Maker Series: This is Pip Howard, talented artisan of our hand-drawn Dunmore illustration art

Pip is an esteemed brand consultant, designer and illustrator. Taking delight in detail, natural forms and concept-driven design, her work is recognised for its depth of thought and clarity of purpose.

We first engaged Pip to curate the Dunmore Farm brand and feel very lucky to have her design for us ever since. One particular highlight is her hand-drawn illustration art which captures the distinct, yet natural aspects and moments on our farm. They really are the perfect Dunmore memento.

Today Pip joins us for a heart-to-heart, sharing her inspiration, design philosophy and why she loves to draw.

When did you first begin to draw?

For as long as I can remember I’ve loved to draw. I grew up in country Victoria and spent a lot of time in the natural environment. Exploring and observing. Our garden was beautiful. 

We were an active family, sharing bike rides, bushwalks and beachcombing expeditions. I’d fill my pockets with fallen leaves and patterned shells. I loved to observe and record the natural world in detail.

Where did you learn to illustrate?

In my early years, as a promising artist, I would tuck my 72 Fine Art Derwent Coloured Pencils under one arm, sketchbook under the other (maybe a ‘lil snack in my back pocket) and march myself into the garden for ‘drawing time’.

Years later I found myself studying Biology at uni and I fell in love with scientific drawing. My huge text books were filled with inspiration and in the lab I’d delight in the detail under the microscope.  

What inspires you to draw?

Nature always. Daily walks through the park, bush or beach. Best done alone or with my puppy pal.

Do you have any design or creative philosophies that you follow?

When it comes to drawing - draw what you see not what you expect to see. 

We each have our own sense of style. Tapping into that is the key to generating authentic work that is meaningful, memorable, and relevant.

I also love this quote, “Real growth often happens outside of where we intend it to. What Dr. Seuss calls ‘the waiting place’. Allowing space leaves room for the ideas we haven’t had yet.”

What do you love drawing the most?

I love foraging for nature’s lost treasures on the forest floor. A tiny pine cone, unexpected lichen, new growth. There are so many delicate details in the forest habitat.

What’s your favourite part of the illustrating process?

I love the initial phase of lightly sketching a loose composition. I can see the beauty in that moment. But then I love getting lost in the meditation of shading. There’s a lot to love.

What are the most challenging elements of your art?

Windy days (haha). Drawing on location can definitely have its challenges.

In your day-to-day, you craft brand identities for a range of purpose-led businesses. Do you create a lot of hand-drawn, custom illustrations in this role?

Illustration is a pure form of expression. Every line and gesture unique. I use hand generated typography and illustration often in my branding stories. It’s personal to each project. Developing engaging content is the key to successful design and effective communication.

How do you balance your creative passion with building your business? 

Creativity and being creative grounds me and inspires my work and business. Finding time for my personal projects is super important to me. I don’t always get the balance right. Creativity can be a walk on the beach or in the park, it can be getting out the pastels and having a play, hand building a cup out of clay or weaving a ‘lil basket. 

Your beautiful illustration art is featured in the Dunmore Shoppe. We’d love to hear your thoughts about Bec’s artisan store.

I love what Bec has created. A personal and thoughtful collection of artisan wares. A keepsake from time spent in the Cottage at Dunmore Farm. My Dunmore pieces are loved and admired every day and remind me of the peace and beauty that I’ve experienced during my stays at Dunmore Farm.

Such beautiful words from Pip. I love that she imbues deep meaning and intricate detail into all of her illustration art and designs, and that she sees ‘beauty in the moment’. Her design philosophy truly aligns with us. Being in the moment, finding your rhythm, appreciating simplicity and celebrating nature – this is at the very core of our ethos.   

If you’re interested in purchasing a Dunmore Farm illustration - hand drawn by Pip – you can browse her artwork in our store.

Bec x