Help me to grow Marina Studio!

As it did for many, 2020 spurred on some big changes in my life.

After leaving my previous career at the start of last year and finding myself at a bit of a loss for what to do next I naturally came back to drawing to help me move one foot in front of the other in quiet lockdown days.

To begin with, it was a way to self-soothe, for relaxation. Creating something new artistically and bringing it into the world has always been a go-to tool to keep my spirits high. 

I started to share some of this new work on social media and people (a lot of you!) were very complimentary and enthusiastic. I picked up some commissions and started to sell some prints, eventually setting up an online shop. Prints soon were joined by greetings cards and wrapping paper as I began to get into my stride and my confidence grew. Things really have just snowballed from there. Importantly, I started to take myself seriously again as an illustrator and designer.

I have never felt better about myself and surer of my path, this in itself is a pretty radical feeling for me! At this point, I’d like to say thank you to everyone who has supported me in one way or another over the last year. Your gestures of support, whether that be buying from me, commissioning me, or sending me messages or notes of encouragement have quite literally changed my life.

Now, I’m looking to the next year. I’ve got the gumption and gusto to make some big next steps.

I hope to expand my product range to include a selection of handcrafted lifestyle items, made with well-considered materials and processes; all with an illustrated edge, these items will all live under the ‘Marina Studio’ brand. 

I would like to begin creating:

• Illustrated wallpapers (created with environmentally friendly inks and papers)
• Hand-tufted rugs and wall-hangings
• Functional ceramics (hand painted with my bold monochrome patterns) 

All the pieces in the collection will have my identifiable style and a cohesive look. There will likely be lots of deep charcoal, oatmeal, sage, and terracotta tones. My products will be made with care for the Earth, in small, less wasteful, and limited batches, and made with responsible materials.

I have a clear vision, but not the initial financial platform to get it all going. 

I don’t need a huge amount of money. Just enough to buy some new equipment, materials, and some time for me to create my first range.  

I would then like to create a collaborative studio space and shop to sell these products alongside other local illustrators and artists who have a penchant for creating beautiful illustrative home decor. I truly believe in the power of a supportive and creative community and would love to create a space-based on empowerment, trust, and unity.