TIPTOE by Julieetozzy
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Julie and I’m an illustrator under the name Julieetozzy. Ozzy is one of my two cats; he was next to me when I chose my Instagram handle. I’m also a comics librarian alongside my illustration work.
How would you define your creative world?
Very colourful, just like my interior or my wardrobe! What I prefer to illustrate are portraits and plants, flowers… joyful illustrations with lots of patterns! I mainly work on my iPad, but I started using gouache a year ago and I love it; I’m trying to develop my skills. I like trying new techniques to evolve my style; I find it very enriching and creatively stimulating.
Where do you find your inspiration?
A bit everywhere! It might be someone I pass in the street, a photo online or a scene from a film… And a lot in books, which must be an occupational habit from my work as a librarian! Last week I came across the exhibition catalogue of the painter Baya, and I loved her colourful, naïve world.
How important is your interior to you?
It’s hugely important! I keep telling my partner that I like having objects that make me happy when I see them. They’re not necessarily expensive objects, but I need to like them… even my tea towels! I spend a lot of time at home, and I need to feel good there.
Why did you decide to represent these TIPTOE objects?
I represented several TIPTOE objects, but what comes up in my choices is colour: the yellow legs of the bench, the coffee table or the yellow chair, the pink legs of the stool or the pink cushions on the sofa… I chose the colours first; for the outdoor illustration, I knew I wanted a colourful object, and this yellow chair is so great!
What’s your vision of TIPTOE?
Functional, sturdy furniture made to last! I really like the concept of removable table legs, being able to go from a coffee table to a bench by changing the tabletop. I also like their clean design, but with a colourful, modern touch.
Any creative recommendations?
Books! Among my latest inspiring reads are Sofia Coppola’s photographic archive book, the Baya exhibition catalogue, Femmes en leur jardin and L’Oracle fabuleux by Emmanuelle Houdart. The card illustrations are magnificent!
A place where you feel good?
In the countryside at my parents’ place, summer is paradise! A hamlet with no neighbours, trees as far as the eye can see… and in winter, my living room with my bookcase, my cats and a blanket within reach!