Artist of the Month - Libby Bess

This month, we’re delighted to introduce Libby Bess as our Artist of the Month, a whimsical alternative illustrator based in Leamington Spa. Drawing inspiration from the rich visual language of Japanese culture and the quiet beauty of the English countryside, Libby’s work combines intricate detail with dreamlike imagination. From delicate florals to expressive figures, her illustrations invite you into a world that feels both deeply personal and quietly magical. 

Q. Where have you found inspiration lately?

A. My holiday in Japan in January this year was half in Tokyo and half in rural Japan. There were hot springs, mountains, temples, misty mornings, and illuminated city nights. I come back inspired every time I go. I’m inspired every day by beautiful Warwickshire too; I’ve been taking photos of flowers that are out at the moment for future reference!

Q. Is there a piece of art or a project that you are particularly excited about right now?

A. Yes! I’m working on a ceramics project at the moment: 8 small vases. They are all white clay, which I’m painting with black underglaze. I’m still a rookie when it comes to ceramics – I feel much more comfortable with a piece of paper! Fingers crossed the kiln gods are on my side.

Q. What kinds of tools or references do you like to use when creating artwork?

A. Actually, I deliberately try not to have references right in front of me when I’m drawing. I have an active imagination, and I like to let it fill in the blanks as much as possible; that way, I feel like I’m putting a little bit of ‘me’ into each artwork. Outside of the creating process, though, I have a bunch of reference books bought from various markets and charity shops of butterflies, flowers, and leaves… they are always good for getting my ideas whirring.

Q. What artists or artworks (from your life or art history) do you admire or consider influential to your work & why?

A. My mum is a big Aubrey Beardsley and William Morris fan, so their work seeped into mine growing up without me noticing, and I love them to this day. In terms of artists I’ve discovered over the years… contemporary Japanese artists such as Takato Yamamoto, Sugawa Makiko, and Yoshitaka Amano capture my heart. I have lots of their art on my shelves (and walls).

Q. What advice do you have for other new or aspiring artists?

A. Gosh, I don’t really feel like I’m in a place to be offering advice! I guess if it was something, it would be to not be afraid of creative blocks. I’ve gone months at times where I just haven’t had the ideas or motivation to draw anything, and sure enough, it comes back eventually. I see lots of posts on social media to ‘draw something every day’ – but not everyone works like that! You do you.

Q. Professionally, what has been your biggest achievement so far?

A. There were a few years where I exhibited in a summer art show in Dunchurch, Rugby. The second year there, I sold one of my big original drawings. That was a highlight in itself, but then the next year the same lady came back and wanted to buy another one! I think at shows, most customers will only ever see/buy from you once, but for someone to come back… that really meant a lot.

Q. What is your first memory of creating art?

A. Growing up, drawing and making things was an everyday part of life, being raised by a creative parent (thanks, Mum!!), so I don’t have a significant first memory… drawing patterns with Spirographs… making Pokemon with Fimo… cosplay props with papier-mâché… designing posters for World Book Day… lots of happy memories.

Q. How do you spend your time when you’re not creating artwork?

A. I love a brunch! Going out early in the mornings, walking to a cosy coffee shop, and spending time eating is my happy place. I also love playing video games, getting tattoos, or visiting family.

Q. What work do you most enjoy doing?

A. Drawing on my iPad is fun because you can click undo when you’re not happy! In that sense, it’s enjoyable because it’s not as stressful as drawing on paper – which is very unforgiving but more rewarding because it’s totally unique in the world. I love drawing ladies: lady faces, lady bodies, lady figures… I could draw hair all day long and be happy!

Q. What is your dream project?

A. For many years I’ve been trying to write and illustrate a children's picture book. I have lots of ideas and have storyboarded a lot of them. I’ve even got as far as writing one of them and doing 1/3 of the illustrations. My problem is I get excited by a new idea, or an upcoming market, or something I see that inspires me, and I end up drawing that instead. I need the patience to put all those to one side and focus on a single project! Maybe one day I’ll be a published children’s book author/illustrator – that would be the dream.

Libby’s work is a celebration of imagination and personal expression, each piece carrying a sense of story and individuality that feels unmistakably her own. We’re honoured to print her beautiful illustrations and to play a small part in bringing her visions to life. You can find more of Libby’s beautiful work on her website and Instagram.