Alice Robertson started drawing sad little characters soon after graduating in Printed Textiles, from Middlesex University in 2002. Since then she has also completed a PGCE in Secondary Art and Design, taught for a couple of years in various London schools, spent 18 very happy months living in Melbourne, Australia and learnt to produce slightly less depressing illustrations! As well as making straight-forward illustrations she also works on clothing, tea towels, badges, and makes little fabric people and creatures. All of her work is hand-crafted. She can currently be found selling her wares on sundays at The Backyard Market, Brick Lane.

Why did you draw this character for Small?

When I saw the theme I really liked it. I think it is very easy to start to feel a little bit small living in London sometimes, and this is definitely something I have struggled with in the past. I didn’t plan the illustration. I just thought about how it feels when life makes you smaller, started drawing and that’s what came out.

Drawing on paper bags - artistic intention or closest material to hand?

A little bit of both really. I do a lot of drawings when I am sitting on my market stall so brown paper bags are often the easiest thing to draw on. I am a fan of brown paper though. It’s cheap and it definitely has a certain charm.

What happened in Australia to cheer you up so much? What's wrong with England?

What happened in Australia? A lot of lovely people, a lot of fun and far too much wine! They seem to prioritise life over work in Melbourne, which I like.

No, really, what do you think is the main thing wrong with society today?

I think that as a society we seem to have lost sight of some basic values. I also think we would all benefit from having tea and cake with our neighbours occasionally.

How is it selling your work directly on Brick Lane? So many people sell their art primarily online or via others these days - how do you find this close relationship to your audience?

I love selling my work at the market. It is so nice when people like what you’re doing and want to talk to you about it. I also love meeting other people selling their work. It is brilliant to be surrounded by creative people and to be able to get inspiration and talk about ideas. It reminds me a little bit of being at art college.