We sat down with Ileana Grimm, the hilarious artist behind the Canadian gift company Grimm Inc., to talk inspirations, creative processes and what really makes her tick…
What’s your background and how did you become an artist?
I am a self-taught creative. When I graduated University, I sold hand-painted T-shirts to pay back my student loan and as it turns out, I was quite good at it! Off the back of that success, I decided to start my own gift company and 33 years later the well has not run dry.
How would you describe your own work?
Both my art and its style has changed a lot over time, but if I had to describe it, I think I’d call it humorous pop art.
Who are your biggest influences?
B. Kliban, David Shrigley, Bruce Eric Kaplan, Andy Riley and Chris (Simpsons artist)
Where do you seek inspiration?
A lot of inspiration comes from listening to the radio. I hear the words and see a different direction visually in my head. I also make myself laugh a lot, thinking “wouldn’t it be funny if…”
What keeps you creative?
Is beer a suitable answer? Just kidding. I don’t know any other way of being. I create all day. With paper, paint, pens. The list goes on.
What do you do if you ever find yourself stuck in a creative rut?
Paint or draw without reason. I find removing the pressure of it being for an audience gives me a sense of freedom.
Talk us through your creative process
Firstly, I’ll ask myself “what’s the topic?” and then, “why is it topical?”. After that it’s a case of identifying which parts are laughable, and whether it’s something that many can relate to and how I can convey why it is funny with as little detail as possible.
What memorable responses have you had about your work?
Two that stick out are “your art makes me happy” and “there is not enough happy artwork out there”.
What’s the one piece of equipment in your kit your couldn’t live without?
A cheap hotel pen.
If you could give a piece of advice to your younger self – what would it be?
Paint more. Don’t worry about how much you weigh. Buy stock in Apple.
How did you feel when you first saw your work published in the Momentful app?
I’m proud that my art can make a difference to someone’s day and help them feel special and cared about.
Which is your favourite Moment of yours that’s available in app?
The Moment titled ‘Licked Me Back’, where the dog is saying to his owner “it would be nice if every once in a while, you licked me back.”
Explore Moments from Grimm Inc., by downloading the Momentful app today on iOS and Android.
