This month, Discover chats to artist Poppy Faun who tells us what inspires her art and personal style.
Tell us about your art
Being an artist has been in my blood since I can remember, drawing, painting, collaging, making music, sculpting and making clothes have always been in and around me. My previous works of mainly screen printed editions using vintage magazine cutouts, empowering female images from Playboy magazines to be the centre piece, and mid century collage pop/op art graphic designs circulated the contemporary art galleries in the UK and featured in Playboy Magazine, Vogue Magazine and a Missoma Campaign.
What inspires you as an artist?
I am stimulated by many things that include different cultures and time-periods, everyday life experiences, bold vintage advertising, artistic cinematography, messages of positivity, true romance, human connections, obscure shapes and patterns and colour. I find that as humans we don’t encourage each other enough to believe in ourselves and support each other’s dreams, the smallest of words spread through art or one on one can change someone’s whole day, month, year.
Which piece are you most proud of and why?
I’ve been working on a new series of paintings over the last year and they’ve definitely been my most proudest works to date. This new series definitely defines my purpose as an artist. And as much as they’re from a hugely personal place in my heart and soul they shine a positive message with a touch of humour and love story through the eyes of a couple and their beloved horse. I decided I needed to sit alone with a canvas to work outwards to what was truly rooted inside me as an artist. It was magic and I haven’t looked back.
Who are your style icons?
Debbie Harry and Joan Jett undoubtedly are up there as style icons – I love the punk expressionism of nonconformity, rebellion and individuality from that era. Edie Sedgwick – who embodied the freewheeling sixties.
Where do you like to buy clothes?
Well, at the moment I’ve been living mainly in my Levi’s painted jeans, and painted white vest and my beloved Celine sunglasses! They come everywhere with me.
Tell us the best about living in Brighton for you?
There is a warmth that feels like home for me as I was born and bred here. I love the diversity and hugely creative side of Brighton, whether it be music, art or performance.
