Q&A with Danny Cameron from Cardinky

Tell us about the work you do and the types of materials you use.

I work as an illustrator & designer, my work often has a strong printmaking emphasis, as

I am somewhat of an addict! I was fortunate enough to be involved in a rescue mission to

preserve an antique Albion Printmaking Press we discovered in a skip! I have now restored

the press using a variety of found materials including a seatbelt! The majority of my hand

printed items are printed using this machine.

Recently I have been focusing on character design, particularly animals, trying to emphasise

their humorous qualities. I tend to prefer the medium of linocut as I enjoy the therapeutic

aspect of carving and the host of different marks you can achieve.

Where do you produce your work? Does your working environment form part of the

inspiration for your art?

I work from a small studio at home in a lovely little village perched on the edge of the Peak

District where I often go walking and cycling which gives me chance to unwind and think

about crazy design ideas!

Is your art your main job?

Yes, and I also run printmaking workshops as well as working for an Art’s agency delivering

children’s workshops.

What was it about the Saltaire Arts Trail that made you want to apply to exhibit?

I have visited many times and love the unique atmosphere in and around the village, it

feels like time travel. A friend had visited the Arts Trail last year and was raving about it so I

couldn’t resist applying.

Could you leave us with one more interesting fact about yourself or your work?

Many of the facial expressions seen in my characters are achieved by drawing from my own

face pulling various ridiculous expressions in a mirror. My Bear character was originally

inspired by the Bob Dylan video for ‘Sub-terranean Homesick Blues’ in which Bob can be

seen holding up a collection of hand written signs.

Cardinky will be exhibiting as part of the Makers' Fair