peach illustrate

Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your business?

I’m Georgia, a local Illustrator and Creative Designer working under the moniker PEACH Illustrate.

PEACH was a nickname I started using when I was fresh out of Uni, and have continued to since. My work is mainly filled with bold and colourful illustrations, exploring various mental health, political and social issues - and my ever-growing love for the weird, the wonderful and pop culture.

What inspired you to start your own business? 

After graduating 3 years ago, my artistic career was put on pause (side effect from burnout!). From the COVID-19 pandemic, I had a bit of a “wake-up call”/self-realisation that life is too short. I took a leap of faith and worked towards becoming a self-employed Illustrator and Designer – I haven’t looked back since!

Can you tell us about a typical day in your business? 

As soon as I’m up, coffee is the first thing on my mind. While I’m trying to wake myself up, I’ll have a wee scroll through my emails (I have to ease myself in – ha!). Depending on Projects and their deadlines, I’ll sketch for a few hours in my books prior to creating detailed work on Procreate and Adobe CC. I’ve rediscovered my love for screen printing, so I’ll begin to prep my layers and screens. Maybe do some experiments in the afternoon – just have fun with it! I’ll always have a playlist or podcast blasting in the background, music is incredibly important for me when I’m working. I love the buzz during the process.

What do you love about what you do? 

The various people that I’ve been very lucky to meet through my work, and the creative freedom that I have when it comes to projects.

What do you find most challenging? 

Balancing it all. I’m still getting to grips with self-employment, but I’m enjoying it! I’m also a Part-Time Lecturer in Graphic Design, so I’ve had to really adjust my Illustration/Design Project schedule around my teaching schedule.

Where do you see yourself and your business in 5 years? 

Hopefully as an established Illustrator working towards a graphic novel of some sorts! In the future I would love to set-up a creative studio for emerging/remerging artists/illustrators/designers from any background to develop new skills! Anything from digital, to DIY Screen-Printing, Typography – you name it! I love a creative learning environment - bouncing ideas between professional peers and students is very exciting.

What do you wish you had known when you started your business? 

1.) Tax Returns can’t be ignored.

2.) You’re gonna make mistakes, but it isn’t the end of the world – learn from them!

3.) Don’t be afraid to say no 

What do you enjoy outside your business? 

To help disconnect and take a breather, I’ll usually;

A.) Go for a big walk in the local area with a wee coffee on the go

B.) Have cuddle with my pet guinea pigs and relax

C.) Veg out on the sofa and watch trashy TV or anime

Our theme this year for Womenfolk is Balance - how do you bring balance to your life? Any advice for other creative business owners? 

Remember to take time aside for yourself! Everyone gets at least 2 days off per week, and so should you.

When working alone at home, it’s easy to get wrapped up in your head and/or surroundings. So, I find it’s great to set-up “work dates” – it’s a chance to get your own work done while hanging out with some friends, and you can all motivate each other.

Lastly, if it all gets too much then walk away and breathe for bit. Nothing is more important than a clear mind, especially as a creative.

Where can people find out more about your business? 

You can check out my work on:

Instagram @peach.illustrate
www.peachillustrate.com