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2 MINS WITH... FLORE DE HOOG

We recently caught up with Flore de Hoog, a Glasgow-based artist specialising in bespoke wall designs, all drawn by hand.

During our chat, Flore opened up about the journey behind her unique business, and how she keeps the creative spark alive. She also shared how her other passions help her avoid burnout — valuable insights that will inspire anyone on a creative career path!

Ready? Let’s dive in!

Flore drawing a design on a wall

Hey Flore, tell us your story. How did you first get into design - and specifically, wall art?

Hi there! It’s quite a long story. After finishing a degree in fine art and completing the last two years of a degree in textiles, I moved to London to work as a textile designer. I soon realised I missed my Glasgow life and came back up to work in all kinds of non-art related jobs for around a decade.

Then a friend of mine took me to a life drawing class, which reminded me that I had a background in art that I had completely forgotten about. Around the same time, I broke my elbow which meant I couldn’t work in hospitality anymore. That was when I realised that people seemed to like the drawings I was making! With a background in textiles, I was already fascinated by repeated patterns and loved to draw them by hand, so my drawings often featured those patterns.

Then one day, my friend who was decorating their flat suggested I draw one of my designs directly onto their wall. And that’s how it all began!

Flore drawing a design on a green wall under wooden stairs

What - in your opinion - makes wall art unique compared to digital or printed designs?

I love the handmade feel to my work, the slight imperfections, which is something you just don’t find in printed or digital work. It brings it to life and gives the client a completely unique artwork that is custom to them and can’t be found anywhere else.
 

What’s your favourite part of what you do?

Tough one. I love the freedom my work gives me, the lovely people I meet, and the fact they trust me to create work in their homes. I’ve met so many wonderful people, and while the artistic process can be terrifying, it’s always turned out well in the end!

A navy blue wall covered in Flores hand drawn pattern

Glasgow has a rich art scene. How has the city influenced your work as an artist?

In all honesty, I was intimidated for years by the sheer amount of amazing creative people and makers. It actually stopped me from doing anything creative for years – I've always struggled so much with imposter syndrome. There’s such a creative vibe in the air, and everyone seems to have their own unique, fantastic art. I never felt like I could live up to that! 

That said, with so many amazing shows on all the time and steep competition, I’ve come to see it as something I’m proud to be part of, rather than something to fear.
 

What has been the highlight of your career so far? Besides seeing Alan Cumming wear your design on national TV, of course!  

There’s been so many! I loved when Alan Cumming randomly bought one of my t-shirts and decided to help me promote my work. I also loved the article Homes & Interiors Scotland magazine did on me and my collaboration with Lick paint, where I was filmed drawing on a wall at Dystopia music studio. That was just great!

Alan Cumming wearing Flore's "Hug yer dug" T-shirt design

Complete the sentence. You can’t start your day without...?

Walking Pat the dog and a pep talk. Imposter syndrome is a huge part of my life and career, so I need to keep myself hyped and remind myself I’ve got this.

Flore sitting on stairs with her dog Pat in front of a wall with her design

How do you stay inspired and avoid creative burnout, especially when each project requires such a high level of creativity?

Not gonna lie, it’s hard. I still try to do a lot of random drawing and painting that aren’t related to any of the projects, just to remind myself what I like doing!

I also balance work with playing in my two bands, BrendaWater Machine – tours, gigs, etc. break up my routine and keep me from stagnating! For me, it's important to constantly mix stuff up. I easily get bored and need to have my finger in different pies at all times.
 

What piece of advice would you give to someone just starting out on a creative path?

DO IT. At least give it a try. There’s a good chance you could build a life where, yes, you definitely work hard, but at least all the effort goes into your own work, and you decide when and who to work with. Also, CHARGE. Let’s eliminate the narrative of the starving artist. Educate yourself on some basic business stuff and never undercharge. Your art is worth money, and if some people aren’t willing to pay you fairly for your work, they’re not the right client for you. I feel very passionate about this - as you can probably tell!

A staircase and wall with Flores hand drawn rose pattern

Are there any dream projects or collaborations you’re hoping to take on in the future?

Hmm, I’d love to work with more businesses, and after having done a mural recently, that’s definitely something I’d like to explore. But for now, keep sending me your freaky ideas and let me bring them to life!
 

And lastly, what does it mean for you to #LiveNaked?

Don’t conform to societal norms unless you really want to. Choose your own freaky path, believe in yourself and never stop being silly. I might not always have tons of money, but I have the freedom to spend my time doing the things that I love and be creative every day. That’s special. 

A close up of Flore drawing a design on a green wall

Cheers Flore!

You can find out more about Flore here and don't forget to follow us on Instagram to catch our next edition of 2 Minutes with Someone Naked!

 

February 04, 2025