I’m from Somerset originally, drawing was basically the only thing I was good at, so I ended up at art college then did a Fine Art degree.

But it’s only in the last three years or so that I’ve concentrated on being an illustrator and worked hard to make that happen, generating a portfolio, experimenting to create my own illustration style, winning commissions myself, then last year I signed to Central Illustration Agency in London.

I live and work in Whitstable. I’m an artist and freelance illustrator and have had commissions from Faberge, ITV, Channel 5 and Bentley Motors. I also sell my own personal work privately and am currently working on producing my first limited-edition print run.

Everything I do starts with drawing. I use pencil and charcoal, loosen it up so it almost becomes like paint then I can move it around. It’s a very instinctual process as it dries within 10 minutes. I like the idea of creating marks in an unconscious way, allowing accidents and errors to happen recognising what marks work and what doesn’t is key to a successful piece.

Technology gives me flexibility within my work. I often use Photoshop to remix the drawings and sometimes use it to create the illusion of watercolour brushes adding texture and colour. Other times I use it to create a more temporary feel, harsh compositions, crops and colours sometimes bringing in photographic elements.

The key advice I’d give to aspiring artists is just grit – not giving up. But it’s important to keep pushing your own work between jobs. Give yourself a brief, create new work then when you’re happy, reach out and contact people. Research who the creative people commissioning the jobs you want are. Be yourself but polite and if they don’t reply, don’t assume they weren’t interested. People are often busy; stay confident, make more work and contact them again the following month.