Floral Tribute 

Her art has adorned the walls of many homes, while her designs have been adopted by brands such as Zara, Anthropology, ASOS, M&S and Mango. Prestige Homes finds out more... 

What was your route into textiles?

I was always drawn to art, constantly creating patterns on anything I could find. This passion led me to the National College of Art and Design in Dublin. Initially, I planned to specialise in visual communication, but after a foundation module, I realised it wasn’t right for me. I then tried a printed textile design module, which opened up an entirely new and exciting world. Captivated by the endless fabric design possibilities, I decided to shift my focus and pursue a BA in textile design instead. 

After completing my studies, I showcased my work at New Designers in London, which led to my first job at a textile design studio in the city. I spent many fulfilling years creating textile designs for a range of clients from high street brands to luxury fashion houses. 

My journey in textile design has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to blend my love for art and design with a career that brings creativity to life in the fashion and textile world. 

Do you have a favourite medium? 

Yes, gouache is my favourite medium at the moment - it has a unique combination of opacity and fluidity, which enables me to capture the subtle nuances of flowers, from the soft gradations of colour in petals to the fine, elegant lines of their stems and leaves. 

I especially enjoy working with gouache on good quality 300gsm paper. The weight and texture of this paper provide the perfect surface for the paint, allowing me to build up layers of colour without worrying about the paper buckling or losing its integrity. This is really important when I’m painting florals, as it allows me to maintain the precision and detail that make these subjects so captivating.

What inspires you? 

As an artist and designer, I’m deeply inspired by the natural world, particularly florals, leaves and foliage. I’ve been painting flowers since I could first hold a paintbrush, and they have always been my go-to imagery. There’s something about the texture and intricate details found within flowers and plants, their vibrant colours, the organic, twisting shapes of their stems, and the way each layer of foliage weaves together, that has always captivated me.

In my textile work, this passion for nature becomes even more pronounced. I find immense excitement in the release of seasonal catwalk collections, eagerly anticipating which designers have created the most stunning floral prints. There’s a thrill in discovering how others interpret and bring to life the beauty of flowers in their designs. 

Similarly, stumbling upon a rare, old botanical book in a charity shop, filled with rich floral references, is a true delight for me. These moments of discovery and inspiration fuel my creativity, driving me to explore and celebrate the endless beauty of nature in my work.

What do you think art brings to someone’s home? 

I believe art brings everything to a home. Without it, a space can feel like a soulless hotel, lacking warmth and character. Art infuses a home with personality and creativity, making it a true reflection of the people who live there, turning a house into a home. I’m always drawn to homes where the walls are adorned with an eclectic mix of art, whether it’s a collection that covers every inch or just a few carefully curated pieces. It speaks to me more than any fancy, designer wallpaper (which I also love!), it gives me a real insight into what the homeowner really likes and dislikes. 

Do you think Surrey has a lot to offer those interested in working in art?

Farnham, where I live, is a particularly vibrant hub for creativity. Recognised as a World Craft Town, it is a place where the arts are deeply woven into the fabric of the community. The town’s rich history of craftsmanship is celebrated through various initiatives and institutions that support and promote the arts.

One of the key cultural centres is Farnham Maltings, a lovely and lively venue that hosts regular markets, craft workshops and events, providing a space for artists and makers to showcase their work and connect with the community. 

The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) which is also based there adds to the town’s dynamic and artistic atmosphere. There’s an ‘arty buzz’ to Farnham, fostering innovation and creativity that permeates the local culture. 

The Surrey Open Studios is another highlight of the local scene. I participated in the event last summer - It was a fantastic experience, and I’m already planning to take part again in June 2025, where I look forward to unveiling some new artwork.

Living in Farnham and being part of Surrey’s thriving art community is truly inspiring. The area’s dedication to fostering creativity, along with its rich cultural offerings, makes it an ideal place for anyone passionate about pursuing a career or hobby in the arts.

To find out more about Eimear’s work, visit eimearnicholls.com