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The St Albans Artist Adding Colour To Local Landmarks

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We meet St Albans artist Hannah Sessions to talk about her love of the area and why she has joined forces with St Albans BID

Were you a creative child?

From a very young age I always loved arts and colouring. I grew up away from all technology and TV, so creativity kept me busy in my free time.

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Hannah Sessions

When did art become a career option for you?

I studied Textile Design & Art in Central Saint Martins, the University of the Arts in London, and at my end-of-degree show, Mothercare spotted my work and offered me an interview and then a full-time job as a design assistant. I was very thankful for the opportunity and it was the start of my commercial career. I launched my own design business around eight years ago and offer house and building commissions, map designs and anything people would like drawn – pets are becoming very popular!

How would you describe your style?

I would like to say that it’s colourful and playful with a hand written and drawn feel. My designs can be hung as pieces of art and are very adaptable so can be used on a wide selection of products from home and children’s accessories to stationery and gifts.

How do you tend to work?

I like to draw by hand and then finalise the design on the computer or iPad. I paint by hand if that’s the style I need to create the look I’m after.

Rose And Crown Pub St Albans
The Rose & Crown, St Albans

You recently designed a range with St Albans pubs and maps on it. Why?

St Albans is very well known for its huge variety of eclectic pubs, some of which are quite famous in their own right. I thought that the locals, who are very passionate about the pubs and their history, would enjoy a design that features all of the fun and entertaining names. Alongside pubs I thought a map of the city would be an interesting and meaningful illustration for locals and a great gift to give away or keep.

How did you come to be involved with St Albans BID?

I’m well-known for illustrations of St Albans landmarks and I can always be found on my stall at the Charter Market. BID approached me about their new 22/23 Visitor Guide and asked if I would like to create a map of the town. I’m very happy to promote the city through my work, so I jumped at the chance to help.

What does your map for the visitor guide show?

My map directs people to the key shopping areas and highlights the streets where visitors can discover the city centre’s exceptional collection of independent shops and restaurants. It also shows the main visitor highlights including attractions like the Museum + Gallery and the Cathedral, and recreational places such as Verulamium Park and the Albans Arena alongside parking areas and train stations. It’s a fun and vibrant snapshot of St Albans. The guide is packed full with helpful information about the area, it’s inspiring and helps people make the most of their visit. I’m really delighted to be part of it. 

Bid Brochure Map A
Hannah’s map for St Albans BID’s Visitor Guide

How long have you lived in St Albans and what do you love about it?

I have lived here for about 16 years and I’m happy to call it home. I love the mix of art and cultures, both old and new. There’s also a great sense of community and I really enjoy the festival days when the town is transformed into a big party.

If possible, can you pick out your three favourite places in the area?

Fade to Black is my go-to place for coffee and cake, it’s got a really relaxed and friendly vibe. I love the buzz of the Charter Market, which is on every Wednesday and Saturday – you can find me there on my stall so come and say hello. Verulamium Park is beautiful and there’s a stunning view of the Cathedral from across the lake, it’s very peaceful.

With summer here, are there any outdoor spots you particularly love visiting?

St Albans has an incredible amount of green space. I love visiting Clarence Park for its historical beauty and Highfield Park for its wild and open space, you can take lovely longs walks there and be amongst nature. 

Whats next for you?

I’m busy working on Christmas already! I have several projects that I’m completing and I’m always open to new commissions. I’d love to work on more maps and create new ranges of products for different towns and cities across the UK.

Visit hannahsessionsdesign.com and go to enjoystalbans.com to download the new St Albans Visitor Guide 22/23

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