Interview with illustrator Lizzie Vaughan-Knight: the Tartan Trailburner
After a personal branding photography session we did at St Abbs back in December I caught up with Lizzie (The Tartan Trailburner) to ask some questions about her new illustration and art print/product business was going.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what inspired you to set up your business?
I’ve been working as a tour guide around Scotland since 2017 and love showing off the stunning landscapes this country has to offer. When the pandemic hit I was unable to continue my job, so instead began making art inspired by Scotland. I have a passion for colourful landscapes and historic landmarks; and by sharing my artwork and stories through social media, I have been able to reach out to people who can't be here in person. When people began to engage with my work and ask about buying it, I saw an opportunity to grow it into a business. I now have an online shop selling prints, postcards, and original paintings worldwide.
So what does a typical workday look like for you?
There’s no such thing as a typical workday for me! The advantage of running a business from home is that I can fit it around my family life, but I’m still finding the balance. I love a checklist and try to carve out time for creative work and product photography early in the day while leaving admin tasks until the kids are in bed.
Which part of your work do you feel most passionate about?
Connecting with people around the world and helping them feel closer to Scotland is something I’m very passionate about. It’s humbling that people care about my artwork enough to bring it into their lives and put it up on their walls. I don’t think I’ll ever get used to that feeling!
What tips would you give to someone starting out?
Ignore the self-doubt and just keep on going, you’ll pick things up as you go. Also, try not to compare yourself to other people's success; you don't know their whole story.
What is the best feedback you have ever had from a customer?
A customer recently left me a glowing 5-star review that ended with “Such an unusual design, I was pleased to find [the Scottish Kelpies], even if they do give me the willies”. It made me laugh out loud!
Who do you admire most in the world and why?
I admire anyone who uses their creative energy to inspire and motivate others. One example is the Good Ship Illustration crew led by Katie Chappell, Helen Stephens, and Tania Willis. They use their combined artistic experience to offer support and encouragement to creatives and I know I wouldn’t be making art every day if it wasn’t for them!
Where do you turn to for inspiration?
I love to get outdoors and draw from real life in my sketchbook, especially when my kids are with me. They never keep still and it forces me to be in the moment and draw without overthinking.
What are your future plans?
To keep creating! I am working on some exciting projects at the moment and can’t wait to see the finished result. The last year has been full of uncertainty yet opportunities have come along, so I’m going to keep going with the flow and see what happens.
Why did you commission the headshots?
One of my favourite things about small businesses is getting to know the person behind them and great photos help to tell that story. Sarah really understood what my brand is about and helped to create a visual narrative for my website and social media. I would absolutely recommend Pictorial Photography to anyone looking to strengthen their brand or to celebrate a landmark moment in their business or life; It’s great fun too!
Check out more of Lizzie’s work @tartan_trailburner on Instagram and on her shiny new website www.tartantrailburner.com
Also, check out our Personal Branding photography service by clicking the button below.
