Describe your illustration style in ten words or less.
My illustration style is traditional and contemporary Darug Aboriginal art.
What items are an essential part of your creative space?
It is essential that I have art paper, canvas, paints, brushes and ink. My space is comfortable and has good lighting.
Do you have a favourite artistic medium?
My favourite medium is acrylic and ink printing.
Name three artists whose work inspires you.
My mum Aunty Edna Watson, My brother Bundeluk Watson and Leanne Tobin.
Which artistic period would you most like to visit and why?
I love the artistic period now with all of the digital additions that we can use to enhance our works.
Who or what inspired you to become an illustrator?
My mum inspired me to become an illustrator and share our culture. I spent my life growing with my culture and have always had a love of art, I have always wanted to illustrate books from as long as I can remember to share our culture.
I usually work at my large kitchen table that my Dad made, I have a studio but my table is my favourite place to work. My kitchen is full of all my favourite art and is a light and comfortable space.
What is your favourite part of the illustration process?
My favourite part of the illustration process is seeing the final illustrations come together in the book.
What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator?
I would advise anyone that wants do illustrations to keep doing your art, work with some other artists and try some new mediums and methods and have fun with your work.
Leanne is a Darug woman commonly known in the Aboriginal community as Mulgo meaning Black Swan. Leanne is the daughter of Aunty Edna Watson and Uncle Allan Watson, elders of the Darug community. Leanne was born and raised in Sydney, she is now a mother and grandmother and has spent her life living, promoting and protecting Darug culture, people and places. Leanne has been director of DCAC (Darug Custodian Aboriginal Corporation) for the past 15 plus years. She started painting at a young age, taught by her mother Aunty Edna Watson and her brother Bundeluk Watson, and is now an accomplished artist her paintings and artwork are renowned by many. Leanne’s artwork is inspired by her family, Darug country, the environment and life experiences.
For more information please check out Leanne's website.
