Meet the Illustrator of This Class Can Save the Planet

Kristen Brittain is an illustrator, designer, and letter artist. Her motto is to “create work that engages, sparks joy, and inspires positive impact.”

She created the logo for Be a Good Human Co as well as the main poster art. Plus, she’s the illustrator behind the first Be a Good Human book, This Class Can Save the Planet.

Kristen says her first love is Illustration, but she also has a passion for art direction, branding identity, lettering, graphic design, and marketing. (She even has a master’s degree in marketing.) Right now, Kristen is living in Boston, but she’s originally from Florida. You can learn more about her on her website or follow her work on Instagram. Check out the Q&A with Kristen below.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN ILLUSTRATION?

I’ve loved art and drawing since I was a kid, and I always wanted to grow up to do something creative. I started my career in more traditional graphic design, and really enjoyed it, but wanted to push my creativity further. At first I really just worked on illustrations outside of work as more of a hobby. Through freelancing, I was able to gain more experience in illustration, and now, I love to bring it into all the projects I can!

THEN HOW DID YOU START DOING HAND LETTERING?

I have always looked up to artists like Jessica Hische and Jon Contino for the ways they use hand lettering with such versatility. It’s really fun to see how they work it into a brand, book, or product. I love the way it adds a real hand-crafted, human look to a project and have always aimed to replicate that feel in my work.

DO YOU HAVE ARTISTS OR ILLUSTRATORS WHO INSPIRE YOU?

SO many! I draw a lot of inspiration from Mary Kate McDevitt, Monique Amiee, and Lindsey Wright to name a few. I’ve always loved how fun their styles are, and how much character they add to every piece of work.

FOR THE ANIMAL LOVERS OUT THERE, DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS?

I have a really sweet and playful tuxedo cat, Stella, who is my pride and joy! I’m a big animal person, as soon as I upgrade my living situation to include more space and a yard, I definitely have plans to get her a friend (thinking dog next!).

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT ILLUSTRATING?

I love exploring new places! Whether it’s a new restaurant, a small shop in town, or a new city I’m traveling to, I really enjoy experiences and getting out of the house. When I am home, I’m big on board games and bingeing the latest popular Netflix series (Schitt’s Creek anyone?).

HOW DO YOU TRY TO LIVE YOUR LIFE IN A GOOD HUMAN WAY?

Generally, I really try to approach others with empathy, kindness, and compassion. When I can, I try to use my time and talents to benefit the greater community, and help a cause I’m really passionate about! Whether it’s donating a piece of artwork for a fundraiser, or volunteering time with Friendshipworks, I find a lot of joy in the opportunities to help where I can.