Q&A with Artist Clym Evernden

In celebration of Fashion & Design Month this September 2016, renowned artist Clym Evernden gives Regent Street the low down on his inspirations, style and plans for 2016.

Tell us about your typical day.
I’m not a morning person, so I take a while and a bit of coffee to get motivated; but once I am, the morning is always my best working period of the day. I will usually aim to finish work early around 4pm at which point I’ll go to the gym, pop to the shops, meet friends etc.
I’m constantly trying to avoid the rush hour times of the day so I’ll usually be out and about in between them. What I like about what I do is that every day varies; some I’ll be working until midnight and others I’ll have a relaxed day and go for a walk by the river if the weather’s good.

Which artists and designers inspire you?
My inspiration sources vary all the time. At the moment I’m keen on the late Sandra Blow’s work. While I was in St Ives earlier this year I visited her studio, and was inspired by her colour sense, use of abstract shapes, and care free approach to materials.

Do you have a creative muse?
It could be anything, it's constantly changing. Often it’s music, everyday people on the street, or a space that I enjoy being in.

What excites you about art and illustration?
What has always excited me about it, like clothing, is that it can play a part of everyday life. I love that it can be a sketch jotted on a post-it note, or a painting hanging in the National Gallery. I’m also excited by how it’s constantly evolving, aided by changes in how we consume, social media etc.

What defines ‘art’ for you?
I think it’s a very personal thing, so for me it’s simply something that is communicated to me, whether that be through visual appeal or a conceptual message. I have a very non elitist approach to art, so it doesn’t necessarily have to be something in a gallery or on a pedestal, it could be something on the street.

What would you say to someone looking to become an artist?
In the words of Rihanna 'work work work work work'. The more work you put in, the more you get out, both in terms of self-satisfaction and client recognition, simple as that. Nothing can be achieved instantly, and you have to let things grow and develop at their own speed without forcing things too much.

If you were not an artist, what might you have done?
I absolutely love electronic music, so I might have pursued a career as a DJ.

How would you define your sartorial style?
My style has evolved over the last few years into being basically divided in two: the everyday get up which involves comfort and practicality, a T- shirt and jeans; and clothing I’ll wear to events which I’ll pull out the stops for, wearing some tailoring, good shoes etc. I suppose I would define my style as being sleek, adaptable and slightly sporty.

What are your favourite Regent Street hot spots?
I’m a big fan of Hotel Cafe Royal, it’s a beautiful space and instantly makes me feel calm and pampered. I also love the big Burberry store, I buy quite of lot from there.

What does Fashion and Design Month mean to you?
Fashion and Design Month is an opportunity for London to demonstrate how uniquely creative and diverse the industry and culture is here. There are always so many exciting new artists, designers and locations being launched in the city, so it’s a chance to celebrate these as well those who are established.

What’s next for you?
I currently working on a few product line concepts.
 

On 3rd September, Evernden was stationed at various stores across Regent Street to capture the sartorial style of shoppers, from effortless elegance to edgy looks, via quick ten minute illustrations in his signature ink-based style. To find out more click here.

For more information on Clym Evernden and his portfolio visit clymdraws.com.

 

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