We sit down with illustrator extraordinaire, and all around sweetheart, Patricia Mendes to chat all things inspiration and art.
By now we hope that you've had a chance to browse our incredible new Spring Summer 2017 collection - RHAPSODY. I'm sure you'd agree that one of the triumphs of the release was our collaboration with illustrator extraordinaire, and all-round incredible lady, Patricia Mendes. Featuring six incredible artworks, the Urban Road x Patricia Mendes collaboration spotlights intricately sketched female portraits
We had the chance to grab a few minutes of Patricia's time and ask her some questions.
When did you first discover your love for drawing?
I have always loved to sketch. As a child I struggled through school and often turned to art for comfort, but back then I never saw the potential in sketching. I placed myself in a career path of fashion design which still holds a special place in my life, but I have to say through all the ups and downs in the industry I discovered my favourite task was always the illustration part. So, after 3 beautiful kids and a 9 year career as a homemaker, I got up the courage to put myself out there and started sketching again.
What would you say are the greatest sources of inspiration for your artwork?
That is a difficult one, but I have to say “life”. I am inspired by all aspects of it; the feelings we experience, the beauty we get to see in this world, the simple moments we share.
What do you do when you’re facing a creative block?
This is something I’m quite familiar with! I found the only way for me to get past it all is to stop forcing it, leave the studio (as difficult as that may be!) and get out and about.
What do you find the most challenging part of your job?
There are quite a few challenges, but my biggest would be comparing my work to others out there. I absolutely love social media - it opens our world up to so many amazing talents and opportunities, but as an artist it can also smash your confidence. I know we are all different and no two artist are the same, but it becomes a challenge when I have to remind myself of that more often than I would like to.
Another big challenge is time management. Sketching is like meditating to me, so at times I get a little lost and have to remind myself to do all those other countless but important tasks that form a business.
What is your favourite Urban Road artwork?
Ohh, hard question! There's so many works that I love, from the latest favourites Enki and the cheeky Olivia, to the stunning Transcend collection.
How would you describe your home decorating style?
I would say eclectic - I love so many different styles, it's always difficult for me to follow just one path.
What’s your best home styling tip?
Style with comfort in mind. Remember you are creating a home and it needs to welcome you.This season's use of velvets and lush textures, I believe, is perfect for that.
What has been your greatest professional achievement to date?
I have to place the collaboration with Urban Road right up there - being a long time admirer/stalker, I am over the moon excited to combine our works.
What 3 songs would be on your best of all time playlist?
Lust for Life - Lana Del Rey ft. The Weeknd
I Do What I Love - Ellie Goulding
Rockabye - Clean Bandit ft. Sean Paul & Anne-Marie
What’s your favourite thing about Summer?
Living on the Gold Coast!
What words of encouragement do you have for the other aspiring creative business gals out there?
Butterflies with wings as thin as rice paper can conquer continents - never underestimate yourself.
Don’t be afraid of the no's - they often lead to a yes!
So now you know a little more about the wonderful Patricia, head on over and check out the collaboration, available for purchase on the website now - click here to see! We can't wait to see how you style these amazing pieces.
