D&AD Meets: POC Creatives — Illustrator Erin Aniker on creative networks, Turkish patterns and burnout

“It took moving and living somewhere that wasn’t as diverse, for me to really appreciate growing up in a multicultural city” For London-based illustrator Erin Aniker, the lack of diversity whilst studying at Norwich University of the Arts, was a huge wake up call to the stark realities of the wider industry. Drawing inspiration from the mix of cultures in her community and the immediate influence of her own dual heritage, Erin’s work features women of all shapes and sizes. Inspired by the geometry and precision of Islamic geometric patterns, alongside her love for British magazines and media, it’s no wonder this Turkish-British Londoner is able to boldly design an intersectional take on the world.  With a heavy weight of clients under her belt such as The Body Shop, Stylist and The Washington Post, the young illustrator balances projects, workshops, and chasing invoices as part of her freelance life.

In the first of a new series of features focusing on POC creatives, Nicole Crentsil speaks with Erin on the power of building creative networks, the reality of life as a freelancer, and advice for young creatives.