Graphic artist Katie inspired by Cowal move
Graphic artist Katie Edge Mellor, a recent arrival to Argyll’s Cowal peninsula from Sheffield, is forging her own, unique way in the world of creative arts.
A member of the burgeoning Cowal Open Studios (COS) artists’ network, Katie is heavily committed to adopting an environmentally friendly approach to every aspect of her commercial work and artistic endeavours.
Katie explained: “I moved to Cowal in late 2021 to be close to Scotland’s spectacular west coast and the city of Glasgow. After several years working within creative agencies in England and Scotland I moved from Sheffield where I had a design studio in the city centre and started my business Own Way. I went fully freelance as a designer and business owner just over 5 years ago.
“Own Way is an independent graphic design and print studio. I offer graphic design services including logos, branding, flyers and websites. Alongside this I also design and hand screen print a range of eco-friendly, contemporary products including prints, patches and homewares.
“By mixing my design skills with screen printing I have created screen prints and patches and much more. The key aim was to make sure the products I create are plastic free, environmentally-friendly and long lasting. I use water-based inks for printing which have no harmful chemicals. All the paper and packaging I use is recycled. The cotton I use to print my patches is also organic and fair trade. I am always looking to find new and better ways to reduce waste and care for the environment.
“My work is inspired by the outdoors. There’s so much inspiration to be had in this part of the world. I often come up with my best ideas when I am out walking the dog, climbing a mountain, riding my bike or sat on a train. These are the times I come up with my ideas or become inspired by people and my surroundings.
“I have learnt how important it is to take time out to allow your creativity to boom,” added Katie who has just produced a few new patch designs for the local area and is working on a Cowal Map design which will be out soon.”
Katie has a wide range of customers from design clients to people who buy her products and artwork.
She went on: “A lot of my customers are people who appreciate the techniques I use and my commitment to the environmental side.
“Cowal is so full of wildlife and stunning mountain ranges as well as boasting close to links to Glasgow and Loch Lomond. I would recommend it to any artist who is looking for a slower pace of life, friendly people, fantastic scenery and outdoor activities.
“I’ve got involved with Cowal Open Studios, a fantastic growing network of artists who live here on the peninsula. I’ve been lucky enough to work closely with the team designing the Cowal Open Studios 2022 boucher and will be taking part in the open weekend in September. My work will be on show at the Sea Drift pottery studio in Sandbank near Dunoon,” concluded Katie.
The COS open studios weekend takes place on September 23rd to 26th with a selection of artists also showcasing their work at the Burgh Hall in Dunoon and Historic Kilmun as part of an ECHO Trails (East Cowal Heritage Outdoors) initiative.
