Fashion illustrator, Rachael Meckling was in the third issue of OTMzine and has been an extremely busy artist since then. Graduating from Ryerson, taking on the wrong job and moving back home all lead Rachael to focus on her inspiration for illustration. Our favourite qualities about her illustrations? The fact that they are wildly feminine and intricate, two qualities that combine to create a definite style that sets her apart from other illustrators. Catch up with Rachael by reading our quick Q & A with her and feast your eyes on a few of her latest illustrations below.

What have you been up to since you were in Issue 3 of OTMzine?
Oh my! I’ve had quite the year. I worked briefly (and I mean briefly) at the head office for a major Canadian company in Montreal as a graphic design assistant and then soon realized it wasn’t for me. So I came home to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan where my family resides. I’ve been working my own hours at my new job which gives me a lot more time to do my own work, however I haven’t posted anything yet (stay tuned!)

What’s been inspiring you lately?
It’s been great to be back in my hometown, we have a fantastic art and music scene which might be a surprise to some people. Being able to get into that here is a lot easier and more fun because I have many more personal connections with fellow artists here. I get to see some of my favourite artists out and about and I don’t have just to be in a digital universe. That’s really helped me slow down and appreciate more things which has definitely helped me become more inspired. The prairies are gorgeous (at the right times of the year) and the skies are a massive display of cotton candy colours each night, if you knew me you would know how much I love clouds.

What is your favourite piece that you’ve created for Spring 2012?
My absolute favourite collection for Spring 2012 in fashion was Jill Stuart’s. I also liked House of Holland and a million others, so one afternoon I just drew my favourite outfits from their collections. I think my favourite was Jill Stuart’s lemon yellow baby doll blouse and hot pants! GUSH.

What are your plans in the next year or so?
For me, just living and drawing here, hanging out with my niece Poppy and nephew Raine, my lovely three sisters and boyfriend is enough. I miss Toronto everyday, but I couldn’t imagine being there at this point in my life. I am working on a series which should make it to my website within the next few months. I’m really enjoying line drawing so the next body of work you see will definitely be in ink!