Behind the scenes of ‘Artichoke to Zucchini’ with Alice Oehr

Photography by Amber Fletcher.

Can you briefly describe your process to create an illustration?

For this book, I made everything out of paper collage. I normally cut out a shape, decorate it using pastel or paint, and then scan it into the computer. Digitally, I might add some extra details, clean up any messy areas, or tweak the colours, and finish by arranging everything on the page.

What inspires you to create the pieces that you do?

It’ll come as no surprise that the rituals of shopping for and preparing food are a great source of inspiration for me! I love seeing new packaging and types of produce both at home and when I’m travelling (and tasting it too). 

Where do you find your materials? How do you gather them?

I save a lot of paper and wrapping (constantly), which often proves to be handy later as I can chop it up and incorporate it into things. But other than that, it’s fairly low-cost supplies like plain coloured paper and oil pastels that I can just get at Officeworks etc. I am particular about black pens and love doing line work with a fountain pen or fine market. 

Photography by Amber Fletcher.

How was the process different this time around than with Off to the Market?

This book was illustration heavy, with the pictures doing most of the words. I didn’t have to draw anything other than food (no people or scenes), so I could really zoom in and get stuck into the details. 

What was your favourite object(s) to create for this book?

I really enjoy drawing fruits & veggies with natural patterns – like pumpkins. I also love to create labels for fake brands like the hot sauce and the kimchi in this book. 

Do you have any tips or advice for budding little artists and foodies?

Stop to observe the colours and patterns in the food at the market and you’ll find a world of inspiration! 

Photography by Amber Fletcher.