Pick Me Up

-Illustration by Jim Spencer

-Illustration by Michael Kirkham

-Illustration by Paul X Johnson

-Illustration by Paul X Johnson

Each Spring (since 2010), Somerset House in London opens up its doors to the contemporary graphic art fair that is 'Pick Me Up'. The fair showcases an eclectic mix of graphic artists and illustrators, providing visitors with not just the opportunity to peruse the latest offerings of the graphic art scene but also with the possibility of purchasing artwork. 

The layout this year varied slightly from the last with the the introduction of Pick Me Up Selects, 20 artists from across the globe chosen to exhibit their artwork. This is the first space to greet you upon entering the fair, whilst upstairs, throughout a collection of rooms, collectives and galleries showcase their work in typical Pick Me Up fashion.

2012 sees the art lean more so towards illustration rather than graphics and it was particularly pleasing to see the inclusion of draughtsmanship as naive illustrations have tended to dominate in recent years. There was plenty on offer to excite and stimulate, but those which caught my eye in particular were the beautiful muted tones of Paul X Johnson, the bold shapes and subdued colours of Michael Kirkham and the brilliant, realistic portraits of Jim Spencer, a friend from my university days.

Pick Me Up runs until April 1st.