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The Illustrarium

Susie Batsford | Fine Artist | The Illustrarium
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Handpainted folk floral design in rich reds and greens with the text "Welcome to my Blog," created by Susie Batsford of The Illustrarium.

"Here’s my floral collograph print paired with antique keys and a charming tea cup. This combination of vintage treasures and floral elements highlights the timeless connection between nature and craftsmanship."

February's Relief Printing of Blue Flowers

February 27, 2016

"Pressed floral collograph print, surrounded by antique floral teacup, organic, botanical elements and gem stones. The combination of natural textures and printed design creates a serene, nature-inspired atmosphere."

"Here’s a closer look at my collograph print on paper, with a scene of vintage items that inspire me. I love surrounding my work with objects that carry a sense of history and beauty, from antique tea cups to colorful gemstones."

"This is the first step in my collograph print process—my print master set on the press, ready to transfer the intricate design onto paper. It’s always exciting to see my artwork come to life through the printing press."

Hello my friends, I thought today I'd share my results of the wonderful collagraph printing workshop I did at college earlier in the month.  For those who know not, a collagraph is a little like a collage which you then make prints from.  I made the collagraph plates by collecting plant matter from the garden.  Then after pressing it for several days I assembled two plates on cardboard using strong pva glue.  I then painted the whole thing white using acrylic gesso, this is so you can see where you've put the ink when you ink it up in the print room.  Then I varnished each plate using acrylic matt medium and voila, once dry they were ready for printing.  The top picture shows one of the plates on the printing press and below this are my prints.  I had so much fun, I recommend it if you get the chance!

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In Antiques, Collography, Fine Art, Flowers, Garden, Gemstones, Illustration Degree, Inspiration, Printing, Vintage

"Here’s the final piece in my anthropomorphic Tudor series—the regal lion in grand Tudor clothing. Painted with watercolours, this majestic lion exudes confidence and strength, capturing the essence of royal elegance."

Anthropomorphic Watercolour Paintings completed...

January 11, 2016

Lord Lionheart is completed, he was challenging and there was a moment that I thought I would have to start again, but nevertheless he was fun to do.  I am falling more in love with watercolours the more I paint with them, it's such a learning curve but I just love the magic that happens when they're left to do their own thing.  All in all it's been a super busy week, but my three paintings for Thursday's assessment are completed... phew!  I have also included a little montage of my sketches some of which may become future final pieces, so watch this space!

In African Animals, Animals in Clothes, Anthropomorphic, Drawings, Fine Art, Illustration, Illustration Degree, Paintings, Sketchbook, Watercolour Painting

"A glimpse into my creative process! This work-in-progress shows the development of my anthropomorphic lion in Tudor clothing. Painted with watercolours and pencils, I love building up layers to bring his majestic personality to life."

A well dressed Lion

January 7, 2016

Still got a long way to go but slowly it's coming together.

In African Animals, Animals in Clothes, Anthropomorphic, Fine Art, Illustration, Illustration Degree, Paintings, Watercolour Painting, Work in Progress

Animal in Clothes Tudor

The African Lion in Tudor Clothing is emerging...

January 7, 2016

Just one week until my college assessment, have just begun my third final piece and am finding it particularly challenging! Fingers crossed I can pull it off, just need to keep focused and keep going...

In African Animals, Animals in Clothes, Anthropomorphic, Drawings, Fine Art, Illustration, Illustration Degree, Work in Progress

"This snapshot of my workspace offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of my roaring anthropomorphic leopard in Tudor-style armour. The image highlights my paint palette and the carefully mixed colours that bring this bold and regal character to life. A true blend of whimsy and historical inspiration!"

African Leopard in Historical Armour

January 5, 2016

Having already done a little watercolour sketch and chosen my colour palette, I've begun work on the anthropomorphic Leopard.

In African Animals, Animals in Clothes, Anthropomorphic, Fine Art, Illustration, Illustration Degree, Paintings, Watercolour Painting, Work in Progress

"This photo captures my creative process behind an anthropomorphic giraffe in Tudor clothing. It shows the initial painted sketch with carefully selected color swatches, alongside the working version of the final piece. Each element reflects the rich details and whimsical charm that define my artwork."

There's No Time Like The Present.

January 3, 2016

I've been procrastinating for months on beginning my blog, but today I read something that resonated with me, by Eckhart Tolle: "Always say 'Yes' to the present moment... surrender to what is.  Say 'Yes' and see what happens...".

It seems as though where I am now is as good a place as any to start, so here is what I am currently working on, an anthropomorphic giraffe in Tudor costume.  Combining three of my great passions; history, nature and art...

In African Animals, Animals in Clothes, Anthropomorphic, Fine Art, Illustration Degree, Paintings, Watercolour Painting, Work in Progress
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     Copyright © 2026 Susie Batsford. Please do not reuse any images without the artist’s written consent.  All rights reserved.