At Home With Homebodii: Mekel
The lovely Mekel is an Australian illustrator known for her beautiful watercolours, pops of colour, and delicate linework. Mekel has always had a passion for drawing since a young age - especially of girls in pretty outfits. Before focusing on her fashion illustrations, Mekel worked for over 10 years as a graphic designer for bouqitue agencies. She is the talent behind the handwritten Betts Shoes Logo, the watercolour murals in their Australian store, and the illustrations in More Money for Shoes by Melissa Browne. Mekel has had three solo exhibitions, including one at Perth Fashion Festival. Her clients include the likes of Twinings, TOPSHOP, Westfield, Elle, Revlon, and Homebodii. Mekel has received much deserved praise for her illustrations, and was featured by Vanity Fair as one of their '5 must-follow fashion illustrators'.
Homebodii was fortunate enough to have a chat with the wonderful Mekel to discuss her illustrations, inspiration, and being at home.
Location of Residence: Perth, Western Australia
Tell us a bit about how you got into illustration and formed Mekel Illustrations.I always loved to draw growing up however I moved into Graphic Design as a profession for 10 years where I was able to use my skills occasionally. After gaining more clients I left my job as a designer, joined the Jacky Winter group and did illustration full time.
Online fashion resources including instagram and other social media is fantastic as its very to the minute and often live.
What is your favourite illustration to date?
I have a few personal pencil sketches that have never seen the light of day, I hope to release them soon :) Probably one of my latest pieces 'the star' would be my favourite at this time, this is available on my website as a print.
Sophie Monk is a fashion illustrators dream to draw. Long legs, big eyes, big lashes, and so much femininity. Although a gorgeous celebrity she is so down to earth. She knows how to get glammed up but is your everyday girl, and I feel very relateable. I loved working on this project, Homebodii's pretty florals are a perfect combination for Sophie's look and my delicate line work.
Do you have any tips for aspiring fashion illustrators?
Find your own style that is unique to you! there is many people doing similar things so find your niche and embrace it. Don't be disheartened if you don't feel like its perfect, you could draw squiggles for eyes - just be confident.
Coffee, emails, run, breakfast, social media, visual inspiration and draw, draw, draw.
I'm completely myself, inspired by sights and sounds that I love.
Which Homebodii garment best suits your personality?The Tatiana Lace bodysuit in black is my favourite piece in the collection. I saw this on the NYFW runway and thought it was so cute, feminine and a little bit cheeky!
To see more of Mekel's illustrations follow her on Instagram @mekel_illustration or visit her website www.mekel.net.