From water colourists, illustrators and calligraphists, there has never been a better time to discover emerging artists through social media.
Whether it’s fashion-themed sketches you’re into or something more traditional, you’ll be hard pressed not to stumble across a creative type you didn’t like on Instagram right now -- many of which have built mega social media followings for their work as big brands attempt a more authentic approach with their products through collaborations with local artists.
Whether you want to spruce up a bedroom wall, gift somebody with a bespoke piece of custom artwork or simply pretty up your social media feed, The Huffington Post Australia rounded up eight Aussie creatives to hit follow on now.
A former art director at Grazia and Cosmopolitan magazines, Campbell specialises in styling, branding and custom illustrations out of her design studio in Newcastle, Sydney.
Penfriend
Penfriend AKA Sharna Mcdonald is a graphic artist and typographer who is known for her laid back style and music-inspired approach to quotes.
Whether it’s a portrait of Leonardo DiCaprio or a French bulldog, Olen’s sketches are scarily life-like with each possessing an exuberant amount of personality.
Based in Perth, McManus is a fashion illustrator who got her start when her work caught the eye of designer Aurelio Costarella who invited McManus to illustrate the invites for Costarella’s New York Fashion Week show.
A daily dose of fun in quote form is what you’ll get from the Instagram account of Just Sayin’ Girl but her work doesn’t stop there. The Sydney-based art director specialises in custom work including photo booth backdrops for weddings as well as bespoke prints.
Birdy & Me
Luxurious fashion and beauty illustrations are what you’ll get from Birdy & Me -- real name, Kelly Smith who has worked with the likes of Armani, Maybelline New York and Valentino.
Illustrator Sally Spratt began illustrating luxurious fashion items she longed for, but couldn’t afford essentially creating her very own “lust list” in sketch form. From handbags, stilettos and perfume bottles, it could be said her illustrations are just as gorgeous as the real thing.
Hailing from Melbourne, Natalie Rompotis practiced commercial law before returning to her childhood love of illustrating. Now based in Sydney, Rompotis has a knack for bringing couture, classic cinema and all things French to life on paper.