Meet illustrator Danielle Kroll

American illustrator Danielle Kroll loves second-hand shops, where she looks for old books to edit and give them a new life. ‘With a twist I change the story of the photo and take it out of oblivion.’

How did you start out with illustrating?

“I was working in-house as a graphic designer for Anthropologie as my first job out of school. Some of the smaller projects called for illustrations as we didn’t have a budget for a photoshoot. I’ve always loved making images so these were fun challenges for me. I was constantly trying to find my style as I didn’t have formal training in illustration.

I started a blog where I’d post my favorite projects and experimental illustrations I made after work. My friend sent my blog to a more popular blog who posted about my work – and the internet did the rest. Brands and magazines found my work online. I got commissioned by a children’s brand to design a quilt as my first real project which is still being sold today.”

Where do you get your inspiration from?

“I’m innately inspired by my childhood and past decades. I love looking at ephemera like magazines from the 60s and 70s. Vintage textiles really infatuate me with their quirky color combinations and charming motifs. I love second-hand stores, where I especially like to buy old books to tear out pages to edit them. With a twist I change the story of the photo and take it out of oblivion.”

How do you start an illustration?

“I start an illustration in my head. If it’s for a commissioned project then the process is different as it’s someone else’s idea that I’m bringing to life. But I still think a lot about the execution before acting, which is why I love my thinking chair. I get comfy, lay back, close my eyes and imagine what the piece will look like.

Once I feel confident that I have something, I’ll start doing some sloppy sketches. I actually hate sketching because I’m always eager to jump right into the final once the idea is solidified in my head. I get most excited to execute ideas that I find to be unique.”