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Q&A with Adrian Mills

I draw children's books and bears

Oh hello, I'm Adrian Mills and I'm a artist and draw children's books and bears.

How did you get started in art and children's book illustration, what is your background?

I have been drawing as long as I can remember and I knew that I would always do something with my art as I do enjoy the feeling you have when you certain something. I studied at Cambridge school of art in children's book illustration.

I started a long time ago in graphic design (bc) in rugby, before computers in which I learn to draw freehand and the lay out of how's things fitted on the page.After a break (a morning postman) I went to learn foundation in Hastings before going to a BA(hons) in fine art in Sunderland and finally going to do a Masters in children book illustration in Cambridge. So a lot of studying in all areas of art.

What is a turning point in your professional career?

I have had many near turns in my art and at the moment got a very exciting project in which could change my career but I'm afraid I can't say at the moment. But I'm very excited if it comes off. But I do think that all I have learn is making me learn more in the long turn.

What is your ideal work environment? Do you work at studio all day long or prefer to mix a few activities?

I have a studio in my garden and do work in there most days but do sometimes get out and walk to get new ideas. Drawing can be a energy draining progress.

Where are your favorite places?

I live at the present time in a small village in which you don't see many people. So I like going to city's and drawing people and buildings. I do like going to Cambridge as it's got a buzz of art and London as I like drawing on trains.

Who are the designers and illustrators, colleagues you admire most?

I am always seeing new artists on Pinterest in which I always enjoy. Seeing them develop as artists and the joy they bring as their styles change.

I do admire shaun tan as I always think his work is so lovely and the stories that he writes.

I also like Oliver Jeffers as he has done so well and his stories as so amazing.