Introduce yourself.
My name is Sadie Smith! I’m a graphic designer with a passion for illustration and character design! I personally enjoy detailed work that is bright and saturated, with a focus on fantasy settings and monster girls.
Where are you from originally?
Oxford, MS
What attracted you to the Department of Art & Art History?
My sister and mother had graduated from Ole Miss as well as my grandma having worked on this campus so it was a bit of tradition for me to go here as well.
What type of artwork do you create?
I do mostly illustration and character design but I have done some work in advertising as well!
Could you explain your process?
I usually find a theme that inspires me and make a character based off of that aesthetically. I personally enjoy doing characters that are loose personifications of things or aesthetics.
Which artists do you look to for inspiration?
I am inspired a lot by my fellow artist friends, we grow and develop our styles together and push each other to keep developing our craft and have a genuine love for creating. I also usually look at artists’ work through Instagram. Artists like Ghoulkiss, Dreamyskullz, and a big name like Velvet Spectrum come to mind.
Photo of Sadie Smith
Which professors inspired you the most?
Tyler Barnes and Phillip Jackson are big inspirations to me personally. Tyler does fantastic graphic design work that is inspiring to look at and the way he breaks down his work process is very helpful to me. Jackson is a wonderful painter and teacher who will help you grow as an artist.
What has been your favorite class during your years here?
Packing Design was a fun class to take because of the way it combines 2D elements and translating them to 3D designs. It also helps graphic design work feel more “real” because of the tangible product you end up with.
Sugar Spike Show Card
Could you describe a favorite memory here in the department?
Working in the building late when you can be alone in the quiet working is always nice. There’s always this cool vibe when it’s dark out and you’re working in a lit room, you’re in your own little space.
What does the Department of Art & Art History mean to you?
It means being inspired by others around you and developing yourself as you go.
Do you have any advice for incoming art students?
Keep doing what you love, but branch out too! You may find something you thought you would hate to be your new favorite thing.
Sugar Spike character stickers.
What type of music do you listen to while you create art?
I listen to all kinds, I usually try to listen to music that matches the vibe of the art piece!
What are you binge-watching while being a couch potato?
I always love to curl up and watch a horror movie.
What is your favorite thing about Oxford or the University?
The diversity! I feel like there are so many different kinds of people and artists here that its inspiring to see what everyone is good at.
Do you have any hobbies?
Not really! Art is my work and my relaxation tool.
What is your favorite restaurant in Oxford?
China Royale!
Can we find you on social media?
Not currently.
Do you have any plans after graduation?
Continue to develop characters and hopefully get a job as a graphic designer!