2022 Goals

So I did a little #artvstheartist over on Instagram ahead of new years, I wasn’t planning on doing one of these initially, because other than the pack of playing cards I’ve actually not done that much drawing, and I found it especially deflating when comparing to the post I had made the year prior. But then I reminded myself that this year, I’ve learnt SO much, gained new experience, developed my career and earnt more money 😎 (as a freelancer, not in total… I’m MUCH poorer than I was last year lol)

Despite drawing less, this past year I feel I’ve really build the foundations of my career, and it’s made me think about what I want to focus on next, so I made a small list, just with some pointers and nothing strict to not set myself up for failure.

  • More patterns, and contextualising them into products and packaging (even if just hypothetical)

  • A few more shop partnerships, spread across the UK.

  • More editorial work, this is something I’ve really enjoyed in the past and paid the best, so I plan to get back into sending more regular reaching emails to try and achieve this.

  • New products for shop, such as another collection of prints, stickers or a calendar to diversify stock options.

  • Attend more markets. The 2021 Christmas ones were such a success, it would be silly not to.

  • General upkeep of socials and admin. This is a no brainer, but also to try keep in the loop with trends and utilise all options.

Two more pet portraits commissioned for Christmas presents 🥰🎁🐶

2 glorious pet portraits commissioned for Christmas presents. Absolutely loved doing these! 🥰🎁🐶 

If you’re looking for a similar personal gift for an upcoming occasion drop me a DM or email to maryflorahart@gmail.com - Prices start at £80 and include both a digital and printed copy up to A3 📨 See more bespoke commissions here.

Quick side note… I was really excited about these two commissions, since getting my own proper printer a few months ago, I was finally able to provide a high quality print in the price, rather than just a digital copy and suggested printing options. It all felt a lot more professional! However, Royal Mail fucked me over and the first arrived ripped in half whilst the second didn’t come until a week after Christmas despite sending it off super early 😅 quite the stressful learning curve, but very grateful for both clients being super patient and understanding throughout 💚 Going forward different delivery options will be utilised!

Fancy a cuppa?

Here’s an additional bit of work done for Knowle West Media Center earlier in November as part of the ‘Come Together’ project. This part is a collaborative piece with myself and audio artist Michelle Roche.

I always love to have my work in the physical, and even better when that includes over 3000 copies! The following illustration was printed as postcards and within The Knowledge magazine sent to thousands to read and enjoy.

The image should hopefully explain all to do with this collaboration. Image text below.

Fancy a cuppa?

Call me - 011746318115

Listen I’m here for you - Is an audio piece inviting you to have a cup of tea with artist Michelle Roche, exploring and celebrating the necessity of connection and shared time between people, even strangers, and the importance and simplicity of tea.

Call the number above when you have time to hear a recorded audio piece. It’s free of charge and lasts around 20 minutes. You’ll need to listen through a mobile device, as you’ll move around your house. Best listened to through headphones, or loudspeaker, so you can have your hands free.

Inspired by four artists' work on the theme of ‘Come Together’, commissioned by Knowle West Media Centre, this audio piece was a collaboration between Mary Flora Hart (Image Design) and Michelle Roche (Writer/Performer).


To see all work for The ‘Come Together’ project with KWMC, click here.