Q&A with Lou Rayburn
Lou Rayburn Prints sells affordable, fun & colourful Screen print style & photographic prints in Portobello. We spoke to Lou after our virtual January Sale event.
Tell us about Lou Rayburn Prints - what do you sell, when did you start, how long have you been trading at Portobello market? Did you study an art-based subject at school?
I started Lou Rayburn Prints in 2012. I create colourful, affordable screen print style & photographic prints.
I initially sold my work at Duckpond Market in Richmond (which I still do on a Sunday in the normal world). I have been trading at Portobello Market on Fridays & Saturdays since 2018 & love it. I grew up in Notting Hill so it’s great to get a fix of market life here & always drive past the house I was born in on my way home.
I had previously worked in casting for Film, Television & Commercials for 17 years before taking the plunge & studying art, photography & digital media to learn the skills I needed to make the artwork I was keen to create.
Since COVID have you made any changes to the ways you operate your business? How important is social media now compared to before?
Yes I have had to come into the 21st century! Making a business Instagram account @lourayburnprints & recently an Etsy shop. Which has been great for people to find me while the COVID restrictions are here.
You’ve taken part in a few virtual events. Tell me about @visitportobello’s January Sale - what were your experiences and impressions: anything positive? Surprising? Areas for improvement?
It’s been brilliant taking part in @visitportobello’s January sale. Most of the people who contacted me had bought my work before at the market & wanted another print to go with their previous purchase.
Who is an artist that inspires you today?
I’m inspired by so many, it’s too hard to choose one Artist that inspires me but I’m always drawn to colourful work.
Could you share a few examples of the colourful artworks that inspire you?
I love so many colourful artworks I really wouldn’t know where to start. I’m mainly inspired by what I come across on a daily adventure in lovely London Town.
Do you have any hopes or aspirations for when things get back to normal?
My hope is that we can safely be back at Portobello soon - I think I speak for all my lovely market mates, we miss the market & hope the market is missing us & that we all get a great Summer.
Is your dog Maisie well known in the Portobello Market and do you bring her to work with you?
Yes Maisie is my market mutt & is a very friendly & popular pooch - people come specially to see her each week for a cuddle.
