New York and London-based fashion and editorial illustrator Jessica May Underwood began her career hand drawing at Alexander McQueen, where her pencil drawings were worked into the iconic skull scarves. Last year saw her largest project to date, the 2015 Harrods Spring Windows, and in March 2016 Jessica is scheduled to speak at the Victoria and Albert Museum on the subject of ‘The Fashion of Illustration’. We chatted with the fabulous artist on her London and NY must-dos.
Who are you and what are you wearing?
I am an illustrator and writer and i am wearing a bit of a uniform: Levi’s Jeans, a grey sweater and an army jacket with a vintage embroidered military collar in red and gold.
What are you creating right now?
I am working on a written lecture i am presenting with the Victoria and Albert Museum in London titled ‘The Fashion Of Illustration’, which addresses the prevailing attention to illustrative media in fashion, editorial and publishing – from historical to contemporary case studies.
Three words to describe your approach to design/illustration?
Detail, intellect, and refined execution.
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
Move and the way will open.
24 hours in London, what are the must-dos?
Coffee by my house in De Beauvoir and a walk across the street to the Millinery works, The Wallace Collection for paintings, The Victoria and Albert Museum for historical fashion exhibitions, and tea in the William Morris and Edward Burne Jones Tea rooms – the oldest in London. A walk through the old back streets of Bloomsbury, and dinner at J Sheeky.
24 hours in New York, what are the must-dos?
A run along the Hudson River, tea with maple syrup at my friend Margos house on Tompkins Square Park, a walk up to 72nd st for vintage shopping, a trip to Spoonbill & Sugartown for your literary dose, coffee at Bakeri in williamsburg or a hit of Blue Bottle anytime, and an afternoon at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. And always dinner at Gemma at the Bowery Hotel.
What’s always in your carry-on?
Ballet shoes from Freed Of London, a long heavy book, British Vogue, face oil, and Melatonin.
Style icon?
C.18th pirates
___ is the best therapy?
Meditation and reading
Most treasured possession?
My star ring that i wear on my left hand. It reminds me of New York.
Find more of Jessica’s work here!
