Rising Stars: Meet Jessica Roux

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Roux. 

Hi Jessica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Becoming an artist wasn’t a conscious decision, as my creativity has been the driving force in my life since I was a child. I spent a lot of my childhood outside, drawing and painting the natural world, writing stories, and exploring in my own backyard. When it came time to apply to colleges and pick a major, I actually briefly studied journalism first. Writing has always been a passion of mine (and it still is – I write and illustrate books), but I found myself painting during my free time, sketching when I should have been taking notes, and finding everything but the journalism classes I was taking to be inspiring. I ended up transferring to study illustration at another university. When I was younger, I don’t think I understood that illustration could be a job, so writing seemed more practical. But now I know it’s the only job I would be happy having. 

I started out illustrating for magazines and newspapers, as well as developing my own product and stationery line. Today, I still create my own products and stationery, but I primarily work on illustrating books. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There’s always ups and downs when you make your own path. I’ve been very fortunate in that I typically do not have to look for work at this point in my career. I struggle more now with having to turn down projects that I don’t have time for, or that I might not be a perfect fit for, or that pay too little. I don’t like saying no or disappointing people, so that can be a struggle. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a freelance illustrator and author. My work focuses on flora and fauna, with a dash of history and fantasy. 

My distinctive, old-world style sets my artwork apart. I’m inspired by nature, history, mythology, and folklore, and these influences are clearly present in my work. I pack a lot of detail and texture into each illustration, combining traditional graphite drawing with digital painting with subdued colors. 

I’m most proud of the projects I’ve written and illustrated, like my book Floriography: An Illustrated Guide to the Victorian Language of Flowers, and my upcoming oracle deck, Woodland Wardens. Both are published by Andrews McMeel. 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: jessica-roux.com
• Instagram: @jessicasroux
• Facebook: facebook.com/JessicaRouxIllustration
• Twitter: @jessicasroux

Image Credits
Michelle Gevint