Canadian-born, New York City–based Illustrator Meagan Morrison focuses on two main topics: fashion and travel. So it only made sense to feature her creations, an artistic take on New York Fashion Week, in our Spring issue. We picked Morrison’s brain on her inspiration, her creative process and her upcoming projects.
How did you get started as a fashion illustrator?
I have been making art from the time I was old enough to hold a paintbrush, but I didn’t discover fashion illustration until I was 22. I was directed toward the program at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City by a former coworker, and when I applied, I was encouraged to take life-drawing classes to prepare myself for the degree. Once I was accepted in 2009, the journey really began. I started my blog Travel Write Draw in that program, and from there, the opportunities and commissions started to come together. It has grown organically ever since.
From where do you draw inspiration?
It really depends on the project, whether it’s commissioned or personal work. If it’s the latter, I tend to start with a particular destination or scour Pinterest for interesting fashion editorials. I’m always looking to push myself and evolve my style. I tend to pull references that are really expressive and that allow me to get out of my comfort zone.
Can you talk us through your process?
When I’m working with a client, I make sure I have a really solid handle on what it is they want me to convey in the illustrations. From there, I start to collect imagery for reference that will help me sketch and draft my ideas onto paper. I’ll work with the client to see how they feel about the initial sketches. Usually there aren’t too many tweaks, and I can take it to a color composition and final.
What are some of your most memorable work experiences?
There really are so many that I absolutely cherish. Off the top of my head, I would say flying to Moscow to illustrate live backstage and from the runway at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Russia; partnering with Condé Nast Traveler and the Bermuda Tourism Authority to illustrate my way through the island; jetting off to Hong Kong to film DFS T Galleria’s holiday campaign last summer; and truthfully, the New York Fashion Week story I just did with Artful Living.
What can fans look for next?
I’m currently working on a campaign with the European Union. I’m also working on artwork for the lobby of a New York City hotel that will open this spring, and I’ll begin a slew of travels next month.
