Indie Designers Q&A: Cardinky by Dannyboy

Getting back into our indie spotlight series, this week we’re getting to know Dannyboy! Dannyboy (and his Dachshund, Bob) are the creative minds behind Cardinky, the independent designer behind the cheeky and fun designs that you’ve seen across the Funky Pigeon ranges, from birthdays to leaving cards and much more!

So, join us as we dig into the mind of Dannyboy and learn more about the creative process behind Cardinky’s unique funny and lovable style! (and of course, don’t forget to check out some of his cards to get inspired for your next celebration!)

Introduce yourself…

I am a freelance Cartoonist, Illustrator & Sausage Stroker from Warrington who is mostly obsessed with Dachshunds, coffee & cycling. I’ve been running Cardinky since 2013, originally from a small loft room and now from a shared artist studio and the spare room. I mostly love having time to draw and thinking of ways to make people lol.

Describe your typical work day…

Coffee, Sausage walk, coffee, doodle, hmmm….., bike ride, coffee, hmmmm…, doodle, zzzzzzz.

Who or what inspires your work?

I love some of the Old Cartoonists often featured in magazines such as ‘Punch’, my absolute favourite is Jean Jacques Sempé, he was a master of economising the line.

What sort of cards do you love to design?

Old School Cartoons with a modern twist.

What are your favourite cards that you’ve designed and why?

I like the ‘Santa’s Sorting Office’ design because it has that traditional feel and very cheeky humour that is a very simple visual gag. I also like the Noddy & Big Ears range as they are quite rude.

How did you get into greeting card design?

Completely by accident whilst working in a gallery I got the chance to design a couple of products for a pop-up shop and the first thing that came to mind was a card.

What’s your creative process?

I spend a lot of time thinking of silly ideas/ scenario’s, often around a theme, for example-‘Gardening’ and then start to think of humorous situations around the theme. I watch a lot of Old cartoons read comics and am often sketching character ideas in a sketchbook.

What are the challenges you face as an independent artist? And the joys?

Challenges: Always thinking of fresh ideas. Joys: Thinking of a good idea and bringing it to life with a pencil.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I like to be as silly as possible with my Son. Go for long bike rides with friends & enjoy Football & going to the gym to get buff. I also like to watch ‘arty’ films and go to Art exhibitions.

See more of Cardinky’s card designs below or view the full range here!