Spotlight.
Kumi McKenna
INTRODUCTION
Kumi McKenna is a Scottish Japanese Illustrator and printmaker based in Glasgow. Her work utilises bold shapes and colours, texture and nostalgia to create illustrations that are accessible to wide audiences. Adding to the nostalgia, she often uses her Riso-Printer to print her work and zines in it's signature vivid ink. Much of her work is inspired by Japanese visuals with a twang of Scottish humour. Her clients include Scottish Ballet, Glasgow Zine Library and The Hunterian.
INTERVIEW
How did you get into your creative practice? What initially inspired you?
My love of illustration comes from growing up watching Sailor Moon and other anime similar. I was always drawing my own superheroes. My mum had a few special edition versions of books such as The Chronicles of Narnia or Thomas the Tank engine which were beautifully illustrated and had such an impressive presence when she'd bring them out for bedtime stories. Digital media lacks this 'feeling', which is why I love printmaking and use my Riso-Printer to complete many of my illustrations. Not only that, but it means my artwork can belong to other people and hopefully curate it's own atmosphere within their homes!
What themes do you tend to interrogate in your creative practices?
My work plays a lot on nostalgia and humour, but I am trying to start balancing this with more mature elements whilst still retaining my style. My 2026 calendar and card are both horse inspired but lean into these two opposing sides.
What is your favourite project you’ve ever worked on and why?
My ongoing calendars! For the past few years, I have been making calendars and new year's cards in correspondence with the Chinese zodiac animal. Sometimes I think it's easy to neglect your practice in December - you're busy Christmas shopping or socialising or trying to get things together in time for New Year. Having a calendar every year forces me to stay creative, especially as it is a yearly tradition now. 2026 is Year of the Horse (which are notoriously hard to draw). I tried to evoke a feeling of hope within this one, as I think we all need it! Hopefully in 30 or so years I can hold an exhibition showcasing each calendar. It's my first (accidentally) long term project.
What advice would you have for creatives of colour looking to get into your creative practices?
Find your community! If you're a bit shy like me, join group chats or discords with other creatives or POC. It's a great way to connect with others and it might even lead to an opportunity for paid work or friendships. You could even collaborate with the people you meet like zines or animation. Most importantly - protect yourself! Make sure you have a contract and make sure you get a deposit, especially from first time clients. In the world of AI we must protect our work.
What are you currently working on?
I have finally accepted that TikTok and Reels are staying, so I am working on doing some animated version of my illustrations.