FK talks to Jessica Hyde from illustration based label Truth.be.told
Can you describe your illustration style?
My illustration style is whimsical and feminine. I’m interested in portraiture and fashion, so I like to bring detailed patterns and line work into my drawings.
What is your background and how did you get to where you are today?
I have always loved drawing since I was a little girl but I really began to take it more seriously after I finished studying Architecture in 2007. I soon realised that I enjoyed illustration and design a lot more than drawing buildings, so I started drawing, making cards and wedding invitations in my spare time. With a little encouragement I started truth.be.told in early 2008, and really it has just become an integral part of my life.
What are you looking forward to the most at FK Melbourne markets?
I’ve visited the FK markets in Sydney and last year in Melbourne and I was blown away by the amazing talented designers Finders Keepers bring together. I’m really looking forward to being a part of all of it – plus sneaking in a little shopping!
Where inspires you and your work?
I’m inspired by so many places and people. I love old movies so a lot of my inspiration comes from watching movies like High Society and Funny Face. And I am inspired constantly by imagery of the city, probably a welcome hangover from studying architecture. I think studying architecture opened me up to a lot of different styles, I especially love Art Deco. After visiting the US last year I am even more inspired by amazing cities like New York, if I’m ever stuck I just look through my photos and sketchbook and I am instantly back on track.
What are your favourite places to hang out in Melbourne?
There are so many places I love – I live and work in the inner North so I spend a lot of time in that area. I love vintage shopping at gems like Lost + Found on Smith Street, as well as having brunch – Each Peach and Palomino are two of my faves. If I get a spare moment I love going to NGV and spend time wandering around the city taking pictures and sketching. I also love going to see live music so places like the Corner Hotel and Northcote Social Club are regular haunts. And I love going to markets, even when I have my weekends off – Rose Street Artist Markets and CraftHatch are both great.
What advice would you give other illustrators starting out?
The best advice I have ever gotten was to just draw what I loved and the rest will follow, which I believe is true. I truly enjoy every time I sit down to start a new illustration. If you enjoy it, you won’t mind the hard work. Get your work out there anyway you can – blogs, competitions, submit to magazines and companies you love. They may say no but one day it will lead to a yes.
What have the highlights been since starting your label?
There have been so many highlights – starting and developing truth.be.told over the last three years has been in itself a highlight. Things like making my first sale and seeing my work in magazines were also pretty exciting moments that may have resulted in a few star jumps. Getting the chance to exhibit my work in some amazing group shows has also been a big highlight.
What projects do you have to look forward to this year?
There are lots of great things coming up for truth.be.told and myself personally this year! Apart from new designs and lots of markets I have some exciting custom work and collaborations coming out soon and an exhibition planned for later in the year. I am also working on my new custom wedding invitations and styling jobs which I am extremely excited to share soon.
http://www.truthbetold.com.au/
