Natashna Anderson (natashNa A.) is a designer and illustrator based in STL, that focuses on blackness, fairytales and typography in her work. Working with a range of mediums, her work has been found nationwide.
How did your brand and creative journey come to life?
I took to drawing as early as 4th grade, with how-to books and materials I had no idea how to use! Within the years that followed, I realized how much I really loved it. I began to look into programs and extracurriculars to incorporate it more into my life. Fast forward to now, I think I’ve managed to weave art seamlessly into my life as a Graphic Designer and Illustrator! I graduated at the height of Covid with a BFA from School of the Arts Institute of Chicago with a large interdisciplinary background of printmaking, book arts, graphic design, illustration, and fine arts. As I grew more and more in my creative practice, I eventually found my favorite mediums but even then, I was always on the lookout for something new to have under my belt! At the time, I was really concerned about not having a unique style. Since I worked with a lot of materials, what I would create would look vastly different from each other. When I really took a look at my work though, I finally realized that I had three main themes that I would circle around endlessly and it never bore me. Blackness, Typography and Fairytales. I would depict these ideas in endless combinations, subtly or extremely apparent, they were always there.
Tell us about your biz!
My business is just me! (Surprise!) and if there is something about me, it’s that I like to keep busy. I am always looking for the next opportunity and pushing myself both in and out of my creative practice.
What have been some highlights of your career?
Highlights of my career (outside of this one of course!) would be my collaboration with Target and my interview with Voyage magazine! I’ve only been in STL for about 2 years and I find that I am flourishing here! I’ve been teaching workshops at the Saint Louis Public Library and have been a guest speaker at the Saint Louis Science Center. I’m also proud to say that I’ve had my artwork sold in both Chicago and Saint Louis, work in publications, coloring books and even work on the side of buildings!
What inspires you on a day-to-day basis?
Change in scenery! I definitely do not find inspiration being stuck in my home or my studio for long periods! The minute I feel like things are stale and I feel like I’m not making work that is interesting to me, I know it’s time for a trip outside! Now this trip outside could be as simple as a trip to Target, a museum or a local art market. It doesn’t take much but I also come back super invigorated! Even a trip to the library is perfect! Consuming media is also a big part of my inspiration, whether that is music or video, I find that I am always cataloguing things of interest to me!
Tell us a bit about your capsule collection with Otto Studio. Why did you choose the patterns? What was your inspiration behind these patterns?
My capsule collection with Otto Studio is another homage to Blackness and fairytales! Is anyone surprised? Ha! I was inspired by a book of Sub Saharan African jewelry and adornment, mainly the country of Ghana. These became the basis for the patterns for Texture in Tradition and Roots & Regalia. I wanted to focus on hair texture and styles as well as using the jewelry as hair accessories. For Graffiti and Gumsoles and Curses & Kicks, I wanted to focus on fairy tales but through the lens of sneaker culture! I even managed to sneak a bit of typography in there! It was a really fun process working with Otto Studio and it really shows just how differently my work can materialize.
What would your advice be to your younger self, knowing what you know now about your career and journey? And to anyone else who is starting out as a creative?
My advice to my younger self would be to really document all of your work! Get in the habit of logging your accomplishments and sketchbooks for sure! I would also remind her that all things come in good time! As for anyone else, I’d say to make sure to continuously show your work! I am definitely at fault for now sharing my work as often as I should but you never know who you might get in touch with just because you shared an image or a video! Also, it never hurts to reach out and ask for an opportunity! If you want to work with a company, reach out!
Which people or books have had the most influence on your creative growth/inspiration and why?
I actually don’t have a set person or book that has had the most influence on my creative growth/inspiration! I get inspiration from so many things at different points in my life that create the work that I want to make at that time. Since I have my three main points in my work, I am constantly learning and reading more about classic fairytales, Blackness and typography but when it comes to actually creating the work I find that I get inspiration from places I visit in my life, whether that’s the zoo, a play, or the museum. It really depends! I definitely think that’s why I am never bored with the work I create, I truly reimagine it everytime!
Tell us about the biggest failure you’ve had. What did you learn from it?
Personally, I don’t believe in failure. Everything is a learning moment.
Have I had some lapses in judgement, yes. But failures? No. I do not believe in the lack of success for myself, and neither should you!
What does a typical day in your week look like?
A typical day in my week starts pretty early in the morning! I’m an Early Bird for sure, so I usually start my day heading right into my home studio after a training session with my dog Noughat! (6-3:30am) I will usually complete any outstanding tasks from the day before, starting with computer work or finishing any illustrations. I work on multiple projects at a time, so there’s always something to finish. I’ll usually finish up around 10am or 12pm, take a break, have a bite to eat and Noughat for her hour walk at 12pm or 1pm. Upon return, it’s an extended break again with slower work, that might be sketchbooking, planning or browsing Pinterest. I finish up my day around 3pm but I will intermittently do work after that if emails come back or revisions!
In your opinion, what are some ways that people can use wallpaper that haven’t been fully explored? Where does your creativity immediately take you?
I have a loft apartment, so my ceilings are so high that wallpaper on the walls is a bit of a journey! I was planning on using the wallpaper to decorate the base of my white shell chairs for my dining room as well as cover my white dining table with it as well! I think the wallpaper is also great for amping up doors in your home and even cabinets!
What would be your one piece of advice for someone considering DIY wallpaper?
A: Read the instructions! Don’t go rogue! Especially if it’s your first time! But on a serious note, live in a space that truly reflects you! Start small and grow out!