WHO IS 'MARILENA'?

I was born in Norway and grew up being the student who would always doodle in class instead of paying attention. Who would’ve thought I'd turn it into a career as an adult? I started freelancing as a comic book artist before moving to England to study illustration at the Arts University of Bournemouth.

This is also where I met my favourite person and partner in crime; Matthew.
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After university, I was still freelancing as a comic book artist, but started looking at her work a bit differently and wanted to explore different creative areas. I got involved with the mental health charity, Changes Bristol, and became their freelance Graphic and Motion designer. Since then I have worked for Go.Compare and Staysure, helping with illustrations, 3D modelling, Motion and Graphic design.
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Matthew and I are currently in Bristol with our cat, Pete, where we spend our days playing video games, working on creative projects and going on road trips.

WHAT CAN SHE DO FOR ME?

That’s what I'd like to ask you!

I can help you with most things really. After getting my BA in Illustration I started her career working on comics before using my storytelling skills for Changes Bristol and started doing graphic and motion design for them.

In my time as a creative I have gained experience with comics, character animation, motion design, storyboarding, social media content creation, digital advertising, print and signage, video editing, 3d modelling and much more.

WHAT DOES SHE LIKE TO DO?

I'm is a serial-hobbyist, I love to learn new skills and crafts and have a house full of gadgets and tools because of it.

I love drawing while listening to music or watching one of my TV shows. When I needs a break from working on creative projects I enjoy playing video games on my computer, I'm particularly fond of RPGs.

Having an insatiable sweet tooth has also made me an avid baker - I'm not a bad friend to have when your birthday is coming up.

HOW DO YOU EVEN SAY 'MARILENA'?

However you like really.

If you’re really curious though it’s ‘Mah-ree-lee-nah’, now say it a bit quicker and you’ve probably got it right