Interview: Kingsley Nebechi

Kingsley Nebechi is a UK-based graphic designer, illustrator and artist. He always dreamt of being able to draw all day.

Once he found his own voice and convinced his parents it was a good idea, he didn't look back.

Can you explain your job in two sentences? 

A visual author of an idea, narrative or a specific message. I enjoy telling various stories and drinking a warm cup of coffee or tea while I’m at it. Sometimes it feels like I’m illustrating my imagination directly onto paper.

What’s a typical workday for you? 

Most days vary based on the nature of what projects are on my schedule, but the best time to create is usually early in the morning. Afternoons are usually for email follow-ups, client feedback and discussions about new projects. Anything can happen during the day to completely change my tasks especially if a client needs artwork done in a tight deadline.

At the end of the day I like to look over what I made that day and write notes about what needs to be done the day after. Being freelance gives you a bit more of a chance to accommodate and organise your needs depending on the task at hand.

What are the perks? 

Being able to hold a physical object I designed for is such a great feeling. I also really enjoy seeing various people interact with my work at my events and exhibitions but witnessing the process of creating art from start to finish will always be the perk I adore the most.

What are the challenges?

At times, the deadlines for an assignment can be pretty tight but I do love the challenges that come with each project and its requirements. It’s always a great opportunity to see how far I can push my own creativity by exploring different ways of getting things done.

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Finding your own voice is tough and a little confusing at first but the answer is always within you.

What are you most proud of?

Being able to develop my own artistic voice, my own style, my own way of working the process. Years ago, as a student, it was pretty hard to work out what type of work I wanted to create. I found myself studying other artists and what made them and their work special. I eventually started exploring my own inspirations and the things I love. Finding your own voice is tough and a little confusing at first but the answer is always within you.

How did you get into doing what you do? Were there hurdles along the way?  

There were a few hurdles but Initially, the biggest one was convincing my parents that I wanted to be a creative for a living. It took a while to get them on board but they eventually understood what I wanted to do. One of the most meaningful moments was leaving my full time job to go freelance. Adjusting wasn’t easy but I’m glad I gave it a chance!

Is this the career you thought you’d have? 

When I was in younger I always dreamed of being able to draw all day long. As an adult I’m grateful that I get to draw everyday through a profession I have a passion for.

Who do you look to for inspiration? 

I look at a lot of comic books, movie posters and magazine covers. I also find a lot of inspiration from everyday life when I’m out and about.

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Trust yourself and believe in your skills. Don’t be afraid to experiment with things whenever you feel have the chance. Get to know yourself better as a creative and enjoy the process.

What advice would you offer someone wanting to break into the industry? 

Trust yourself and believe in your skills. Don’t be afraid to experiment with things whenever you feel have the chance. Get to know yourself better as a creative and enjoy the process. There aren’t any exact step by step guides you can follow but you can get to work, make your own path and thrive in it.

Follow Kingsley Nebechi: Website & Instagram

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