A Conversation with Carrie South

What do you do?

I am an illustrator and mother of two small children. My main focus is ink and watercolor.

What does your work space look like? Where do you like to create?

My work space is our living room. A messy, ink stained desk, surrounded by toys. Having kids at home makes it nearly impossible to have an art room or studio, so I work within the eye of the hurricane.

What role does the pencil play in your process?

All of my pieces start out as a rough pencil sketch. As I ink I tend to change, redraw or add to areas. My original sketch evolves quite a bit at times and my pencil is used throughout the entire process.

Why do you choose to work with pencils and, specifically, Blackwings?

With all tools, I feel that it comes down to feeling and functionality. I love that my Pearl can execute a light sketch, but also lay darker full lines without having to switch pencil types. The lead feels soft, with out being messy or losing its point often and it erases well without smudging. I feel for me it is the perfect pencil for what I do.

What other tools are essential to your process?

I only use dip pens when it comes to inking, so my nibs are essential in what I do. I use a limited palette of watercolor pans and my assorted collection of brushes. All of this is applied to Arches cold press watercolor paper.

How do you overcome artist's block? 

As nerdy as it sounds, I actually play video games. I have been an avid gamer since the 90's and it is to me what hikes are to nature lovers. A chance to separate myself from my situation and get lost a little bit. 

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

"Nobody cares. Try harder." Every time I finish a piece I tell myself that I can do better. It gives me a reason to keep creating. I hope to never make something that I am 100% satisfied with.

Check out more work on Carrie's Instagram.