Light Sleeper Studio

I am Issy Stephens, a Cornwall based queer illustrator, filmmaker and researcher working through my creative practice, Light Sleeper Studio. I explore identity: how it feels, how it takes shape, and why we are so obsessed with its borders.

Working with people, community groups, charities, and businesses, my practice spans multiple mediums, from short films and murals to manifestos and exhibitions, because experience has shown me that different stories demand different outlets – we must let them breathe, or scream new lives of their own. My practice is process-driven, joyful, and full of righteous anger, always intent on creating change.

I have been commissioned by Cornwall 365, disAbility Cornwall, WILD Young Parents, Goldfinch, Ekphriasis, Bristol Institute of Learning and Teaching to create art and writing. I have also delivered talks and workshops at University of Exeter, Falmouth University, Eden Project University Centre and various Equity, Diversity and Inclusion conferences and events. 

Alongside my creative practice, I am currently undertaking a funded PhD in Politics at the University of Exeter. This research focuses on the politics of identity in decision-making spaces, using creative participatory methods to examine how emotions stick to human and non-human objects. My creative practice bleeds into this research, and this research bleeds into my creative practice, more by the day. 

At its core, my work creates space where there is often a squeeze, challenges, and sparks mischief, all for the love of people.

When I’m not working, you can find me in the sea, running around with my little whippet, eating a sweet treat or lapping up a new film at my local independent filmhouse.

Light Sleeper Studio is covered by Professional Indemnity Insurance, Public Liability Insurance and can be employed on a Freelance basis. If you’d like to work together, head on over to the Let’s Collaborate page, I’d love to hear from you.