Megan Yaxley- Animator, Illustrator and Artist
How have you remained creative during lockdown?
I’ve managed to stay quite creative throughout the lockdown period. However, when I’ve felt a little stumped with what to do next, I’ve taken myself out for a walk or a bike ride to find new inspiration.
Has your creative practice changed at all during lock down?
I’ve been conscious to try out techniques and subject matter’s that I’m not as confident in. I’ve been trying out portraiture in gouache paints, animating in oil pastels, and even embroidery. I’ve found experimenting with different materials like this to be really important for developing myself as an artist.
How have you found it working from home?
I’m lucky enough to have a studio space at home, so working from home during lockdown has not been so different from usual. It’s keeping to a regular routine that I’ve found the trickiest, especially on sunny days.
Do you have any advice for those people that are getting creative at home during this time?
Just keep at it, even if you’re not happy with your first attempt at something creative try to not give up on it. I think because of social media and Instagram especially it’s really easy to compare yourself to what other people are doing and think what you’re doing isn’t ‘good enough’. But it’s important to understand that everyone has their own way of expressing themselves, so just go for it and enjoy discovering your own process of creating.
Favourite music to work to during lockdown.
During lockdown, I’ve been listening to a lot of NTS Radio shows as well as a few of my faves, Nils Frahm, Mac DeMarco, and Khruangbin.
It could be said that lockdown has shone a light on the importance of creativity. Not only in practical creative responses to the actual pandemic, but also to the mental well-being of our communities. What are your thoughts on this matter?
I feel that staying creative during this pandemic has been crucial for everyone in one way or another. The lockdown has made us stop and slow down, which I believe is a great thing but it can be very difficult for some people to adjust too. I think the good thing about getting involved in creative activities is that it gives you the time to reflect and let go whilst keeping your mind busy.