We caught up with Vienna-based illustrator and graphic designer Nanna Prieler to find out what inspires her work.
1. How would you describe your work to someone who hasn’t seen it before?
I would say it’s a colourful reflection of a strange girls mind.
2. Tell us about the techniques you use to create your illustrations.
The main part happens with photoshop, on the computer. I only need the path tool on different layers to create. But the sketch is the heart of every illustration. Without doodling it wouldn’t work.
3. When are you happiest?
Lost in thought whilst doodling in nature, enjoying barbecue’s with a glass of tasty wine and sleeping in a tent.
4. Which book illustrations have stayed with you from childhood/influenced you?
There is one decisive book who has accompanied me since my childhood. It’s Eric Carles classic ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar“. I have been fascinated and influenced by its style since I was a little girl.
5. You’ve worked on some very cool graphic design projects. What’s next for you and who would be your dream client?
Oh, thank you. There are exciting projects planned in the near future; Logo design for an Acapella band and business cards for a Chocolaterie in Istanbul.
I don’t really have a dream client. I love working for everyone who gives me the chance to design an exciting project.
6. What 5 things can’t you live without?
Pencils of course, documentations about space, my boyfriend, cheesy pizza and rainbows.
7. What’s it like to be an illustrator/designer in Vienna? Does it have a good creative scene?
The city is quite small, but it has nice fascinating places. I like the contrast of gorgeous buildings, and urban roughness. I love wandering around, eating ice cream and getting inspired. Surely the illustration scene isn’t as big as in other cities, but I think the whole town bubbles over with small openings and other creative events.
8. What areas of your work or personal development are you hoping to explore further?
I would like to switch off my brain and see what my heart is drawing uncontrolled.
9. If you could invite any three people from history to dinner, who would you invite?
Saul Bass, Beethoven, Gandalf.
10. What advice would you give to aspiring illustrators/graphic designers?
Work with all your heart and learn to trust yourself.
Your own style is the right way.
Nanna Priela
Chloë Owens
