Meet North Yorkshire Fine Artist Lottie McAteer
North Yorkshire-based fine artist Lottie McAteer illustrates animal and pet portraits, as well as wildlife paintings and wedding stationery
Lottie has been into crafting for as long as she can remember, which she says was encouraged a lot by birthday and Christmas presents of watercolour sets and pads. ‘I think this set me off,’ she says.
Her illustrations begin as hand-drawn outlines. ‘Then [I] paint with a small brush and gouache paint,’ she explains. ‘It’s very similar to watercolour paint but with an acrylic thickness.’ Her inspiration comes from her surroundings, wildlife and nature. ‘We had three dogs and pet pigs when I was around eight years old, which is where I’d spend a lot of my spare time,’ she recalls. ‘I then started to draw them; this headed in the direction of dogs and horses, which are my most popular commissions.
‘I will work on commissions all day, whether it be animals, house portraits or bespoke wedding invitations. In between this time I always fit in a long dog walk with our labrador, Tasha, and love Reformer Pilates with a bit of Hyrox too.’
Lottie is currently working towards expanding the wedding illustration side of her business. ‘Here I incorporate my love for nature (wedding flowers), house painting (church/venue illustrations), and animal portraits,’ she says. ‘As many of my clients stem from pet portraits, they often ask for their beloved to be included too!’
Is there an item you couldn’t live without?
Tony's Chocolonely… and pasta.
Is there a local gallery you love?
The Big Art Show, North Yorkshire, which is biannual and supports the Yorkshire Children’s Charity.
Is there an artist who inspires you?
Polly Fern, a very different style, but her whippet-themed work and ceramics are amazing – this is the breed I’d love next.
Could you pick a favourite piece of work you've created?
One For Arthur, Grand National Winner in 2017.
What advice would you give budding artists?
Head in the direction that inspires you. You must love what you do.
Where's your happy place in Yorkshire?
Sandsend Beach.
