Introducing "The 13th Hour" – our absorbing new weekly interview series! Dive into the fascinating worlds of our talented artists as we explore their inspirations, dream projects, creative processes, and so much more.

Kicking off the series, we're thrilled to chat with Willkay, a London-based creative chameleon, delving into topics like Andy Warhol, a London city upbringing, the beauty of nature, poetic influences, the iconic 70s, and beyond!

1 - At 13am, we aim to celebrate and showcase a broad range of creative roles, disciplines and skillsets. How would you describe yourself and your role within the creative world to those unfamiliar with yourwork?

My name is Willkay. I am an artist, graphic designer and writer. I use various mediums such as photography, illustration, graphic design and art direction to express and expand my creativity.

2 - Another aspect that sets 13am apart is our commitment to diversity and representation among our artists. Could you share a bit about your background and where you call home?

I was brought up in London. It has been home for most of my life. My first experience with Art was in primary school, winning a drawing competition about how my city would look like in the future. In secondary school, I always wanted to be surrounded by creativity and sports. At College, I was introduced to one of my favourite artists H.R Giger, who influenced my line style and monochrome themes. I achieved a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design at Central Saint Martins and then I attained a BA (Hons) in Graphic Design at the University of the Arts London.

3 - How would you define your artistic style? Has it evolved or undergone any changes over time?

My artistic style has evolved over the years and will keep changing. My core style will always be hand-drawn illustrations mixed with graphic design themes. I am an open-minded artist, any vision is possible to accomplish. When it comes to my work, client briefs and projects, I draw inspiration from the audience, literature and inspiration from the world. At times, I share my stories with an audience from all walks of life, which is what art is about.

4 - Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you transform an idea into a tangible piece of work?

My creativity is influenced in several ways, depending on the brief, time, mood and environment, I start by researching through books, documentaries, drawing up ideas and formulating a few directions. Visiting galleries and exhibitions for references. I immersed myself in the subject matter to find what would help generate a new piece of work.

5 - In terms of inspiration, where do you go to find this? Who were your main influencers and inspirations as you were growing up?

My main influences have come from all walks of life, nature is something that I have always admired, drawing animals, landscapes and random objects. New environments influence my work and also explore new ideas. Life experiences play a huge role in influencing new themes of imagination, colour concepts and character arcs for my work. Collaborating with other artists/creatives helps me expand my artistic horizons and ignite fresh ideas. Being exposed to unfamiliar mediums encourages me to step out of my comfort zone and create unique work. I am also influenced by different music genres, films, documentaries and books.

6 - What advice would you offer aspiring artists or illustrators looking to establish themselves in the industry?

Art has no age limit. Even if you don’t speak the same language, art allows you to communicate. It unites people from all around the world. Feed your creativity every day. Invest in your talent and one day it will pay off.

7 - Creative roadblocks affect many individuals in our field. How do you unwind and revitalize your creative energy? Are there any hobbies or passions you pursue outside of your work?

Creative roadblocks happen regularly, I first identify what is causing my creative roadblock. I reflect on my past projects and successes to remind myself of my strengths. I take a break and step away from my work by going for walks, bike rides, watching a theatre play, documentaries and films. In my free time, I enjoy catching up on reading, visiting galleries and exhibitions.

8 - Reflecting on your career, could you share a standout project or collaboration that you consider a highlight? How did the opportunity come about?

My stand-out project would have to be The Greatest Hits mural for the Museum of London, It challenged how far I could push my creativity and combined all of my skills. I worked with a team at the Museum of London which included, Dhelia Snoussi, Youth Cultural Curator at the Museum of London, Theresa Dhaliwal Davies, Curatorial Producer at the Museum of London, who worked on Grime Stories: from the Corner to the mainstream Exhibition, Co-curated by Roony ‘RiskyRoadz’ Keefe.

I was commissioned to create a panoramic illustration of East London and retail merchandise. My name was submitted for choosing which artist would create “The Greatest Hits mural”. Collaborating with the team from the Museum was very inspirational, I shared the same vision and the results were amazing. It meant so much and on reflection, the finished products and work demonstrated how London has changed throughout the generations and emphasised the cultures we have today.

9 - Can you provide a little insight into your current projects and any upcoming plans you have in the pipeline? Is there anything we should be looking out for in the not too distant future?

The direction I am going in is writing poetry, character arcs, soft worldbuilding and graphic novels. I have always admired how graphic novels allow you to tackle life issues through visual interpretations, ways to emotive responses and connection with the reader and stories.

10 - What has your experience been like collaborating with 13am thus far, and what motivated you to join forces with us?

I wanted to be part of 13am because it champions artists from around the world, it champions distinctive work from creatives. I have enjoyed collaborating with 13am, the characteristics that have been so essential and made it enjoyable for me are mutual respect, clear communication and a connection with common goals. I feel these qualities have extended to creativity to support diverse ideas. Artists express themselves through their work. Art allows you to unite people from all around the world.

11 - Looking ahead, what would be your dream project or client to tackle in the future?

I would love the opportunity to work with IKEA, Habitat and LEGO.

12 - To conclude on a lighter note, imagine hosting a dinner party where you could invite four individuals, living or deceased, who would they be and why?

My Dinner table guests would include Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Susan Sontag and Frank Ocean. They are very influential, they come from all walks of life, different eras and experiences, hence they have different opinions and outlooks on life. A dinner party with the four of them will not only be entertaining but extremely insightful. We could all learn something from each other.

13 - If you were granted the power of time travel, which historical event would you choose to witness firsthand, and what intrigues you about it?

If I was granted the power of time travel, I would go back to 1970s Neo-expressionism era, which was diverse and full of Surrealism, abstract, pop art and more. What intrigued me about this time in history is because Artists such as Jean Michel Basquiat, George Condo, Philip Guston and Andy Warhol helped pave the way, they showcased a simple yet complex style line with brushstrokes, provocative illustrations, paintings and layering within their work with words and writing.