We interviewed artist Libby Bell about her career and creative process, and how she came to paint the print for our Filigree Floral scarf.
Q: Where do you draw your inspiration?
A: Perfect flowers and beautiful gardens, tiny insects and colorful birds, and dreamy homes and interiors. I’m endlessly inspired by the work of Giuseppe Castiglione and Philip Reinagle, as well as the 18th- and 19th-century British landscape artists, and a few current Instagram artists too!
Q: What would you like us to know about your creative process?
A: It differs from project to project, but one thing that remains a constant is the promise I made to myself after completing my Fine Art degree: I was going to spend the rest of my life painting the most beautiful things I could think of. I always try to balance artistic accuracy with creative license and the beautification of my subject and so, keeping that in mind, I check my painting all the time to make sure I am creating something that I will love and that my client will adore.
Q: How did you get your start in this field?
A: I come from a family of artists and so naturally was gifted art materials when I was very young. I have been painting and drawing ever since. I became a full-time artist in 2015, and turning my passion into my career has been the most exciting and fulfilling journey. I get excited to paint every single day, and though I’ll never have time to painting everything I want to, I’m still going to try!
Q: How would you describe your signature style?
A: Exquisite colors and intricate detail guide my subject choices and the finished look of the final artwork. The more detailed required in a painting, the better.
Shop Filigree Floral Scarf 140, $455
Q: What is your favorite detail of the Filigree Floral scarf?
A: I loved painting the stunning Samuel & Sons trims—they were something new for me but so satisfying to illustrate—but I think the little pair of garden birds bring warmth and character to the design. I love to see them perched in the corners.
Q: What was it like working with Sarah on this project?
A: After I received a message from Sarah, she called me herself and it was so lovely to chat to her. It’s evident Sarah is an artist herself because she gave the perfect amount of inspiration and information while giving me the freedom to create my own design in line with the elegant style of the brand.
