Rob Flowers’ illustrations don’t just evoke the nostalgia of a childhood spent amidst the dayglo of a 1980s saturday morning cartoon marathon, they explode in techni-colour glory. They are the collision of a kaleidoscope of kitsch kids cultural influences. From the fast-food advertising of happy meals, to Garbage Pail kids via your favourite forgotten 70s cartoon.
Drawing on a bold palette of crayon-bright colours and an array of fantastic characters, ‘Tales of the Crystal Wood’ continues Rob’s exploration of folklore and mythology.
His humorous, eye-catching work has won Rob many admirers, working for the likes of The British Museum, Nike, Creative Review, MTV and Anorak Magazine.
Rob’s work may look like a wonderful walk on the wild side, look a little closer and you’ll often find beyond the whimsical imagery far darker elements at play. Get hold of these Limited Edition prints in our online shop or pop by for a gander in the shop window.
What is this?
The three illustrations are from a series called ‘Tales of the Crystal Wood’. They’re titled ‘Wrath of the Conjuror’, ‘Shamen’s Brew’ & ‘A Thief in the Mushroom Kingdom’ (produced in a Printer of Dreams exclusive colourway)
What do you do when you’re procrastinating?
Spend money I don’t have on eBay or visiting http://vintagetoyarchive.tumblr.com/
How/When/Where do you do your work?
I’ve got a studio in Dalston which I spend pretty much every day at. I usually start the day at about 11ish (after I’ve eaten my porridge & listened to Women’s hour) & draw until I’ve had enough, whilst taking regular eBay breaks
How do you earn the rent?
Freelance illustration mostly.
In five years time you would like to be…
25
In five years time you will be…
37
Final words of advice…
Belt or braces, never both.
At the moment I am…
Reading… Prison Pit Book 4 by Johnny Ryan, it’s ace.
Listening to… Radio 4, I don’t listen to music.
Watching… Inside No.9 or The 5000 Fingers of Dr.T (again)
Looking at… the awesome work of Tadanori Yokoo & the Stenberg brothers
We can find you at…
twitter/instagram – @hellorobflowers