How did you get into design?
Moving to London at age 18 was the beginning of a long love affair with the most diverse and inspiring cities. I was spoiled with art, museums, dance, music, and people to connect with. Working freelance as a dancer brought me lots of artistic freedom, travel, and the opportunity to work with creative and passionate people. I wasn’t keen to surrender that, so I did what I knew how to—make things and sell them. I made handbags, worked for Monsoon designing children’s accessories, and then for a luxury womenswear brand designing their prints.
You’re known for your evocative print work. Where did you learn to embrace color?
I grew up absorbing Britain’s rich heritage of textile design while racing around art exhibitions and being immensely attracted to the exuberant use of color and shapes by Matisse, Sonia Delaunay, Bridget Riley, and my all-time hero, Josef Frank. I’m constantly drawn by the impact prints and patterns can have in a space or on a product. They can inspire, have a narrative, or let your mind wander.
How would you describe your design process?
I get very excited by color and my emotional response to it. When designing artwork, I often opt for balance rather than something erratic. I enjoy the flow negative space as a pattern can bring, creating a rhythm—a journey.
Tell us about the mural you created for the Studio Collective-designed Hotel Figueroa in Downtown Los Angeles.
[It] was a fantastic opportunity to think big. The client’s direction was to wrap the 12-story façade in a lush tropical garden. I was inspired to juxtapose the hotel’s downtown location with a spacious vibrant floral, creating a calming tropical reverie.
Where do you find inspiration?
I have always loved nature and the ability to use it to explore color and form. Ideas can come quite randomly: a saved postcard from an exhibition tucked in a book, ’40s decorative textiles, a striking color combination on packaging. However, I find it crucial to step away from work and dive into the ocean or immerse myself in my family.
