Badly Drawn Models
Probably the most popular bad drawings out there, “Badly Drawn Models” is a series started by artist Sean Ryan a few years ago and has since taken off in a huge way. With around 65k followers on Instagram, Sean posts his interpretive illustrations of models from Kate Moss to Harry Styles. Since, he’s even started an account for “Badly Drawn Celebrities” and “Badly Drawn DJs” that include pieces of the likes of Lady Gaga, Prince and Goldie. Sean’s passion for drawing was evoked from a young age, so it’s no surprise that he has gone on to become a successful artist in his own right. Read on to hear more from Sean about his badly drawn models.
How did “Badly Drawn Models” first come about?
So I started drawing footballers a few years back, and I’d limit myself to about 60 seconds on each one. It was always just a bit of fun but a few friends said they liked the drawings, so I just carried on and started sharing them online. I followed quite a few fashion accounts on Instagram and started drawing the models featured on them as they had such interesting looks. I set up a new account to share my work and the models I drew found them funny, so it’s continued from there.
When did you start illustrating and why?
I’ve always loved drawing, ever since I was a kid. I’d always draw faces and animals and hugely inspired by cartoons on TV and magazines. I’d copy Bart Simpson drawings over and over. I stopped drawing for a few years as other work got in the way, but started again when I started my “Badly Drawn” series.
How did you develop your unique illustration style?
Haha, thanks! So it’s just how I draw. I don’t really intentionally try and draw badly, but somehow that’s just how my drawings turn out. I genuinely can’t draw very well!
With over 65k followers on Instagram – what do you think made your platform blow up?
I’ve been shared by some celebrities and models with big followings over the years, so my following seemed to grow from there. Edward Enninful was featured on the Instagram account and gave Badly Drawn Models a mention! I couldn’t believe it, and got thousands of followers in minutes. Similarly, Gemma Styles shared a drawing I did of Harry and I gained something like 5000 new followers. It was crazy. Getting featured by the likes of Dazed, i-D and Paper Magazine really helped to.
Out of all the models and celebrities you have drawn – which one stand outs to you as your favourite?
It’s always hard to pick a favourite because there have been so many people who have been great to draw – and got in touch to say they’ve seen their drawing. I recently heard that Kate Moss had seen the drawing I did of her. She was one of the first models I ever drew and just a huge icon and inspiration, so maybe I’ll say Kate Moss as one of my favourites.
What responses do you usually receive about your work?
Most people seem to like them, which is always nice to hear and it’s always a relief that no one gets offended. I get some people asking me to re-draw their portrait because it’s too good! So, they ask if I can make it WORSE, which is a funny thing to hear.
Where do you wish to take your practice in the future?
I recently started trying to paint and I really enjoyed it, although I’m definitely still learning. I find it really relaxing and it’s been keeping me busy through lockdown, so I hope to try and paint a bit more. I started a new account last year - Badly Drawn DJs – so I’m also focussing on that.
Interview GABY MAWSON
More to read
