About Me

I am Emily, an illustrator specialising in hand-drawn works using pen and ink. My illustrations are inspired by the changing seasons and the beautiful landscapes, alongside my passions for food growing, cycling, and swimming.

I've always loved to draw. At a very young age I remember drawing (ginger) cats and making collage birthday cards. At secondary school I experimented with acrylic and texture. Then at a later stage I found just sketching with a pen and a small book was a calming break from busy adult life.

Sketching still remains a calming activity for me as I carry a small sketch book around with me just in case the opportunity arises - a view from inside a coffee shop, an interesting building, a walk up a hill. Drawing allows me to sit still, take in my surroundings, listen to the noises, and notice things around me. The sketch book becomes a bit of a journal, a reminder of the places I've been to and journeys I've had.

In 2021 I tentatively but successfully sold a few of my first greeting cards from my designs, at my local café in Abbeyhill, Edinburgh. Encouraged, I continued and used a local printer for my designs and started taking part at weekend markets and my first art festival, the Colony of Artists in September 2022. Sustainability still remains at the heart of my practice; I collaborate with local, independent printers and prioritise recycled materials, minimising plastic in my packaging and displays.

In August 2024 I quit my day job and decided to become a full time freelance Illustrator. From business development, website creation and accounting I've already learnt so much and met a lot of supportive people along the way. I primarily work with pen, Pro-marker pens, crayon and recently I have been experimenting with gouache paints.

When I'm not sketching or riding my bike I enjoy gardening. I volunteer at a local community allotment and also tend to my own plot. I really appreciate food growing, eating seasonally and understanding more about the nature around us.

I'm currently working on my first children's picture book as well as taking part in weekend markets across the UK. My work is available at several shops, please check my Stocklist tab for more information. If you are interested in bespoke pieces and commissions please take a look at my Commissions tab for examples and get in touch with any queries or questions.
Many thanks, Emily