A b o u t

My name is Ellie and I’m an artist based in Leicestershire. Ever since I was little, I’ve always had a passion for art and creativity. My love of it led me to study at Leicester College, where I got my BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design. I then went on to study at De Montfort University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Fine Art.

I have always loved nature so I’m hugely inspired by it. I’m intrigued by the woodlands and the wide varieties of mushrooms, leaves, flowers and plants that are found there. I’m interested in the intricate, small and beautiful formations that often go unnoticed, as well as the peace and wonder of the woodland itself. I also adore wildlife, so birds and woodland animals are an inspiration to me.

Since I was a child, I’ve been drawn to ancient woods, old trees and tales of myth and magic, and the fair folk and their hidden world have always fascinated me. The spirit of nature and quiet woodland magic inspires me; faerie folklore and its deep ties to nature influence the faeries, pixies and sprites I paint and draw. I’ve also always had a love for medieval fantasy and so elves, sorcery and mythical creatures are weaved throughout my art and in the characters I create.

I begin my watercolour paintings initially with a pencil drawing, which I work into with fineliner, and then use the paint to build up the artwork, adding the colour, tone and detail. I also create some paintings on MDF board using water mixable oils. My drawing process is similar to my watercolour one; after starting with a pencil and fineliner, I then build the artwork up with a tonal pencil. Working with textiles, I use the free motion embroidery technique to sew onto water soluble fabric or paper, and I also explore the printmaking technique of linocut. Crochet is another passion of mine, so I design and make my own amigurumi doll characters, creating and writing the patterns for them.