Interview with: Tom Abbiss Smith
Tom Abbiss Smith is an award-winning contemporary designer, currently residing & working from his home studio in Norwich, United Kingdom. Graduating in illustration from Norwich University of the Arts in 2016, Tom (with his masterful eye for colour and detail), quickly gained attention and subsequently collaborated with many notable brands like Pinterest, Propercorn, Gorman, Häagen-Dazs and Liberty London amongst others.
Tom’s bold, vibrant and blocky shape compositions are often equally inspired by natural, soft and flowing forms and the sharp contrast of city architecture. He produces quirky abstract designs that can be applied across a range of creative uses; from surface pattern design, to homeware products, art posters, packaging and accessories.
We discuss Tom’s earliest influences, his preferred medium to work with, some of his favourite brands to work with, his tips on overcoming that dreaded ‘creative mental block’, favourite places to shop, what Tom gets up to in his spare time & his recommended places to visit in the fine city of Norwich…
Hi Tom! Tell us a little bit about your background & one ‘random’ fact about you…
Hi! I studied BA Hons Illustration at Norwich University of the Arts 2013-2016 and now work full time as a freelance Illustrator. I am represented by the amazing Grand Matter and joined their roster back in 2019.
Random fact: I love napping lol.
Describe your work in 3 words…
Spontaneous, Energetic, Intuitive
What made you want to become an illustrator/artist?
It was when I went to college to study Graphic Design that I really found my passion for illustration, although the sort of work I was doing back then is soooo different from what I do now! When I started to explore abstract collage in University, I found that the technique resonated with me and felt natural to do and from there it just organically evolved.
Can you remember some of your earliest influences? Which illustrators or artists working today do you admire?
As I mentioned, my work was crazy different from what I do now so my early influences were the likes of Keaton Henson's early work, Skinner Art, mcbess, that sort of thing. Today I'm inspired by artists/studios such as Antti Kekki, Marcello Velho, Nobrow, Hato Press, etc.
What design software do you use? & What medium do you prefer to work in?
I use Adobe Photoshop for my design, however I always paper collage and draw/paint my textures and scan them in for digital editing. I do prefer digital collage over say painting or paper collage as I can play about with the colours/compositions endlessly, whereas analog methods have their limitations, which can be nice, but yes overall digital!
How do you get inspired? & Do you have any tips or suggestions on how to overcome a creative mental block?
I find things like museums, parks, and getting out of the city helps inspire me, things like photography get you exploring places which also feeds inspo into my work. I also think having a 2nd creative endeavour helps with creative block, I've started doing pottery on the wheel and it's super enjoyable and gives you breathing time from commercial projects.
Tom Abbiss Smith Instagram Feed
You’ve worked with so many notable brands, do you have a highlight moment of your career? Or any particular project you were most excited about?
I was delighted to work with Slowdown Studio and Gorman, as they are brands that I hold in high regard! I think those projects really showcased my work perfectly in homeware accessories and that's an avenue I'm very interested in commercially.
Tom Abbiss Smith Instagram Feed
What is your favourite ‘sweet’ thing and why?
Currently, it's mini eggs because they're damn delicious and in an abundance around the shops haha
You have a pretty cool style..! What are some of your favourite brands to shop?
Carhartt, Polar, Braindead, Buttergoods, Dickies that sorta stuff!
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Mostly pottery, beat-making, and magnet fishing!
Is there anything you can share with us with any future projects?
I've finished packaging design work for a few Beverage companies which is exciting but I can't say their names!
For anyone new to the Norwich scene, any places you would recommend to visit?
Mousehold Heath, Elm Shop in 'The Lanes' and Tombland.
