Graphic designer Otis Hu was inspired to create her own line of kids’ art prints after the birth of her own little treasure, Nolan. She fits in designing new art prints (and other super cute paper products, all in her signature black and white style) for Papermint Studio in the evening hours, after Nolan and new little sister Madeline are tucked into bed and all her freelance design projects for clients are done.
NZ designer Otis Hu (and a seriously awesome necklace!)
Three of the six kids’ art prints in our Papermint Studio range.
Tell us about a typical day for you, Otis…
My day job is a busy mum of two (Nolan, 2 and Madeline, 6 months) and a freelance graphic designer. My usual day starts at 7 followed by housework and breakfast. I ake my kids to a park if it’s sunny. Like other ‘work from home’ mums, I only work while the kids are napping. That leaves approximately 2 hours a day for design work from clients. When the kids go to bed at night, I spend another two hours on Papermint Studio. I would love to spend more time on it! It would be my dream come true to have Papermint Studio as my full-time job in the near future.
Otis hard at work at her Mac – she designs her Papermint Studio art prints after her little ones are in bed…
Tell us about your creative space/office – what’s in it, what things you do love to have around you as you create?
My creative space is clean and neat most of time. It is nothing fancy but has everything in it. It has a computer desk and a crafting desk. A large pegboard to hold all my tools. A shelf carries all my paper and different materials. I love my Leuchtturm1917 A4 sketch book beside me for quick sketching and brain-storming. As well as a vision board on the wall to declutter my desk and for inspirations and ideas. I clean my desk and make myself a cup of tea or coffee before starting my work.
Otis crafting her new paper and wood banner prints
Every good idea starts in the sketchbook!
A clean creative space where there’s a place for everything… and everything in its place!
What are you working on right now?
I am working on a few collaboration projects with artist from other countries right now. I’m also working on new stationery such as a planner, postcard sets and some textile works. Let’s hope they can be launched by August/September this year.
Tell us about a few creatives/designer you are personally inspired by?
Dick Frizzell, Greg Straight, Erica Harrison, Glenn Jones, Karen Walker… there are so many talented designers in New Zealand!
I also inspired by the packaging design of Jessica Hische, and Louise Fili.
Otis is a real stationery-lover! (Spot the A for Awesome kids art print!)
Workspace must-haves…
Beside art/illustration, what else do you love to do?
I love exploring new restaurants and places with my husband and two kids. We go to the beach or park on a sunny day and just enjoy the nature and beauty of New Zealand. On a rainy day, we stay inside and watch a good movie!
What would be a dream collab/project you’d love to do?
I’d love to create my own children’s book in the future!
Framed Play art print (also available in white frame or unframed)
Sweet dreams, little star. This dreamy Make a Wish art print has been really popular for nurseries.
Framed Blah Blah art print. We love the way these prints have been styled by blogger Concrete and Honey.
