Having graduated from UCA Maidstone with BA Hons Illustration in 2007, Emma Colbert began working on portrait commissions and producing her own series of wildlife pastel paintings. She is now a leading animal portrait artist in the UK. Endorsed by Unison Soft Colour Pastels, she has created colour selections of soft pastels for them designed specifically for painting animals.
After discovering pastel at a young age, Emma knew this was the medium in which she wanted to develop. An equal passion for animals has fuelled a love of painting them. Using pastels in a painterly way Emma creates highly detailed, vibrant work inspired by the beauty of nature.
Wanting to spend more time in nature, Emma is leaving on a European tour in 2016 in the campervan she has been living in while touring around Ireland in 2015. This has really opened up the opportunity to be at one with nature, rising at dawn to photograph the mammals she paints, and spending long days painting in her studio set up in the back of the camper.
Emma has recently been awarded the 'Reader's Choice' award from Artists & Illustrators Artist of the Year exhibition. Her work continues to grow in popularity with collectors worldwide. As a member of the Pastel Society of Ireland Emma exhibits regularly in groups and throughout many galleries in the UK.
Emma says...
"I have always loved painting animals in pastel. I have pushed myself to get better at landscapes, interiors, water, skies, sunlight, all the things that make paintings interesting. I now find myself taking as much pleasure from painting a windowsill as I would a face.
My favourite subject to paint is definitely my dachshund Brocci. I know her so well, she inspires great ideas and is willing to model for me in return for the odd treat!"
For speed painting videos visit Emma's Youtube Channel
Follow her work on Facebook
Visit her Website for details on commissioning a portrait and limited edition giclee prints
