If there is one thing I have learned from painting live at parties, weddings and corporate events, is that people are curious creatures – and most can’t even draw a stickman, apparently!
Let me offer you a glimpse into the world of live event artistry. In this blog post, I will be addressing 10 most frequently asked questions. From ‘How long does it take?” to “Do you ever mess up?”
So, let’s dive into the creative and slightly crazy world of live event painting.
1. How long does each painting take?
Left: an A5 painting created at the 2024 Miss Jones awards ceremony. I love painting colourful dresses, but they take a little bit longer to do.
Right: Despite the unfortunate rain on the day of this newlyweds’ celebration, the garden of their family home looked stunning, and I managed to capture the beautiful pond that had been created especially for the big day. This painting is A3 size on coloured mount board.
2. Why don’t you paint faces?
I choose not to focus on painting detailed faces (only facial hair and glasses) because in my opinion, it doesn’t necessarily enhance the essence of the painting; it could even detract from it. My aim is to capture a moment, a feeling, something stylised and timeless.
People always comment how they can instantly recognise their friends and family. I focus on subtle mannerisms, postures, and of course, the wonderful outfits. It is ironic, because before I became a live event artist, I was doing a lot of portrait painting! Below are some examples.
3. What materials do you use?
I combine a mixture of gouache, pastel, pencil & pen plus glitter paint if required. I often use coloured mountboard – rather than white watercolour paper – because I love how this instantly provides colour. Permanent white gouache is perfect for painting wedding dresses, because it really makes the white pop on the coloured background. I use white gel pens to draw intricate lace, which is one of my favourite things to do.
In certain historical venues like the V&A, where paint might not be permitted, I adapt by using brush pens and pencils to achieve a similar loose and layered effect.
4. Is this a hobby?
Absolutely not! This is my full-time profession, and I’ve been fortunate enough to work as an artist for nearly 25 years now. I consider myself incredibly lucky. I doubt retirement will ever be on my radar, because why would I want to stop being creative? Witnessing esteemed artists like David Hockney (86) who continues to thrive is incredibly inspiring to me. A lot of artists seem to improve with age.
5. Do you mind if people watch you while you paint?
6. Do people have to pose to be painted?
7. What inspired you to become a live event artist?
I was trained as a textile designer, so I worked as a freelance designer and artist for many years. While raising our young children, I also worked part-time as an art lecturer. It was during a fashion illustration course at Central Saint Martins, taken as part of my professional development, that everything clicked for me. I wanted to go back to drawing and painting and I wanted to paint people in their fabulous outfits.
I’ve always remembered watching artist Kurt Jackson talk about being an artist in residence at Glastonbury Festival many years ago. This really captured my imagination and I always thought ‘one day, I’ll do something like that’.
As a live event artist, I’ve seamlessly woven together all my passions – fashion, textiles, music, people, parties, and, of course, painting.
8. Do you ever worry you might make a mistake?
No, but earlier on in my career I did some silly things. I once used spray mount (a type of glue) instead of fixative to seal my paintings. I keep the spray mount locked away in a cupboard now!
Another time, I forgot to bring my easel, so my assistant quickly dashed to The Works to buy an easel, so the problem was solved, thankfully.
I am comfortable and confident when I paint, because with years of experience I feel very much in control. However, it’s the travelling aspect that can sometimes be challenging. Once, I found myself on the wrong train in Switzerland (not entirely my fault, I must add), and ended up near the Italian border very late at night, miles away from my destination. It was a nightmare, but I managed to make it to the venue in time the next morning. Always the pro!
9. Have you painted many celebrities?
I painted the Queen at Royal Ascot many years ago, but protocol dictates that royals cannot receive gifts, so I gave the painting to Ascot Racecourse. I meet lots of fascinating people wherever I go and to be honest, it’s the outfits I am particularly interested in.
From left to right: Queen Elizabeth II at Royal Ascot 2018, Paul Burrell & husband Graham Cooper at the Savoy, comedian Lee Mack (he is very funny in real life too, I think he simply can’t help himself) and his wife Tara McKillop at Carfest 2023.
10. If you are not working at an event, what type of things do you like to paint?
People! There’s something endlessly fascinating and inspiring about the uniqueness of each individual, so I will never grow tired of that.
I also enjoy creating handmade cards. It’s a therapeutic and relaxing activity for me, free from any pressure. It is very special to send personalised cards to my friends and family and they enjoy and appreciate receiving them.
If you have any burning questions that I haven’t answered yet, feel free to get in touch. I always love hearing from people and receiving feedback.
In case you are wondering about my pricing, you can download my corporate, wedding or party brochure here. I charge £2000 + VAT for an event. I offer different packages and it is also possible to create something more bespoke to suit your needs.
Photo credits:
John Nassari
Becky Harley
Holly Clark
Georgia Nix
