Exploring the World!
Developing a passion for drawing in her youth, Milli Jane pursued a career in digital illustration after attending art college in the UK. As a freelance digital illustrator, she gained recognition for her travel posters before settling in New Zealand.
Could you share your background, education, and how you entered the creative field?
I developed a strong passion for drawing at a young age and was fortunate to have been exposed to computers and the internet during its early stages. This allowed me to explore a world of inspiration and digital illustration. Combining my love for technology with my artistic interests, I pursued a career in digital illustration after attending an art college in Hertfordshire, UK. Following my graduation, I began working as a freelance digital illustrator while also holding part-time roles in retail and tech support at the Apple Store in Cambridge. Over time, I gained recognition for my illustrated travel posters and eventually moved to New Zealand's North Island, where I now work with a diverse range of clients, creating posters for theatre productions, festivals, advertising, and events worldwide.
Can you share a key travel experience that shaped your illustration style or approach?
Growing up in England, I was fortunate to have had frequent travels throughout Europe from a young age, which sparked an early passion for travel and adventure. The stunning places I visited around the world served as a great inspiration for my artwork and style. I was always amazed by sunsets, sunrises, and how nature and architecture combined to create unexpected and stunning color palettes. With digital art, I could merge these palettes to create my dreamy fantasy.
This passion for travel and digital art eventually led me to a pivotal moment during my travels in Southeast Asia, where I freelanced with just my iPad and eventually relocated to New Zealand. Immersing myself in the diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences of the region, I found myself drawn to the natural beauty of New Zealand's landscapes and the rich tapestry of Southeast Asian cultures.
This fusion of experiences broadened my artistic perspective, inspiring me to incorporate elements of nature, cultural diversity, and storytelling into my illustrations. It challenged me to adapt my creative process to the portability and flexibility of digital tools, allowing me to capture moments of inspiration wherever I went. This not only expanded my artistic palette but also encouraged me to experiment with new techniques and perspectives in my illustrations.
What inspired you to merge illustration with tangible products at Moondust Paper Co., and how do you envision your creations influencing others' creative paths?
The idea of combining illustration with tangible products came from my passion for travel and creativity. I've always been fascinated by interior design, so creating products that not only reflected my illustrations but also served as tools for others to express their creativity felt like the perfect next step to share my creative vision. My goal is to inspire others to create a home that reflects their passions and adventures through the power of visual storytelling. I'm also excited to start diversifying into a wider range of stationery designs, which I hope will have an even greater impact on fellow creatives. I plan to focus on providing tools for freelancers, including journals, goal-setting calendars, and eventually a book of creative prompts and challenges that I'm currently working on.
How has working with a diverse range of clients like Auto Trader, NHS, and Gatwick influenced your creative approach and process?
I have developed my portfolio based on my clients' need for impactful illustrated marketing posters, which I love creating due to the combination of typography and illustration. My projects vary from clients with a clear vision to those open to complete creative freedom. Working with diverse clients such as Auto Trader, NHS, and Gatwick, among others, has enriched my creative process by allowing me to adapt and tailor my approach to each project's unique needs. Freelancing on such a wide range of exciting projects has emphasized the importance of incorporating different brand identities, target audiences, and messaging into my designs. This experience has honed my ability to effectively communicate through visual storytelling and ensure that each design resonates with its intended audience.
