Mary Winkler

CREATE -- EDUCATE -- COMMUNICATE
My objective in all of my work is to bridge the gap between designer and consumer.
Whether illustrating or designing, writing or presenting tutorials and courses on design programs, or connecting with consumers, designers, and fans via social media, I seek to share my work and experience through various creative media.

Have you always been creative and artistic?

Definitely. Always drawing and painting and crafting since I was a tiny toddler. My mom was always super creative and art was always a part of our lives growing up.

How would you describe the style of your work?

Cute and colorful mostly. It's changed a lot over time, working mostly freelance, so a great deal of what I produce tends to depend on what a client needs.

What’s in your pencil case and what’s your favorite tool?

I do a lot of digital work, so my favorites are Adobe Illustrator and my Cintiq. For traditional media, I love knitting and markers of all sorts. Anything that can make a mark, really.

Who is your favorite superhero?

Batman. This is a hard question, since I love superheroes and comics. Love X-Men and Jem and Jonesy at the moment, but Batman is what really caught my attention as a kid thanks to the animated series.

If you could have one super power what would it be?

I usually say fly, but I'm so very afraid of heights this would backfire. Time travel would be brilliant. I'd get so much done.

Where do you look for inspiration?

Everywhere. *o* When working with clients and in need of some inspiration I tend to run around on Designspiration, Pinterest, and other social media outlets for current design trends (especially when writing up tutorials and articles on art and design).
For my own work, I really dig Macoto, Barbie dolls, retro design of the 60's and 70's, Lisa Frank, Junko Mizuno, Sophie Campbell...so many more. A lot of artists I follow on instagram and twitter are wonderfully inspiring. Everything can spark something fun and fresh.

Who are your favorite artists or comic book authors?

Aw man...ok, really digging Sophie Campbell's designs for Jem at the moment. They're just so cute! Everyone else I listed in the inspiration question for sure.
All things Kaboom and IDW comics, I think. There are SO many amazing artists and writers working with them. Shouri, Amy Mebberson, Chris Hastings, Ryan North, etc etc etc. I could go on and on and fill my face with comics.
This reminds me I need to hit up my local shop for more Steven Universe and Jonesy...and Jem! I'm behind on an issue. <3