Cheryl Holland Willis - Artist of the Month

Cheryl Holland Willis is the talent behind the fabulous picture of Herbie, created using Pentel's Pointliner drawing pens. These contain water- and fade-resistant pigment ink and are perfect for all types of writing, sketching and drawing. We wanted to know a little more about Cheryl, so what we did was ask her (that's the best way…)

Tell us a bit more about yourself.

I am married to Julian with two grown up children; my daughter will be having her first child soon and my son is getting married next year. I’m a graphic designer but now work in a busy secondary school in Swindon running the medical room. I create my art in the evenings and over the weekends. I have a busy life with two Labradors and a couple of cats!

 

How would you describe your work?

My work has evolved over the years, from drawing and painting to printmaking which is now my main medium of choice. I use the drypoint method of printmaking which is the intaglio process.

What got you into drawing?

My father was a very talented artist and so it’s in the genes! He was a fireman and used it as his way of relaxing.

 

If you weren’t an artist, what was the back-up plan?

I'm not a full time artist, but am looking into going part time in a couple of years and am hoping to spend the extra days ‘creating!’

 

What are your favourite subjects or topics to draw?

Wildlife and nature. 

 

Where do you get your ideas or inspiration from?

From the surrounding areas of the countryside around where I live.

What are you currently working on?

Currently I am planning designs as I will be exhibiting in Swindon Open Studios in September. I will be going to Northumberland for a holiday soon and am thinking puffins will be the next project.

 

How long does it normally take to complete a project?

It can take about a week onwards to design, create the plate for the press and then print each print, because each one is an original piece.

 

What are your top 5 pens or pencils?

I have many, many pencils and pens.... love them all! I lost a dear friend a couple of years ago to cancer and I was left his art collection, so I’m still working my way through all his equipment which always makes me think of him.

 

What pen or pencil couldn’t you live without?

A 6B pencil

 

Do you know when a work is finished or are you constantly tweaking?

With printmaking I can never stop tweaking! 

 

What work are you most proud of?

All my recent work! I finally feel as if I have found myself with this medium, although I loved creating Herbie with the Pointliner pens so I think going forwards I’ll look at creating some more of these.

 

What tips do you have for aspiring artists or designers?

Keep going, research, see exhibitions, be brave and do your own open studio!

You can see more of Cheryl's work on her website: www.cherylhollandwillis.com

20 May 2019