OLIVIA ELSEY
ILLUSTRATION
Hi! I'm Olivia
I'm an architectural illustrator and watercolourist, born in West Yorkshire and now living in Norwich, and I paint a lot of bricks!
Ten years spent studying and working in architecture opened up a love for illustrating our favourite places. It started with a celebration of local heritage shopfronts, and has since led me to reimagining all sorts of wonderful places, from homes and gardens to wedding venues and stately manors.
I'm based in the UK but ship worldwide, having sent paintings everywhere from just down the road here in Norwich to the other side of the planet.
Alongside my Custom Watercolour House Portraits work, I'm passionate about sharing what I do online, through short and long form tutorials, because I want watercolour painting to feel accessible to anyone starting out at home. That's also where my Watercolour Colouring Pages come in. Each one is curated by me, drawing on six years of refining the craft, so beginners can skip the blank page nerves and jump straight into painting.
Every place is different, and every home is different too, in its physical style and in the memories it holds. A house portrait captures the warmth and personality of what it means to be a home, making it one of the most special and one of a kind gifts you could give.
Thinking of commissioning a house or building portrait of your own? Get in touch! I'm happy to answer any questions, queries or concerns, and to share my recommendations on any ideas you have.
Thanks so much!
Liv x
Previous Custom Watercolour House Portraits
A small selection of my work from the last few years. You can find more up-to-date progress and behind-the-scenes studio work over on my social media channels!
Little Extras for your Desk
Washi tape, stickers, notepads and art prints, all inspired by the buildings and places I love to paint. A small way to bring a bit of heritage architecture and watercolour into your everyday, whether that's decorating a card, filling in a notepad, or picking out a print for your wall.
Washi Tape
Decorative tape featuring my hand-painted illustrations, perfect for journals, cards and gift wrapping.
Sticker Packs
A collection of my favourite illustrations, ready to be curated into your very own watercolour high street!
Notepads
Specially designed Everyday notepads with a little watercolour whimsy.
Art Prints
Prints of original watercolour paintings, ready to frame and hang on your wall.
Follow along for all the behind-the-scenes excitement!
LAUREN, CT
"Olivia did a fantastic job creating a portrait of my childhood home! She was very responsive and checked in at different points to make sure that it came out exactly how I wanted it to look. I'm so happy with how it turned out and my mom loved the gift!"
LAURA, UK
"Olivia painted such a beautiful photo of our home, we will cherish it forever as it was our first home, we had our son here and as we move on to our next adventure it’s the perfect memory to look back on. Thank you liv!"
I'd love to hear from you!
Got some questions about working together, or just fancy saying hello? Please complete the contact form below!