Illustration graduates commissioned for exciting Creative Cardiff design

Designs by Alison Howard (left) and Meg Hill (right) will appear on posters across Cardiff

Two graduates from the University of South Wales have been commissioned to come up with an exciting new logo for Creative Cardiff – helping to adorn the city centre with their eye-catching designs.

Alison Howard and Meg Hill, who both studied Illustration at USW, are among just eight artists chosen for the project, which answers the question ‘What does Cardiff’s creativity mean to you?’

Their designs will appear on posters across Cardiff from today (10 July) at key locations in the city.

Alison, who graduated last year, was inspired by Cardiff's green spaces, historic landscapes, and sense of community for this project.

She said: “The shape of Creative Cardiff's Logo made me think of the beautiful landscaping work of Friary Gardens.

"I was inspired to create a lively illustration depicting the historical, contemporary and diverse community spirit that is an integral part of Cardiff's culture, using the logo to represent a real-life area of Cardiff where many people go to relax and unwind.

"I wanted to include as many iconic features of Cardiff as possible using details that people might not spot at first glance.

“I love to use mixed media - usually inks and watercolour textures within digital drawings - to create vibrant and diverse illustrations for different projects. I always have people at the heart of my work, and I love to use my voice as an illustrator to raise awareness for topics that are important to me - especially things like mental health and wellbeing.

"As an openly queer and autistic illustrator, I also ensure my work does its best to represent the diversity of our world to promote inclusivity and equality.

“Cardiff is a hugely important place to me as it is where I found what inspires me as an illustrator and has led me to meet many people who have become a massive part of my life, including my partner. It is also where I spent away from home during the pandemic, which was a new and challenging life experience, especially living independently for the first time. Cardiff's sense of community spirit is one of the main reasons I decided to stay here after my studies. It has become my new home and holds many fond memories for me.

Alison and Meg have previously taken part in A Dog’s Trail, a hugely popular charity campaign by Dog’s Trust in partnership with Peanuts and Wild in Art, which saw them design and illustrate giant Snoopy sculptures that were displayed around Cardiff.

Meg, who also graduated last year, said she knew straight away what my concept would be for this opportunity, and that was to demonstrate the connection that artists have with Creative Cardiff.

She said: “I wanted to make sure my design captured the public's attention, so I used a wide range of colour and texture. I wanted my design to reach out to all audiences in Cardiff, and I think (and hope) I did just that!

“It's hard to describe my style, since I like to try a little of everything, but I would describe my most commonly-used style as clean, simple and almost graphic design-like.

"I think I have achieved the opportunities I have so far because the simplicity of my style allows the designs to be easily understood but still without lacking in detail.

“Cardiff feels special to me because it has offered many creative opportunities that I didn't think would come so easily. It has something for everyone, and isn't shy of announcing it!”

For more information on Creative Cardiff, visit https://creativecardiff.org.uk/

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