The heart-warming story of how artist Christine Nicholls reached so many with her positive daily messages to combat the, often lonely, road of lockdown.
When artist Christine Nicholls of Inkpot & Pen studio went into lockdown, she started to illustrate and record daily the humorous journey of an artist’s life during this time from her London apartment and gardens.
Her illustrations were posted on Instagram throughout lockdown and Chrissie’s following grew hugely as a result. In fact, they proved so popular that a book was commissioned; 'The Diary of an Artist in Lockdown’ - a five-month, 400 page illustrated and hand lettered diary. The project was supported by a crowdfunded campaign which reached its goal in September, within just one week of going live.
The paper stock was crucial to Chrissie who wanted the printed book to replicate the look and feel of the original diary and sketch book. Her selection of Nautilus Classic 100% recycled paper was supported by supplier Antalis. Chrissie explains why she chose this grade; “A 100% recycled paper was very important with a resemblance to the original sketch paper I had used. Nautilus has a lovely feel and touch with a warmth to the sheet which helped to retain the integrity of the original illustrations.” The book is printed by award winning Pureprint of East Sussex, using Nautilus 120 g/m2 text and the cover was 135 g/m2 laminated onto a greyboard inner.
“As an artist, I’m an ordinary person who experiences joys and mishaps, successes and mistakes like everyone else, and love to record these. With the support of Antalis and many others I have been able to publish the book so others can share these experiences,” said Chrissie.
'The Diary of an Artist in Lockdown’ will be published in December and available to the general public in February 2021
www.antalis.co.uk