Storytelling Through Collage Art: A Conversation with Aussie Illustrator Andrea Smith

Let us introduce you to Andrea Smith, a super talented Sydney-based illustrator whose work is full of charm, detail, and heart. Andrea’s art is a beautiful mix of collage, watercolour, and screen printing.

What really makes Andrea's art special is her love for storytelling and adding little details that make you stop and look closer. Inspired by everything from folk art to the Aussie landscape, her illustrations are full of joy. In this chat, Andrea opens up about her creative journey, what keeps her inspired, and her exciting collaborations with Earth Greetings.

1. Can you tell us about your journey as an artist and the moment you realised that illustration was your calling?

I was always making and creating as a child - jewellery, pottery, screen prints and drawings. When I left school I studied fashion design but working in the industry wasn’t as satisfying as I had hoped. It was on a break in Europe that I realised that it was drawing that I loved more than sewing and when I came back I decided to study illustration and design. After my course I went straight into freelancing and have been fortunate to have had the pleasure of working with some amazing clients over the years.

 

2. What inspires the storytelling elements in your artwork? Are there particular themes or experiences that you draw from?

When working with clients the brief often guides the direction of the story I want the illustration to convey. Sometimes, I draw from personal experiences, while other times I find inspiration in nature, books or vintage treasures. I'm especially inspired by the motifs and patterns of ‘Folk art” and the storytelling in traditional crafts. I also really enjoy working with specific themes like Christmas, as it both focuses my attention and gives huge opportunities for storytelling.

 

3. Your work often features little hidden treasures. How do you approach creating these subtle moments of delight in your illustrations?

I love adding extra elements and intricate details in my work. I always try to create illustrations that draw the viewer in, encouraging them to take a closer look and discover hidden meanings — or simply to experience more beauty and joy.

 

4. How does your background in fashion and design influence your current work in illustration?

I primarily work with paper collage and my training in fashion has definitely influenced this choice. I love working with paper, which is lovely to hold and manipulate and I enjoy the physical act of creating something. I hand-paint all the paper myself, layering elements to create depth and complexity. The colour and patterns of my designs is also shaped by my interest in things like embroidery and the decorative elements of fashion.
 

5. How do you stay inspired and motivated to continuously innovate in your artwork?

I stay inspired by taking notice of the world around me - simple things like appreciating the flowers that are in bloom for instance. Taking on personal projects also helps me explore new themes and gives me freedom to experiment which helps inspire my client work.

 

6. Have there been any unexpected or unusual sources of inspiration that have significantly impacted your work?

Australiana has been a big source of inspiration in my work. Having grown up in rural NSW, I’m inspired by the colours of the landscape and the Australian flora and fauna. Our unique animals and beautiful wildflowers have significantly impacted my work and have been a strong theme for my illustrations over the years.

 

7. You work with a variety of clients on both large and small projects. How do you adapt your style to meet different briefs while maintaining your unique voice?

I thrive on variety and enjoy a challenge, so working on a range of projects with different clients really excites me. I start by understanding the client’s vision and needs for the project, as well as the end goal for the illustration. My style is versatile, but I try to keep certain characteristics, such as my use of paper collage, hand-painted textures, or storytelling elements in each illustration. This balance allows me to meet the needs of each project while maintaining the unique qualities that define my work.

 

8. What do you hope viewers take away from your illustrations? Is there a particular message or feeling you aim to leave with them?

Ultimately, I hope my illustrations bring joy, beauty and happiness. I feel I am part of a wave of artists and illustrators engaging in Australian themes that have moved Australiana from kitsch to fun and joyful, and appreciative of our amazing natural inheritance.

 

9. How have you found the experience of collaborating with Earth Greetings? What drew you to work with a brand focused on earth-friendly products?

I have been a fan of Earth Greetings since before I started working with them. I was drawn to their high-quality, earth-friendly products, dedication to sustainability and being Australian-made. I love Heide's passion for Australian animals and giving back to the community. We've been collaborating for about eight years and have had some amazing projects together, including the Christmas Collections from a few years ago, which is a personal favourite.

 

10. Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about that you can share with us?

My first children’s books came out earlier this year - ‘Counting with Fauna’ & ‘Colours with Flora’ which I’m really excited about. I recently illustrated Emelia Jackson’s (Masterchef) second cookbook “Some Of My Best Friends Are Cookies’ which is coming out soon. I’m also working on a few exciting projects that I can’t share yet as well as some new cards for my Earth Greetings range!

Check out Andrea’s collaboration with Earth Greetings here!