Meet Audrey Herbertson! As part of our ongoing Joanie Gallery Project – a series of collaborations with artists we admire – we’ve teamed up with US illustrator, Audrey Herbertson. Our Brand Director, Lucy interviews Audrey to give you an insight into this groovy collaboration!

Audrey Herberston @auderpopz, was a perfect choice for our artist collaboration series.

The self-proclaimed ‘Queen of Colour’, Audrey’s groovy designs draw inspiration from the ‘60s and ‘70s. Based in L.A., Audrey describes her illustrations as ‘psychedelic designs that feel like a happy blast from the past’.

We’re completely in love with her trippy, nostalgic style and are thrilled to have been able to collaborate with her on a limited collection of illustrated slogan tees. Our Brand Director, Lucy had a chat with Audrey for a little more insight into her life, inspirations and the amazing work she creates…

Self portrait of Illustrator Audrey HerbertsonAudrey Herbertson

“Hi Audrey, tell us a little about yourself - your set-up, your life. Where are you today? Set the scene for our readers.”

I’m a 23 year-old, currently living at home with my parents because of the pandemic. I do most of my work in my bedroom with my dog Gizmo laying next to me.

 

“How long have you lived in L.A.? When I dream of Los Angeles, it’s sunshine, freedom, warmth, health… all the Lauren Canyon vibes - is that the reality or just my rose-tinted spectacles?”

I’ve lived in L.A. my whole life – and I definitely think it’s the sunny dream people think it is. The city isn’t for everyone but it’s my home and I love it. You can meet every kind of person here and there’s always a sunny day to enjoy.

 

“You illustrate for lots of big brands and record companies, is it a full-time career or a side hustle? We first felt in love with your designs through your ‘Women of…’ series! You’re so good at the faces. How did you get into illustration?”

Art is still a side hustle for me but hopefully someday soon it will be full-time! Creating album covers is my favourite along with T-shirt designs. I’ve worked with a couple of larger companies like MTV and I love doing work for them. My hope is that I can design for more musical artists and I’m definitely inching towards that.

Chaka Disco Rules Slogan Tee, Morello Cherry Bomb Slogan Tee

“Tell us a little more about your love of past. What is it that draws you to the 1960s and 1970s?”

I discovered the Beatles as a kid while on a family vacation where my mom gave me her iPod and put on Revolver. I fell in love with the ‘60s and rock ‘n’ roll from that day forward. I also started playing guitar at age 12 where my guitar teacher taught me Led Zeppelin songs and the love for classic rock grew more. My art is definitely inspired by the music I like.

 

“If you could travel back to one moment in time, one place - where/what would it be?”

Lucy: I’ll get you started with my answer to this question – I’m guessing you won’t be far off!

One of Frank Zappa’s legendary Log Cabin parties, 2401 Lauren Canyon Boulevard, summer of 1968. The who’s who of Rock and Roll royalty, Joni Mitchell & Rod Stewart in a tree house, a dayglo bowling alley… 

Audrey: I would travel back in time to November 25th, 1976 to the Winterland ballroom in San Francisco to see The Band perform their finale concert together in what would be the movie The Last Waltz.

 

“A lot of your inspiration is drawn from music too, what’s your jam?”

My favourite music is basically anything a 60 year-old dad likes. All the good classic rock like The Rolling Stones. I also have a soft spot for more folky music like Joni Mitchell and Cat Stevens. But then of course, I have a great love for funk and disco music - give me Donna Summer any day any time!

One model is wearing Americano Tee second model is wearing Rae TeeAmericano Clouds In My Coffee Slogan Tee, Rae Walking On Sunshine Slogan Tee

“If you could steal the wardrobe of one person - past or present - who would it be?”

I would definitely steal everything David Bowie wore. All those Ziggy-era glam jumpsuits are to die for!

 

“Complete the phrase: ‘There’s nothing I love more than...’”

My dog!

 

“Tell us where our Joanie Gals can learn more about you and your work”

My Instagram page is the best place to get a feel for what I do: https://www.instagram.com/auderpopz/