We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lucie Totton. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lucie below.
Lucie , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Growing up, my mom ran a garage art studio called “Hi Art Studio,” where she hosted a summer art camp for our neighborhood. Through painting, crafting, and experimenting with different techniques—like those swirly shaving cream prints and tempera paint animal hybrids—she built a tight-knit community. Art was always at the heart of those connections, and being part of it fueled my own creative spirit. When we moved across the world to Abu Dhabi, as exciting as it was to start a new chapter of my life, I lost the community I had grown up with. Adjusting to a completely new country and environment was tough, and for a while I struggled to find the same kind of relationships I once had. But just like when I was little, art found its way back to me. In middle school I started creating again, and through it I formed a new community—one filled with fellow creatives who inspired and pushed me to grow. That was when I realized my true calling: to create. I had other hobbies—writing, tennis, running—but nothing lit me up the way art did. Around that time, I also started my first art account on Instagram. As embarrassing as it is to look back on, being part of the online art community gave me even more motivation to share my work and stories with the world.
Now, as an illustration major at SCAD, studying what I love most, I know I wouldn’t be here without the incredible creative people I’ve had in my life. They’ve shaped my journey, and I’m beyond grateful for the way art has continually led me to where I’m meant to be.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m an illustrator and designer specializing in whimsical illustrations, environments, and characters that bring stories to life. My journey into professional illustration began in high school during my internship with MoDesign Studio, where I worked on projects like shop hoardings for restaurants, menu illustrations, signage, and more. That experience taught me invaluable lessons about the collaborative nature of the creative industry and the constant back and forth in the design process with the client.
Currently, I’m sharpening my skills in book and editorial illustration through my studies at SCAD, where I’ve truly found my calling. I love the challenge of capturing an entire story within a single image, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see my growth as I refine my craft. Just this past October I tackled one of my most ambitious projects yet—developing and illustrating a full storybook from initial character designs and environments to final page spreads. It was a demanding process, but with the guidance of my professor, who acted as an incredible art director, I created some of my favorite portfolio pieces to date.
Alongside illustration, I’m pursuing a minor in graphic design, which is the perfect pair as I plan on heading into the publishing industry. Understanding the relationship between type and image, composition, and color harmonies has deepened my appreciation for both disciplines and strengthened my work in each. I’ve especially grown to love poster design. In a recent project, I was challenged to create a series of posters using only typography, which initially felt daunting as someone who typically integrates type with illustration. However, that experience helped me discover the beauty and expressive potential of type on its own, expanding my design perspective and ultimately leading me to a final product I was incredibly proud of!
Beyond my studies, I share personal illustrations with my audience on Instagram and take commissions. It has been both creatively fulfilling and an exciting part of my journey throughout these years!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
The three qualities that have helped me get to where I am today are perseverance, a strong work ethic, and collaboration. A career in a creative field isn’t always easy—I’ve faced rejection and skepticism about my path. But no matter what, I’ve kept going and will continue pushing forward. My work ethic allows me to manage multiple projects at once while still delivering on time, and my ability to collaborate has helped me learn from others with different strengths, making me a better creative in the process.
I still have a lot to learn, but these are some key lessons that have shaped my journey so far:
1. Be open to feedback. As creatives it’s easy to get attached to our vision, but growth comes from listening to others. There’s always room to improve, and learning from those around us is invaluable and can more often than not make us better illustrators! In illustration especially, it’s crucial to listen to clients’ needs and ensure you’re delivering a strong final product.
2. Embrace new experiences. When we start, we often have a clear idea of where we want our careers to go. I initially wanted to pursue concept art for animation and games, but by exploring different skills and opportunities, I discovered my love for storytelling in illustration—which led me to book and editorial work. You never know what you’ll excel at until you try, so I encourage all artists to step outside their comfort zones. You might just find a new passion.
3. Put yourself out there. Being a great artist is important, but so is marketing yourself and confidently talking about your work. Building connections and presenting yourself with confidence can make a huge difference in your career. People appreciate seeing that passion and self-assurance in an artist, and can oftentimes make you more employable!
4. Failure is part of the process. Rejection is tough and no one enjoys it, but it’s inevitable in any creative career. To anyone preparing to enter this unpredictable and challenging industry don’t lose your spark! Remind yourself why you started in the first place, and let that passion drive you.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My parents have played a huge role in shaping me into the person I am today, and I feel incredibly lucky to have their support. Their generosity has truly changed my life, especially in helping me pursue my career. My mom in particular nurtured my creativity and passion, guiding me toward the artist I’ve become. But beyond creativity, my parents have given me experiences that have deeply influenced my work—one of the most significant being travel.
Visiting places like India, Thailand, Portugal, and more has opened my eyes to different cultures and perspectives, all of which continue to inspire my art. Just this past summer, I visited my grandparents in Portugal, where I spent time collecting visual references of beaches, towns, and art for future projects. One place that especially stuck with me was Óbidos, a medieval town filled with history and life. That visit alone has already inspired two different projects, including a collection of travel merchandise based on the town’s unique charm.
My parents have always pushed me to grow, believed in my abilities, and supported my journey as an illustrator. I wouldn’t be where I am now without them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lucietotton.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lili.artsss
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucietotton/
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