TINA WARDLE

I have always loved being creative, even as a young child I would spend hours immersed in painting or collaging, I especially loved making crafts from found objects and materials, a hobby that I have continued with. I also loved to illustrate the books that I read at school, in particular I clearly remember an illustration of the Iron Giant that I was very proud of. 

I always had a natural ability for observational drawing and love sketching, people, animals and landscapes which I feel influence my current work. On one particularly memorable trip I took to India and Nepal I spent many hours sketching the many amazing people and places. I was greatly influenced by the different environments, cultures, colours and pattern. I created a small booklet of sketches and used my experiences as part of my dissertation for my Illustration degree.

I have a GCSE and A Level in Art and Design and also completed Art Foundation at Nottingham Trent University. I then went on to complete a HND and BA HONS Degree in Illustration at Hereford College of Art and Design.

I have a busy life trying to manage family, two children and work commitments. I also sing in a successful ladies Barbershop chorus Gem Connection, frequently singing at social and charity events, concerts and taking part in competitions, both national and international recently winning medals in both.

I produce and sell handmade crafts and bespoke art work at local craft fairs and events. I volunteer at my local school and enjoy helping out at a local community arts centre. I also love to upcycle furniture and especially love the challenge of creating something new from found or unwanted items.

I have worked with Inspire Art Licensing for many years, mainly creating designs for gift products and packaging. I have adapted the way I work to keep up with trends and styles, always with a love for illustrating characters, colour textures and pattern. I find influence from a variety of sources and I am always looking for the latest trends on the high street and social media as well as TV and film. I also love working closely with my fellow designers, sharing ideas techniques and inspiration.