Vicki Johnson

Vicki Johnson is an illustrator with a background in printmaking and textile design. Vicki makes colourful work with a nostalgic feel inspired by flora, fauna, folk art and the everyday. Vicki is also the owner of Printer Johnson.

Tell us about yourself!

Art was always my thing. I was lucky to be encouraged by my
family to pursue my interests in art and design. Despite being unacademic I decided to continue with my education and studied BA textile design, specialising in print. This gave me an insight into creative industry, taught me commercial awareness and opened some doors into freelancing which I’m very grateful for.

I’ve been self-employed in various capacities ever since. My practice has changed direction many times before focusing on building paper goods brand Printer Johnson in 2019. I’m very proud of how the business has grown over the last few turbulent years and so grateful to everyone who has helped me make it happen.

Describe your style in 3 words

Colourful, composed (as in placed deliberately, no happy accidents here), retro.

Where do you work?

I make my work at home where there are fewer distractions. I prefer working in quiet environments where a cup of tea is never far away. While my background is in physical printmaking I now work digitally making home working viable.

What do you get up to when you aren’t illustrating or designing?

When I’m not working on the business I love to garden, I particularly like growing big shouty tropical plants and flowers, before we had a garden I fanatically collected house plants. Now our home is full of greenery inside and out which all need taking care of but I find it very rewarding. I enjoy the slow pace of watching things grow while modern life is so busy. When I’m not outside covered in soil I also enjoy cooking, beer gardens and walking our dog by the river.

Most frequently played tune in the studio?

As I mentioned, I really do enjoy a quiet environment to work in. If I do listen to something it’s likely to be an audio book or small business podcast.

Find out more

@vickijohnson_illustrator