Artist Interview: Witch and Watchman
We’ve have something beautiful to share with you this month - it's the wonderfully dreamy and whimsical world of Witch and Watchman! This London based company was founded in 2014 by Helen Z B Wilson, the artist and designer behind the striking wallpaper and fabric designs. We've asked Helen a few questions about her style, design process, and what the future holds for Witch and Watchman!
How did you get started in Textiles and Surface Design? I was formerly an artist but a friend who was a print designer for fashion said I should use my paintings in wallpaper and fabric designs.
What's on your agenda at the moment? I’m currently working on a new design. (eek! so exciting!!)
What is your workspace like? A large living room in Berlin with double doors and tall ceilings.
How did you come up with your business name? It was the name of an 1800’s Parisian magical act.
You have a very distinctive style of design. Can you tell us about your approach? All of the elements are originally hand painted, oil on canvas then put together using Photoshop then digitally printed.
What inspires or influences your designs? The movies!
Can you tell us about your wallpaper/fabric collection? I have combined the influences of both Chinoiserie and Victoriana.
What are your top tips for incorporating bold & colorful patterns into your home? Do it in small doses.
So… do you have any exciting plans for the future? I’ll be showing at ICFF in New York in May, other than that just working away.
What advice would you give to an aspiring surface pattern designer? Don’t aspire to do it, just do it…now, time is running out!
What is your current color obsession? Pink!
What does your dream room look like? The Addams family living room or Miss Haversham’s bedroom.
What’s the most memorable place you’ve visited? Göritz in East Germany where they filmed the Grand Budapest Hotel. (seriously, how gorgeous were those sets. we love that movie!)
What social media platform do you use the most? Instagram
If you weren't a surface pattern designer, what would you have been? A fashion designer.
We love Helen's statement making style and can not wait to see more of her unique and intricate designs. What is your design style? Are you brave enough to take a leap into the bold world of Witch and Watchman?
