Rooted thoughts
Iain Macarthur

I was heavily inspired by Art Nouveau when creating this artwork, aiming to bring a sense of beauty and calmness to the piece. I believe this intention translates effectively in its application as a retro style lamp, aligning the visual design with the warmth of the light it emits.

At the beginning of each project, I undertake research and planning, gathering references from Pinterest as well as from books — I have a few on Art Nouveau.

I then produce a series of rough sketches, exploring different compositions before selecting a concept. Once chosen, I refine the selected sketch in detail before moving on to the final drawing, which can take several hours to complete.

After the illustration is finished, I scan the artwork and make adjustments to brightness and contrast using Adobe Photoshop. The final stage involves digitally colouring the piece in Photoshop, bringing the design to completion.

I found this project particularly unique, as it differed from any work I had previously worked on. The concept of transforming my design into a light box was especially engaging and offered an exciting creative challenge.

I was also drawn to the underlying idea of a lamp inspired by retro signage. It made me nostalgic of the neon signs in Hong Kong, which I often saw while living there as a child.

I want people to feel a sense of calmness with my work — hopefully that the illumination would make them daydream in some sense.

I have so many inspirations in my life and work — it’s definitely hard to choose. I would say nature being a big factor of my inspiration, even though it sounds cliché. Also mental health and folk art being a few of my inspirations.