My Spirit Found Outlet in the Air

Artist – Kim Thompson

Sponsored by: Princes Quay Shopping Centre

Design Description

Inspired by 1930s print design, my piece aims to capture the strength, spirit and fearlessness of Amy Johnson as a female pioneer via symbolism; the Swallow, deceptively small and graceful though one of the UK’s most travelled migrating birds. The White Rose represents both a symbol now widely associated with Johnson’s place of birth and a visual representation of beauty, strength and resilience occurring in nature.

The title comes from a quote by Johnson; ‘Had I been a man I might have explored the poles or climbed Mount Everest, but as it was my spirit found outlet in the air…’

Artist Statement

Kim Thompson is a freelance illustrator based in Manchester. With previous clients including Valentino Parfums, Jigsaw Menswear and BBC Radio 4 Online, Kim loves the challenges of new and diverse creative projects. As part of Liverpool Open Culture’s 2015 Snowflake Trail project last Christmas, Kim designed and decorated a giant fibreglass Snowflake which was situated outside of Lime Street Station.