Geffen Refaeli is an illustrator based out of Tel Aviv, Israel. Her work, which is directly inspired by the creatives and artists she follows, implements all or part of an idea/image and reconstructs it to emblazon her own whimsical illustrative format. Her pet project, @dailydoodlegram, started as a simple way to challenge her creativity on a daily basis. Four years later, she’s kept up with her daily posts, amassing quite the following on Instagram. In turn, this has fueled a line of printed tees, books, stationery prints and a calendar. She is currently working on her own small book of illustrations due for 2017.
How did you get started as an artist?
I started drawing when I was 4, so I guess then. Some of my best work is from that time.
What’s your favorite medium to work with?
Ink! Black and white, color. I love the feeling of ink on heavyweight paper.
How long does it typically take for you to finish a piece?
Depends on the work – When I do the DDG illustrations, it takes me about 30min to do the drawing itself, but can take me hours to think of an idea. The point of the project is to make it as spontaneous and fast as I can.
Which animal do you most identify with and why?
I love all animals (really. bats also) but I would probably say a cat. They are smart, lazy, funny as hell and they love cheese.
How do you challenge yourself to grow and stay creative?
The DDG project motivated me for a long time- doing something like this most days for 4 years and have a sort of responsibility to the project is really important to me. I try to always plan and think about the next thing I want to make by surrounding myself with creative people, that’s what always gets me motivated and reminds me how much I love to make art. When I see and hear people talk about their work and projects, and develop ideas together I always have the urge to create and push forward.
Do you have any future projects/collaborations in the works that you’re excited about?
At the moment i’m working on new DDG Tees, some prints and calendars for the new year, a book i’m illustrating- but i’m already thinking about an idea I have for a small book I want to make in 2017.
Do you have any advice you’d like to give someone starting out as an artist?
Actually I don’t – I think I’m also starting as an artist and trying to find my way! I would like someone to advise me too.
