Cassie Manning
United Kingdom
How did you get your start in Art?
I have always drawn from an early age; I think about eight years old. I always loved fashion and fashion illustration so through my teenage years I wanted to be a fashion designer. However, during a careers advisement session in high school, I was convinced to take a different path and was steered away from drawing. After many years of not drawing, having kids, and being home, I decided to start drawing daily again. It's been about 2 years now since I picked the pencil back up and haven't put it down.
How would you describe your artistic style?
I would say I have an illustrative style I guess. I draw all kinds of women and like to imagine that they have a story behind them. I mainly draw in watercolor but I also l love digital. Often my style is loose lines and bout a vibe. But as of late I have been trying less of the looser style and cleaning up my lines for a different look.
What has been the most memorable response to your work?
I think in the earlier of stages of me sharing my work on Instagram, I shared a picture of the beautiful ballerina, Ingrid Silva, that I painted for my daughter that everyone seemed to love. "Brown girls do Ballet" featured my painting and it got over 2.5k+ plus likes. I was in shock that it got so many likes.
Who is your favorite artist? Why?
I have sooooooo many artists on my fav list but at the moment I enjoy Jacquelin Deleon, she is a cool illustrator who does amazing paintings in watercolor and digital.
What are some of the challenges you have faced as an artist?
Personally, as a mother to small kids it can be hard to find time to fit it all in and find the time to paint and draw, often remedied by a lot of late nights. Professionally it can be a challenge for people to see your work. There are so many amazing artists out there it can be easy to get lost in a sea of artists. I try to not let that worry me and focus on my craft day in and out any opportunities that arise are great.
What's next for Cassie?
Just to keep growing and improving as an illustrator/artist really. In the not so distant future hoping to have more opportunities with big clients as I have done this year, produce high-quality illustrations and content that my supporters and I would love.
What motto or mantra do you live your life by?
I have a lot of mantra's as I am a big believer in words having power. One phrase that is laced throughout my daily life is 'Positive Vibes.
In the world's current climate we are constantly being blasted with negative images and thoughts from all directions. Negative/toxic energy should be avoided. That's why I like to paint/draw my women in a positive light. I want people who view my art to feel uplifted, motivated and happy from seeing my work.
For more information on this artist, please visit www.nubianrockchick.com and follow on social media at @nubianrockchickart