Meet our new Artist of the Month... Kayleigh Milton. Based in Kent @kayleighs.keepsakes loves modern calligraphy that flows and loops. Read on to find out more about our Artist of the Month!
What is your background and when did your passion for Calligraphy and Lettering begin?
I’ve always loved using different writing styles and fonts. As a child in my school years I would pay close attention to font names when typing up work and attempt to replicate them by hand. I was forever writing and doodling patterns all over my school books, scraps of paper, napkins... Anything I could! I have always been complimented for having lovely handwriting but because I loved to write in a variety of styles, I never quite managed to adopt just one signature style like most people do! Back then I had no idea there was such a thing as a ‘lettering artist’!
Who / Where do you take your inspiration from?
Anywhere and everywhere! Product packaging, shop fronts, restaurant menus, business signage, the list is endless! Lettering exists everywhere you look in an abundance of shapes, sizes and styles. I also follow some incredible lettering artists and calligraphers on Instagram too!
What in your opinion is the hardest and the most rewarding parts of working in a creative industry?
There are two things I struggle with in particular. The first is comparing my work to other peoples work and feeling like mine just doesn’t cut it. My style is quite simplistic in comparison to some of the spectacularly talented lettering artists I follow but there is room for all styles on the gram and they’re wonderful in their own ways. The second is when I produce something I feel is one of my best pieces only for it to ‘flop’ online. I have to remind myself that the lack of likes or views bares no relevance to the joy I got creating it.
One of the most rewarding parts for me personally is the utter calm I feel when I’m sat at my desk, pen in hand. For me, that is priceless!
Do you have a favourite style?
I love modern/faux calligraphy. Any style that flows and loops without any harsh corners is so enjoyable to write.
What are the most exciting projects you have worked on and what are you working on at the moment?
The most exciting project I’ve worked on is definitely this collaboration with Manuscript. I was elated to be contacted for my first brand collaboration and hope to do more in the future!
I’ve been asked to create some really sentimental artwork over the last couple of years and I’m always so honoured to be trusted with such pieces.
At the moment I’m trying to build my Instagram page up by posting regularly. Doing this helps me to get lots of practise in. The aquabrush markers I was kindly sent have enabled me to practise blending which is something I’ve wanted to have a go at for a long time!
How does your work relate to your everyday life?
I am asked to do bits and pieces for people now and again but mostly, the only purpose for my lettering art is my own joy. My brain can be quite frantic and I can honestly say nothing else brings me calm and allows me to mentally slow down the same way lettering does.
What are your favourite tools to use?
Historically, I would say a basic black fine liner pen. They’re great to write and draw with and allow for precision.
More recently brush pens are my go to tool. I’ve not yet mastered them so am always finding new sets to try until I find the one for me! Because of this my brush pen collection is growing at a steady rate!
What would your advice be to people new to the creative industry and any tips on how to get started?
Don’t assume or try to guess what other people want to see. Create things that you want to see. Things that bring you joy, no one else. Practising and posting regularly will eventually attract people who share joy for the same things as you!
To see more of Kayleigh's work you can follow her on Instagram. Remember to follow @manuscriptpenco on Social Media where we will be showcasing her work throughout the month.
