We interviewed local freelance graphic designer and illustrator, Nicole Long (aka Striped Flamingo). Her whimsy, vintage, girlie, pastel-coloured illustrations are simply beautiful – it’s right up my street. Don’t be surprised if you find Nicole’s work familiar – she has designed a ton of gorgeous stuff for Mr. Price (lucky Mr. Price)!

Q:  Tell us a bit about yourself… where you’re from, what you do, any likes / dislikes?

Born in JHB, grown up in Durban. I got my Graphic design degree at Durban University of Technology. I work full time for a Fashion retail store and freelance in my spare time. I love illustration and quirky drawings – my children’s cook book, Little Chef was my stepping stone.

These lovely shoes formed part of a whimsy calendar illustrator Nicole Long designed for 2012.

Q:  How did you get into the illustration business? Do you have an art or design background?

I have been drawing and painting since before I can remember and I always knew I’d carry it through in whatever I did.

I just love the multitude of textures on this vintage camera illustration.

This wordsy illustration Nicole designed as part of a 2012 calendar for Mr. Price.

Q:  Where do you draw inspiration from when designing?

I draw inspiration from everything and anything around me – from food packaging, colours, children,  the outdoors, and even things people say.

Her gorgeous use of soft pastels contributes greatly to the whimsy feel of the illustrations.

Q:  Is there a certain style you admire or aspire to?

I like simple, pretty and hand drawn.

Q:  Could you share your Secret Indulgence with us?

Shopping for my home, furniture and interior design.

No Nicole – YOU are my favourite! Love this little typewriter – another work for Mr. Price.

How romantic – I adore the whisper of floral in her dress.

Q:   What is your favourite current décor trend?

Aztecs and geometrics in fabrics

Q:  Tell us five things on your Bucket List…

Have my own shop

Holiday in Thailand

Publish more books

Travel Africa

Run comrades

Awesome retro dial phone illustration- who wouldn’t love this gift card?!

Q:  Do you have a colour that you favour most and why?

Pastel colours, they are soft and refreshing and bring me peace.

A fresh polka dot and protea design.

Home Sweet Home – super cute!

Q:  What do you have on your bedside table at the moment?

A bridal magazine, a fineliner, iPod & a white clock from typo

Q:  Future plans?

A few fabric houses are about to stock my fabrics, I’d like to expand my range and get them into more shops.

Little Chef, Nicole’s children’s cookbook. It’s filled with cute and quirky illustrations and yummy recipes perfect for the little ones.

{Find more of Nicole’s AWESOME work on her blog: Striped Flamingo, or follow her on Twitter: here.}