My fav creative moment is at night, when I put some music on and just focus on my drawing. It’s so relaxing and so satisfying - that makes me really happy.

Pat is a brilliant illustrator who lives in a cosy flat-share in Dalston and works near the canal in Hackney Wick.

It was a real treat to chat with her about her creative routine and daily inspirations.

3 steps morning routine

Waking up is a big challenge! If I’m in a good mood I will then do some basic exercises like squats and press-ups.

I usually have a very simple breakfast: big mug of coffee, a pancake - I love pancakes! - and fruits.

I often read in the morning so I wake up a couple of hours before heading to work.

Pat flipping through her work

3 steps evening routine

I cook a quick dinner first thing - it usually consists of soup during winter and salad during summer. I don't spend much time cooking - 10 min is a max!

I like to draw on my sketchbook, usually between 9pm and 11pm, with a real pen and paper - it’s nice to go back to basics.

Ok, I must confess I play Zelda on Switch sometimes - but this game is amazing. 

Colourful geometric notice board

Top 3 creative moments at home

My fav creative moment is at night, when I put some music on and just focus on my drawing. It’s so relaxing and so satisfying - that makes me really happy.

I listen to music all the time on Spotify. I’ve created a perfect playlist for drawing at night: the Leave me alone playlist.

I try to stay away from doing « computer stuff » at night because I’m doing that all day already. 

Japan's inspired shelves

Top 3 relaxing moments and habits

Again, drawing with music is always my favourite happy moment.

I love my job - it’s the best job in the world - but it can be quite exhausting, so I need to disconnect at the end of the day. I should try meditation, but for now I’m happy to go after work to the Copper Box Arena gym which is near my studio in Hackney Wick. It’s the best location: you can see the sun set when you run.

When it’s summer, having a beer by the Canal at Crate Brewery is also a good option!

Pat checking client's work

Secret life hack

A good 8h sleep :) And taking my time to do things. I’m an adept of the slow-life, we should all slow down a bit, don’t you think?

Most treasured possession

Definitely my sketchbook because it’s really personal and unique. It’s the result of many and many hours of dedicated work!

The cutest of all sketchbooks

Worst pyjama set

An old sweat pants, an oversize t-shirt and an old jumper. It's the worst but the best. I could live in it.

Dream home outfit

Last summer I bought a pair of Carhartt dungarees. I feel like I am 5 years-old again, I spend my Sundays in them and love it.

Culture vulture - Pat's current recommandations

Last series:

Planet Earth on Netflix with the legendary David Attenborough - everybody loves him, to an extent it’s almost funny. And the series is just breathtakingly beautiful.

Last book:

The Salt Path: A Memoir by Raynor Winn. A true story about a couple who has lost everything and decides to go walking along the South West Coast Path. I loved it!

Last podcast:

I don’t listen podcast although I listen to music all the time - usually minimal techno for daytime, peaceful piano at night.

Last movie:

Wine Country on Netflix by Amy Poehler - she is cool. It was surprisingly very funny and entertaining!

Last recipe:

I don’t really cook, but I’ve tried these Japanese hotdogs based on a recipe I saw on the TastyJapan instagram. Its very easy and quick, so good and very fatty!

Favourite Insta accounts:

I spend so much time on instagram, looking at cat things like @pumpkintheracoon and @sukiicat from my personal account!

Otherwise, I follow many artists with my pro account. At the moment I love the work of @beatrice.blue or @ellievsbear.