Artwork by Elaine Mather

Born and living in Blackburn, Elaine Mather enjoyed successful career working in textile design for some of the top UK & American textile companies for many years before becoming a fulltime artist.

History and Background

Working as a textile designer, Elaine Mather gained a great insight into the use of colour and texture before leaving her role to pursue a career as a full-time artist.

In August 2015, Elaine was selected from over 400 applicants to take part in our Summer Exhibition, a showcase of emerging visual talents follow her application to the IN:SIGHT campaign. Out of the 20 shortlisted artists, Elaine proved extremely popular with her bold, striking depictions of majestic trees making a big impact. Spring 2016 sees the release of her debut collection of limited edition art.

Ideas and Inspirations

She has long admired the work of Vincent Van Gogh, and the bold use of vibrant colours he is known for, trying to emulate them in her own work. She says: “On occasions I believe him like me to have a great respect for trees and the way they punctuate and protect our landscape.”

Elaine’s work is inspired by trees in nature, and she loves nothing more than spending time walking, sketching and photographing in the UK and European countryside, particularly the Italian Dolomites. Her husband is an international mountain guide who helped introduce her to the stunning landscapes which inspires her paintings.

She says: “What I get from painting is the chance to look at the world around me; be aware of the turning of the seasons and notice the incredible colours of nature. With landscapes I feel it is not so much an idea, but an ability to compliment what is already there.

Nature is the most beautiful thing in the world, yet we are so quick to destroy it. The vibrant colours I use in my trees make them much less likely to be passed over or ignored.”