December Artist of the month: Shellsherree

While browsing Etsy one day for some paintings of Paris, I came across a gem. Shellsherree! Each image is so charming, and so European. I chose her for the Artist of the month of December! Here is a little interview with the Artist;

{Original ShellSherree illustration of the iconic Tour d'Argent restaurant in Paris, dressed in black and white for an extra touch of Paris chic and Je Ne Sais Quoi }

What inspires you?


I'm a bit of a homebody, so browsing interior decor/fashion/lifestyle/travel books, magazines and blogs is my way of getting out and about, and a key source of inspiration. And animals make my heart sing ~ anywhere, anytime.

{Original ShellSherree illustration. Nothing could hold a candle to the whimsical Venice street lamps with their pink glass. Maybe she was looking at things through rose-coloured glasses..}

What is your technique?

Pen/ink drawing with watercolour painting on cotton rag paper.

{Original ShellSherree illustration of some French macarons. Lovely for sweet toothed Paris lovers.}

How is your art different from other artists?

I don't really stop to think about how my work might be different. I love seeing what other artists are doing but try not to focus on it, otherwise I tend to start doubting myself.

{Original miniature by Shell Sherree, of serene and majestic stone lions in Venice, standing guard while watching the canal below.}

Can you take me step by step through a piece?

Mostly I work from photos that appeal to me, adding or changing details, characters and/or animals depending on my mood/inspiration or the specifications of a commission. When I sit down to work, I'll browse through my inspiration folders {unless I already have something in mind}. Whatever leaps out at me the most at that particular time becomes my starting point.

{Signed print of an original Shell Sherree illustration. Whoever said black cats are bad luck was never graced with the presence of one.}

Why do you do your art?

I draw and paint because I love it. Once I've started a piece, time vanishes and I'm absorbed and lost in this little world I'm creating.

{Signed print of original ShellSherree illustration. A beautiful print for animal lovers and those with daydreams of Paris apartments}

Why do you do this particular kind of art (or use this particular technique)?

I've had some fun drawing with pastels and painting with acrylics over the years, but I love ink and watercolour most of all. I don't intentionally draw whimsically ~ it's just the way it is, and I'm glad for that. There are enough intense and troubling things in the world already; I'm happy to create on the lighter side of life. I treasure the drawing process, and I love the transparency, immediacy and delicacy of watercolours. {As an added bonus, they happen to be beautifully neat and tidy to paint with. I'm not a great 'messer'!}

 

You can purchase Shell Sherree's beautiful paintings here!