I’m Isabelle. I have always been a creative person who is busy making things. It was always a dream to work for myself but at first, I could not imagine making a living from my art. In 2016, I started posting my paintings on Instagram, and I started receiving illustration requests, and started selling prints. All of this evolved naturally. Now, I feel very lucky to be able to do what I love as a job.

The simple things in life. My motivation to create is drawn from the beauty of life’s subtle moments and everyday occurrences. 

There are many! But among my favourites are Milton Avery, Pierre Boncompain, Hockney, and Matisse.

Summer is my favourite season, which is when these artworks were made. The paintings are themed around the sweetness of summer and food, capturing vibrant colours, textures and emotions associated with the season. From sun-kissed fruits to leisurely picnics, the collection can evoke the warmth and joy of summertime indulgence. 

It stems from finding inspiration in the simple joys of life. I try to capture them on paper or canvas as a memory, and I want my work to give a sense of calm to people who look at it.

What does art mean to you?

I am a very visual person, and I like an environment with aesthetic colour palettes. 

What is the biggest challenge of being an artist?

To keep believing in your own work, and to stay inspired, and find new ideas.

How do you manage a work-life balance as an artist?

As my partner and I work from home, it’s not always easy to separate work and private during the day. There are always little tasks that I want to do in between work, like doing the laundry. Sometimes, there is too much distraction, haha. 

Where do you live/reside?

I live in a small fisherman’s village close to Lisbon, Portugal.

Does your residential place have an impact on your art?

The hues of the ocean, the quaint architecture and breezy greenery often seep into my artworks. 

When is your favourite time of day to create?

Whenever there is most light in my studio.

How do you see your prints in an interior setting?  

Some prints I created are food-inspired and can bring a pop of colour to kitchens. 

What do you like doing when you are not creating? 

I really like running. It lets my thoughts rest for a bit. I also surf and like to go to flea markets and explore new food places in the city. 

What is your current obsession and why? 

Ribbon bows. They are currently everywhere, and they make everything more fun!  

Would you say you are an introvert or an extrovert? 

An introvert.

What are you focusing on right now? 

I am planning new art collections for the coming year.