THE MAGAZINE 
Could you introduce yourself in a few words?
My name is Lucie, I’m mostly known as Lulu la Nantaise. “La Nantaise” because I studied in Nantes, and “Lulu” in reference to the film Les Tontons flingueurs, in which Lulu la Nantaise is mentioned.
I started out as a freelance graphic designer in 2011, before devoting myself entirely to illustration in 2018, when I was accompanied by Virginie, my agent. At that point, I made the choice to stop everything and concentrate fully on drawing.
What I love most about my job is the variety of projects: packaging, book covers, brand collaborations, press illustration… No two projects are alike, and each one is a new playground.
What made you want to take part in this project?
I already admired the work of other illustrators who had previously created the cover of the guide. Naturally, the project was very tempting. And the subject was particularly appetizing! Very quickly, I also felt that things would flow naturally with Joséphine (Editor’s note: Editorial Director of Grandes Tables du Monde), and that always makes all the difference.
I wouldn’t have spontaneously dared to associate the world of gastronomy with my vintage graphic universe. Being trusted to bring these two worlds together really touched me. I also designed the lettering, and it was quite joyful to be involved in creating an entire cover from start to finish.
How do you start a project?
Color is always my starting point. It immediately guides the mood and the graphic choices to come. Sometimes I begin with black-and-white sketches, but that’s fairly rare. Most of the time, I quickly lay down a flat block of color: it sets the tone, suggests a style, and opens up a field of possibilities.
What do you think of the final result?
I’m delighted! I like the pink cloth back: it adds a lot of elegance and character to the object.
Did you know about the association before this project?
Yes, particularly through the work of other illustrators. My little dream today would be to return to Provence, where I lived for about ten years, and go for dinner at Oustau de Baumanière in Les Baux-de-Provence. And perhaps see “my” guide lying somewhere there… I have a year to make it happen!
