Meet a Maker - Mr Woody Woods

Mr Woody Woods kindly came in store to paint live for our Leeds canvas project. We caught up with him via email to find out a little bit more about him.

Tell us about what you have created for our canvas project?

Your canvas project was great for me as it forced me to work on a larger scale than I usually do. I wanted to create a really striking, intricate line drawing and decided on developing one of my characters - a very hairy gentleman with fish swimming in his beard.

Which materials did you use and why?

I used a black Posca pen – which I use a lot in my work. I chose the neon pink background as I thought it would stand out the most against a black line drawing.

Where do you make most of your work?

I have a studio at home where I do most of my work, but you'll always find me with a sketchbook in my backpack - I like to doodle wherever I am.

What are your favourite creative tools?

I like to experiment with different types of pens and pencils as well as translating my drawings into layered paper cut outs. At the moment I’ve just started working in pyrography, drawing with a hot iron onto wood, it gives off a great smell but is hotter than the sun. I also really enjoy making short videos whilst I’m working, focusing on the processes used in creating my work.

Who are your biggest creative influences?

I think Jean Jullien and Hattie Stewart are great- they both have a simple, individual style that stands out from the crowd.

If you could only use one material in your work, what would it be and why?

Tricky one as I like working across different mediums, but if pushed I would have to use the humble V sign pen. It’s a simple marker that's super smooth to draw with.

What was the best exhibition or art event you went to last year?

Living in Manchester there’s always something going on, I really enjoy spending time in the Whitworth gallery, events put on by the Manchester Moleskin team and also visiting the Manchester Print Fair which showcased some amazing work from local illustrators.

If you had a tip for artists starting out, what would it be?

Get your work out there, by any means possible – I’ve found Instagram and Twitter to be invaluable tools in promoting my work. Also be proactive about finding projects to get involved in as you never know where they might lead. Instagram - @misterwoodywoods Twitter - @woodywoods Website - http://misterwoodywoods.myportfolio.com/