About 'Ar8yedz' the Person
My name is Yemi Edwards. Ar8yedz is my brand name, and I am an Illustrator and Surface Pattern Designer. I am based in the East Midlands, UK. My love of travelling has landed me in places like the USA, Europe and Scotland.
My designs and illustrations range from florals to cityscapes, and just a couple of doodles. My favourite medium is watercolour, but I am savvy with pens/pencils, gouache and working digital.
As a retired fashion photographer, I understand how colours and elements bring a 'story' or in this case a 'pattern' to life
How I ended up in this field was a full-circle moment. Back in the mid-90s I studied Graphic Design and Photography. In the degree course, there were a few fine art modules.
I will fully admit that I found ways to not go to those classes! I can’t honestly give you a specific reason, but I found the photography side more fitting for me.
Fast forward to the end of 2020.
After 22 years of being a photographer, the time came that I had to stop due to the way the world was at that time. Like everyone else, transitioning to the new now, I spent months sad that I was unable to be creative.
Then one night I picked up a marker and started drawing.
My first “piece” was something colourful for my newly diagnosed autistic daughter, who was feeling a bit low and needed something to help her. That image is in my portfolio here.
I was very interested in manga and loved the colours available with my first Winsor & Newton Promarker set. Then I picked up a pencil and soon realised that with some time and patience, I can recreate a face from a photograph. By the end of 2023, my mediums included watercolour, gouache, coloured pencils, inks and digital.
About 'Ar8yedz' the Brand
Ar8yedz incorporates my love of creativity and the ideas that fill my mind, which I turn into illustrations, patterns, and designs!
Here are a few reasons I think we could work well together! (Click below to enlarge)
Being able to be creative is something I enjoy doing from my heart.
– Me
PS- Ar8yedz is my persona as an illustrator – pronounced ARTY EDZZZ which is a combination of my surname Edwards with my love of Art!
ar8yedz ♥
Thank you for taking the time to look at my portfolio! Please use the contact form to discuss any collaborations or licensing opportunities!
Thank you! I will get back to you shortly!