New Tenant – Anna Boyd

How would you describe your creative practice?

I’m a reportage illustrator capturing life as it unfolds, focusing on landscapes, botanicals, people, and everyday moments- whether in nature or urban settings. Working on location I use drawing, painting, collage, and assemblage to preserve and reflect these fleeting experiences. My practice is meditative and observational, emphasising sustainable, analogue techniques to convey the world around me. I offer original artworks, prints, and commissions for those who appreciate handcrafted storytelling. As my practice grows, I’m exploring exhibitions, collaborations, and workshops to connect with greater audiences. 

 

 

 

What’s the story behind your creative journey to where you are today, what inspired or helped you?

My journey began 15 years ago when I left medical school while battling an eating disorder–art became my catharsis and a path to healing. What started as an emotional outlet grew into a deeper passion, and for the past decade, I’ve balanced working as a chef with making art on the side.

During my master’s degree, my practice transformed, and I fully realised my commitment to art. Creating has always been my way of slowing down, observing, and connecting with the world. Now, I’m dedicating myself to my artistic career, with the hope of inspiring others—whether through storytelling, encouraging mindfulness, or fostering a deeper connection with nature and creativity. Setting up my business is my way of turning this passion into something meaningful, tangible, and hopefully lasting. 

 

What University did you graduate from? What course did you study?

MA Illustration, Falmouth University & BA (Hons) Fine Art, Kingston University 

 

How will being based at Banks Mill  help your business?

It gives me the dedicated space to approach my practice professionally, free from home distractions. It has already helped me establish routines, prioritise my work, and bring more balance to my life. It also provides the perfect space to reflect, compose, and expand upon the narratives I create in the field.

Beyond the space, the creative community is invaluable- I’m eager to collaborate, exchange ideas, and learn from others. I also look forward to the support and resources Banks Mill offers, helping me grow both creatively and professionally. 

 

 

What other work experience, support or training have you gained that’s relevant to what you’re doing now?

I’ve participated in events like Assemble at Derby’s Museum of Making and am currently taking a business course with artist Amanda Heath to develop my brand, website, and audience engagement. 

I’ve worked alongside other artists on large-scale murals in Derbyshire and London, learning valuable collaboration skills. A significant highlight was helping set up an exhibition for Richard Long at Derby Museum, which gave me insight into the logistics of professional art exhibitions. Additionally, various schools have invited me to assist with art classes, inspiring new ideas for future workshops. 

What are you working on in the studio now?

I’m currently working on a variety of projects:  

• experimenting with somatic and bilateral drawing techniques as a meditative warm-up, which is said to activate both sides of the brain and free up creativity?!? 
• a 16-page illustrated narrative about overcoming an eating disorder, using a girl, a spider, and an owl as the protagonists. 
• a narrative about my dad’s journey through an ischemic stroke. 
• revisiting a project about a 70-mile walk I did along the Derwent Valley Heritage Way, creating a series of 70 collages inspired by that journey. 
• completing a couple of commissions of buildings 
• finishing a series of botanical ink drawings. 

 

Tell us a bit about your work/techniques/how long a piece takes to complete a piece.

I immerse myself in different places and people to create meaningful narratives, primarily drawing from life, which I find far more engaging than working from photos. I gather natural and manmade materials to craft my own charcoal, watercolour paints, and inks, with a strong focus on eco-conscious, sustainable practices. 

Regarding time, that can vary massively. A quick ink drawing might take five minutes, while a more complex storyboard could take up to five months. I enjoy mixing both the pace and the process, allowing each project to evolve organically. My practice is mainly analogue, as I love creating tactile, textured pieces by hand, but I do incorporate digital elements occasionally when needed. 

What are your plans for your business for the next 12 months?

Over the next year, I plan to experiment with new techniques, solidify my artistic voice, and overcome the fear of putting myself out there. I’ll refine my marketing strategy by reaching out to businesses I admire each week for potential collaborations, commissions, or stock opportunities. I aim to finish my website, build an email list, set up a workshop, and become more active on social media. Participating in local art fairs and engaging with my online audience will be key to raising my profile. Most importantly, I want to have fun, play, and experiment with my work while enjoying the freedom to create in my own space. My goal is to stay consistent, be visible, and build momentum, so by the end of the year, I’ll have a more established presence both locally and online. 

I’m excited to be here and connect with you all. Thanks for having me- I’m looking forward to the journey ahead and the chance to learn, share, and collaborate.