Carlotta Hey’s work sits somewhere between fashion drafting and portrait study—pared back, measured, and confident. With a limited palette and a designer’s precision, she maps out the body without excess. Her illustrations focus on attitude through silhouette and detail, giving the viewer just enough to read the moment. It’s fashion without noise, distilled to its essentials.
What emotion or idea keeps sneaking into your work, even when you try to avoid it?
Fashion, and how it can act as personal expression and a public façade at the same time. My artwork consis-tently returns to this theme. It delves into the interplay between what we show, what we feel, and how these elements shape our identities and experiences.
What role does control play in your work and how often do you let go?
Let go? Never. Control is everything to me. A structured approach definitely helps me convey my creative vision. Having complete control over elements such as color. composition, and linework allows me to create pieces that fit with my intended message.
What does your studio smell like on a good day?
A wild mix, actually. Freshly sharpened wood pencils, bergamot and sage essential oils, and a hint of acetone.
Where does a piece usually begin—image, word, impulse, or accident?
All of the above and more! My process is often a blend of planned and spontaneous elements, but it all starts with a spark of inspiration—and that can come from anywhere.From there, I might translate the idea into words, writing down themes or feelings that resonate with me. This helps to shape the vision for the illustration. Once I have a solid concept, I move to the image-making stage, where sketches start to take form on paper.
What’s the most beautiful mistake you’ve ever kept?
My favorite is an accidental line in my illustration of Jean Cocteau for Cartier’s 50th anniversary of the trinity ring. Mistake, maybe, or at least I thought it was, but I later realized this accidental line contributed to the work’s overall impact. It became the focal point that made the piece. It became the final art for the campaign.