Kate Simpson, Kate Simpson Fine Art
Did you always want to pursue a career in art?
I always wanted a career in art but never thought I would be an artist. I graduated from Northumbria University in Motion graphics and Animation so my path was to do something along those lines! I ended up selling originals and commission work whilst I applied for animation jobs until I started to phase out applying for jobs and kept working on my drawings.
Describe your career path so far?
As I said I have a degree in Animation and Motion Graphics and ended up doing my artwork instead. I started selling quite a few originals and booking a lot of commission work. I’ve always been inspired by the animals that inhabit the Northumbrian countryside. I was awarded The David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of The Year 2014 (when I had just started self employment) so that gave me a real boost to continue working on my art.
I’ve been lucky enough to illustrate a few books as well as work for some big companies with freelance work and to be shortlisted for the Rural Business Awards in 2018. 2019 has started very well already with my first solo exhibition at Blagdon Gallery in April (nervous and excited all at the same time!).
What should people expect at your exhibitions?
A lot about Northumberland and its inhabitants. Wildlife and livestock have been a huge inspiration to me as a result of getting involved in country pursuits. Blagdon Gallery showcases Northumberland’s finest artists so to be included is pretty special.
What do you most enjoy about your job?
Drawing! I know it’s a cliche but I do absolutely love it. I adore putting that idea down on paper that I’ve been wanting to create for so long. Sometimes it’s even hard to go to sleep as I just want to draw.
What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
Trying to combine the business element with the creative part. Creativity comes naturally to me (big headed I know!) but I am self employed and I do have to sit myself down and make business decisions especially when I do large freelance work for companies.
Who are your Heroes?
I don’t have a hero but I do admire people who are creative like Mary Ann Rogers, Sophie Allport, Hannah Dale and have made the most of their talent and became a success. It gives us all hope that the continued hard work will be worth it.
What are your forthcoming plans?
My first plan is to organise work for my upcoming exhibition at Blagdon Gallery in the Spring. I also have a few projects that I’m working on that I’m hoping to have released at the end of the year.
How do you like to unwind?
I ride, so I take the horse out nearly every morning which is a very relaxing time and if I complete a drawing later on in the day then I enjoy walking the dog. Other than that it’s just more drawing I guess!
Kate is exhibiting at the popular Blagdon Gallery with a preview show in April and then throughout the remainder of the month and the whole of May.