fay Butler is a final year BA (Hons) Illustration student whose final project focuses on influential women.

Illustration - BA (Hons)

GIVE US A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF YOUR PROJECT

My final project is an illustrated book which aims to celebrate inspiring women who are shaping the modern world and influencing the next generation.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS CONCEPT?

I chose this project in order to bring awareness to female icons and promote female empowerment. From politicians, to directors, CEO’s and conservationists, I created 10 portraits combined with illustrated elements which represent them. The women I selected have been chosen based upon my research and are not usually covered in existing feminist themed products. This was important to me as there are a lot of women who are giving other women amazing opportunities, but are not necessarily spoken about very often. My work has always been inspired by women, one of my biggest inspirations being the artist Frida Kahlo, who was not afraid of breaking social conventions.

WHAT PROCESSES HAVE YOU BEEN USING?

I started my project by conducting research into aspects such as the target audience and existing projects/ products. This, along with creating mood boards, helps me gather ideas in order for me to start my project. To create the illustrations for the book, I wanted to create a mixed media style by combining digital and analogue techniques, using materials such as acrylic gouache and digital pencils. I used digital pencil brushes on procreate to draw the portraits in a realistic style by using techniques such as shading. I used acrylic gouache to create the semiotic elements which I scanned into Procreate and composed around the portraits. I utilised various media such as inks, watercolour and pens to create patterns for the inside of the book.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE WITH YOUR PROJECT?

I think the topic of gender equality is important to discuss and bring awareness to, and being able to communicate this within my practice is something I am passionate about. The project intends to empower women and show them the variety of possibilities for them, as shown by the featured women’s unique backgrounds and stories.

HOW HAS YOUR COURSE HELPED YOU TO PREPARE FOR WORKING ON YOUR PROJECT?

We have had various external industry speakers which gave me an insight into a future career in illustration, helping me to choose the right project for my direction. I have had constant feedback and support from tutors throughout the course which has led me to develop my style and skills in order for me to complete my final project confidently.