10 years of Bristol24/7: Parys Gardener

Bristol’s has long been a home for artists.

Many have taken up permanent residence in our bustling city while they navigate meaningful ways to flourish in their professions.

One of these artists is illustrator and digital artist Parys Gardener, who believes Bristol’s “strong sense of community” feeds into her art.

For someone who was told in school that she couldn’t draw, Gardener has a bunch of golden feathers in her hat. Her work has been featured on Comic Relief merchandise, The FA’s social media platforms, an Adidas pop-up, the front of the Bristol Beacon…the list goes on. Making a humble appearance on this list twice is Bristol24/7, with Gardener illustrating both our 2017 and 2020 magazine covers.

Gardener was once did work experience with Bristol24/7, years before she illustrated two of our covers – photo: Karen Johnson

Bristol24/7 last caught up with her in April, when she spoke with us about art, Bristol and all things in between.

We caught up with her again earlier this week.

She said: “Growing up here (in Bristol) and watching the way different cultures, communities, and creative movements intersect has shaped how I approach storytelling in my work.

“Bristol’s strong sense of community also feeds into my art; it’s a city where people look out for each other and lift each other up, which is a spirit I try to bring into my projects.

“I’m also very inspired by my British-Caribbean heritage, the Caribbean community’s contribution to Bristol and its cultural landscape.

“I specialise in crafting narratives that centre on themes of identity and decolonisation. Through my work, I aim to empower global majority communities by giving them a platform to share their voices.”

Gardner has also collaborated with Lush – photo: Parys Gardner

Gardener has spent the past four years honing her art which she now believes has “evolved in technique and purpose”.

“I’ve spent this time honing my skills in 2D vector illustration, working to develop a distinctive style that feels like an authentic extension of my identity and voice.

“I’ve also become more intentional about the messages my work conveys, especially around themes of identity, representation, and inclusivity.

“Collaborating with organisations like Channel 4, Comic Relief, and local arts institutions has pushed me to adapt my style for different audiences and platforms while keeping it true to the stories I want to tell.

“Through each new project, I am learning something new about my process and improving how I do things.”

 

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A post shared by Parys | Digital Illustrator (@parysgardenerart)

Even though Gardener’s choice to become an illustrator was “intentional and gradual”, several young artists are dreaming hard of reaching the heights she has now reached.

To those future illustrators, she said: “Trust that there’s a place for you, even if it doesn’t feel obvious right now.

“When I first started, I wasn’t sure how I’d find my path, especially coming from a background where a career in the arts wasn’t always seen as stable or secure.

“But with persistence and by embracing my unique perspective, I was able to carve out a space that feels both fulfilling and authentic.

“Don’t be afraid to take risks and experiment, and remember that your voice and experiences are valuable.

“Also, finding mentors and a supportive community can make all the difference.”

Tickets for our ten-year anniversary party are available now on the Spiegeltent website

This article is part of 10 Years of Bristol24/7, a series taking a look back at some of our magazine covers ahead of our anniversary party at the Spiegeltent on November 30. To get your tickets, visit christmasspiegeltent.co.uk/product/b10-celebrating-10-years-of-bristol-24-7-30th-nov.

Main photo: Parys Gardener 

Read next:

• Bristol24/7 is throwing a party you won’t want to miss!
• 10 years of Bristol24/7: NGAIO
• 10 years of Bristol24/7: Totterdown & North Bristol Art Trail