'Just to keep drawing': The tale of how Innes Clark designed her way out of a bakery and into restaurant branding

Innes Clark's journey from the bakery to the world of graphic design is a testament to resilience and creativity. After experiencing burnout from four challenging years at the Edinburgh College of Art, Clark took a step back from her artistic aspirations by working in a bakery. This unconventional pivot allowed her to recharge while simultaneously pursuing a crash course in graphic design, a field she was determined to enter. Her story exemplifies how unexpected experiences can lead to fulfilling career paths, particularly in the creative industries.

Clark's time in the bakery not only provided her with a break from the pressures of art school but also served as a springboard into her current role as a graphic designer. "The bakery gave me so many opportunities and helped catapult me into my current role as a graphic designer," she reflects. This sentiment highlights how seemingly unrelated jobs can provide valuable experiences and insights that shape one's professional journey.

The Creative Process

Growing up in north London with two creative parents, Clark was immersed in art from an early age. She draws inspiration from her daily life, whether it’s during her commute on the central line, sharing meals with friends, or consuming various forms of media. Her creative process revolves around absorbing these experiences and reflecting on them before translating her thoughts into visual art. Influences such as Saul Steinberg, early sketches by David Hockney, and Tim Burton's illustrations have shaped her artistic style, alongside the zines she describes as an "absolute library of inspiration."

Clark's approach to sketching is refreshingly unorthodox. She admits to not maintaining a traditional sketchbook, which she attributes to her perfectionist tendencies. Instead, she prefers working on loose pieces of paper, finding them to be more liberating and conducive to her creativity. This method allows her to embrace the imperfections inherent in her work. Once she completes a drawing, she digitizes it, utilizing Photoshop to layer textures and blend modes until she achieves the desired effect. "Nothing looks as good as the wobbly, imperfect and, most importantly in this climate, human lines," she states, emphasizing the value of authenticity in her art.

Clark's portfolio is divided into two distinct areas: personal illustrations, including charming depictions of her cat, and restaurant branding projects. Her cat, described as a "big ball of fluff" with a bold personality, is often featured in her work, showcasing her ability to infuse character into her illustrations. Meanwhile, her restaurant posters reflect her professional work, merging her artistic flair with commercial design. These pieces often feature playful typography and whimsical imagery, such as a martini glass with the cheeky line, "one for me and one for me."

The Human Touch in Art

A significant aspect of Clark's philosophy is her belief in the superiority of hand-drawn art over AI-generated images. She aims for her work to resonate with viewers, encouraging them to find joy and humor in her creations. "I want people to see that work like this is so much more interesting than AI, that it is unique and human," she expresses. By intentionally leaving negative space in her compositions, she invites viewers to engage with her art on a personal level, fostering a deeper connection.

Looking ahead, Clark acknowledges the challenges of burnout and its impact on her creative output. Rather than allowing it to dictate her artistic journey, she is committed to overcoming these obstacles. "I've been using burnout as an excuse for myself, but I just need to get going again. So, just to keep drawing. Less screen time and more drawing," she declares. This resolution reflects her determination to prioritize her passion for art and maintain a consistent creative practice.

Innes Clark's story is not just about a career transition; it is a narrative of perseverance, self-discovery, and the relentless pursuit of creativity. Her experiences serve as an inspiration for other artists and designers navigating their own paths, reminding them that every step, even those taken in unexpected directions, can lead to fulfilling and meaningful work in the creative field.