Hollie Childe
Watercolour, Character, and the Spirit of the Countryside
Watercolour artist Hollie will be exhibiting as part of our Spring Exhibition 2027. Working from her studio in the Shropshire countryside, her practice is grounded in a deep and enduring connection to animals and the natural world. Inspired by long walks through fields and quiet observation of wildlife, Hollie captures the individuality and charm of her subjects, translating fleeting moments into expressive, characterful paintings. Her work celebrates not only the appearance of animals, but the personality and presence that make each one distinct.
Central to Hollie’s practice is a sensitivity to observation and memory. Working primarily in watercolour, she embraces the fluidity and unpredictability of the medium, allowing each piece to evolve through a balance of control and spontaneity. Subtle details, gentle textures, and soft colour palettes are combined with a sense of playfulness, resulting in works that feel both intimate and full of life. Whether depicting a curious hare or a watchful fox, her paintings invite a quiet connection between viewer and subject.
Hollie studied Fine Art and Design through to university, graduating from Lancaster University with a First Class degree in Fine Art. Following her studies, she developed her practice alongside her work in Manchester, before making the decision to pursue painting full time. Since then, she has exhibited widely at events including the Great Yorkshire Show, Royal Three Counties Show, and Royal Cheshire Show, building a strong and loyal following for her distinctive animal portraits.
Returning to Shropshire in recent years has brought a renewed sense of inspiration to her work. Now balancing her artistic practice with family life, Hollie’s paintings reflect a softer, more contemplative pace—shaped by time spent outdoors, close observation, and an appreciation for the small, often unnoticed details of rural life.
The Spring Exhibition 2027 will present a carefully curated selection of Hollie’s work, offering audiences an opportunity to experience the warmth, character, and quiet storytelling at the heart of her practice. Through fluid brushwork and thoughtful composition, her paintings celebrate the enduring connection between artist, animal, and landscape.
