Sofia Johnston is an illustrator and animator from London, currently studying for an MA in Character animation at CSM. Their creative practice is inspired by nature, fantasy and the charm of everyday objects, driven by their vivid imagination.
“Through my illustration business I design and create products featuring my quirky illustrations and characters such as prints, cards and stickers. My products are designed to bring a little whimsy into the world!
I love creating silly and charming characters and using them for my products, as they might brighten up someone’s day! I also use very vibrant colours which you don’t always see in mainstream shops, and I think people are often drawn to my work for this reason.”
What is your favourite aspect of running your own creative business?
I love designing new products and thinking about what my audience would like, it is a different way of working and gives my drawings a focus. I also love meeting people who enjoy my work at craft fairs/makers markets, it’s nice to see my audience in person as we live in such an online
What challenges do you face working for yourself?
I do struggle balancing everything I have to do, since I am still studying and working part-time, but it is good to improve my time management and organisation skills.
What does your typical day look like?
My days vary quite a lot at the moment haha! I am either at Central Saint Martins working on my animation skills, working in my job at a pottery studio or at home working on my illustrations and managing orders for my shop! Things are busy, but I like being productive.
Can you briefly describe your journey since leaving UAL and setting up your business?
I have not yet finished my MA. But I actually also studied my foundation diploma at UAL, through which I found my specialism in illustration, leading me to study my BA in illustration up in Leeds. Unfortunately the final term of my BA coincided with the Covid pandemic and I kind of lost my momentum with my illustration practice and struggled to find opportunities.
After some years working in various jobs and doing some travelling I decided to give being an illustrator another shot and in 2024 I set up my shop, and began selling my illustrated products at art markets. It took a while to get things going, but I persevered and now have a nice range of products and several wholesale stockists. I plan to continue expanding my product range and list of wholesalers alongside completing my MA and becoming a better animator!
Which is your favourite product from your collection?
I love my candle party birthday card. My favourite drawings are the ones that find that sweet spot between cute and silly, and the candle characters really make me chuckle.
What are your hopes for the future and where would you like to take your design career?
I hope to be able to work full time as an Illustrator and Animator, working on both my own projects and products such as prints and cards, and also on illustrated and animated projects for clients. i just want to use all my skills as best I can!
What advice would you offer students or recent graduates wanting to start their own business?
Don’t give up, you will make mistakes but that’s ok! It’s all part of the learning process, keep at it and you’ll be fine! Also really try and learn what your audience/customers like and want to buy from you, this is something I wasn’t very good at to start with but it goes a long way.
