Beautiful inkings of nature form the basis of Emma’s beautiful brand. Beetles, moths and fabulous deep sea creatures feature across wallcoverings, fabrics and a selection of homewares. Detailed patterns, vivid colour and texture are found throughout Emma’s work. One of my favourites is Cicadas Reflection, the detail is just beautiful, but you should definitely have a look at the Deep Sea Creature Wallpaper too; it’s such fun. I met Emma at Design Week last year and loved seeing her collections. Here she tells me more about her design studio…
What was the main driver behind setting up your design studio?
I have always wanted to work as an artist but never had the confidence. When my daughter was born
I decided to use the time off work to hone my art skills and it all went from there.
What do you love most about your work?
I love the whole process! I enjoy the repetition of stippling tiny dots but I also love using coloured
inks and watercolours to bring my creatures to life.
Where do you find your inspiration?
In my garden, in gardens I walk past, in old books, field guides, garden centres, anywhere nature has
started to take over a little bit.
Describe your work/style in 3 words?
Colourful, intriguing, maximalist.
Where’s your favourite place to work?
I love the solitude and calming atmosphere of working in my garden studio. I use a different part of
my brain for artwork than for anything else and time always goes very quickly when I’m drawing or
painting.
Do you ever suffer from “creative block” and if so, how do you deal with it?
No! I suffer from too little time to get my ideas out. I do sometimes struggle when a design is coming
together and I’m arranging composition or picking background colours. I take a break and come back
to it with fresh eyes.
What do you think are going to be the next trends in your field?
I am terrible at keeping up with trends! I hope to see more of wallpapered ceilings so that’s one to
keep looking out for…
What are you the most proud of?
The way my artwork has developed with practice and determination. I would describe myself as self-
taught so it’s been an interesting journey so far.
What’s next for your studio?
Lots of new products, designs and collaborations!
See all of Emma’s collections online at www.wilfulink.com and follow her on Instagram @wilfulink to see what’s she’s currently working on.
