Ellie Fryer, Eastbourne Artist
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Meet Ellie, a talented Illustrator and Muralist whose creative journey began in the coastal charm of her hometown Eastbourne.
Ellie's unique style takes inspiration from lino and woodcut processes infused with contemporary illustration techniques and vibrant colour palettes. Her creativity draws on historical facts, folklore, local landscapes and a world of both real and imagined creatures. Each stroke of her brush weaves intricate narratives that vividly capture a place in time.
Read below to discover Ellie's deep-rooted love for the community she grew up in and explore the remarkable artwork she's contributed to Sussex. Be sure to take note of her valuable advice for fellow aspiring artists in small towns!
“Growing up in Eastbourne was a peaceful experience, with its quiet surroundings, open spaces and the beautiful seafront. Although there wasn't much cultural excitement during my childhood, my Mum would take me up to London for some bigger experiences than Eastbourne could offer at the time. These trips likely influenced me in some way, sparking a curiosity for art and culture beyond my immediate surroundings. Eastbourne has come a long way since then.
What I truly love about Eastbourne, apart from being a coastal town, is its tight-knit community. Since it's a small town, I ended up knowing everyone, creating a special and close community feeling. This strong sense of togetherness extends to my artistic pursuits, especially my mural work, as people support and cheer for me since I'm part of their community.
On my perfect day in Eastbourne, I love starting at my favourite coffee shop, Docs on Grove Road. Elif and Noray, who run the place, are incredibly kind and caring towards their customers. I then like to take a walk along the seafront and spend some time on the beach which I especially enjoy during summer. My walk often ends up leading me to the Towner Gallery, which has brought so much excitement to Eastbourne's cultural scene. I’ll usually head back to Grove Road or end up on South Street to take a look around the independent shops before going to the pub with friends.
Having worked on various mural projects in Eastbourne, I believe that the strong community support played a significant role in their realisation. The locals are enthusiastic about championing individuals like me who contribute to our shared space, and that has been a fantastic motivation for me.
Looking back on my artistic journey, I must say it's been a gradual and challenging process. I feel fortunate to have encountered supportive people and projects that have shaped my career positively. For other aspiring artists out there, I encourage you to find what you're truly passionate about and connect with like-minded individuals and communities. Being proactive, attending events, applying for projects and seeking opportunities are essential steps, but remember to be kind to yourself, take breaks, and allow things to unfold naturally.”
A Dose of Vitamin Sea: One of Ellie's initial projects involved collaborating with the Eastbourne council to breathe new life into the seafront area, seamlessly integrating it with the existing promenade while staying true to the coastal theme
The Story book Eastbourne: Ellie's involvement in "The Storybook of Eastbourne" brought to life eleven distinct narratives spanning thousands of years. Ellie's illustrations seamlessly accompanied these narratives, enriching the experience and connecting readers to archaeological and historical insights. Notably, she designed the cover and papers, enhancing the storytelling experience.
Starcroft Farm Cabins: Step into the cabin bedroom to be enchanted by Ellie’s wild folklore-inspired creation, offering a glimpse into the imaginative dreams of medieval ancestors. This cabin reimagines the 1066 narrative and its aftermath, painting a feminine perspective of medieval life with vibrant hues, woodland folklore, and a connection to the natural world.
Bird and Blend: Ellie had the privilege of collaborating with Brighton born Bird & Blend Tea Co., a project that involved crafting a unique pattern design for a special series of limited-edition autumnal tea tins.The design endeavour was guided by a thoughtful brief, which included vivid colour and evocative word prompts like "mystical," "bonfire," "magic," and "fireside." These cues formed the cornerstone of Ellie's creative inspiration.
The Rainbow pub: A vibrant exterior brick wall transformed into a colourful masterpiece, adding life to a hidden pub garden space and showcasing the seasonal delights of their garden kitchen.
The Beachy Head Story Exhibition: Ellie's engagement in the Beachy Head project unfolded over seven months in collaboration with Heritage Eastbourne. The murals she crafted adorned the entire building, accompanied by artefacts and written narratives, offering a captivating journey through the expansive downland landscape.
If you would like to enquire about a commission or just to say hello then contact Ellie directly. Ellie_Fryer@hotmail.com Follow @elliefryer www.elliefryerillustration.com
