We are thrilled to feature Hannah Watts in our online gallery, and are captivated by her vibrant work. A collector of textiles and paper, Hannah’s colourful collages are truly unique, with each artwork thoughtfully crafted from found paper, cuttings and prints, all inspired by her travels. Join us for a quick catch up, as we celebrate new additions to the collection, available now on our website.
Growing up in Hampshire with a passion for art and design, Hannah studied at Edinburgh College of Art, The Florence Academy, and Shillington College of Graphic Design. Like Birdie, she’s an avid traveller, drawing inspiration from her adventures. With a keen eye for colour and aesthetics, her charismatic designs are infused with tropical nature, bold patterns, and a desire to stand out.
Read on for our Q&A with the talented artist and feel inspired!
Where did your career as an artist begin?
I started out making my first collection of collages back in 2019. Since then I have developed my technique to focus on more intricate compositions, always sourcing my inspiration from the tropics and the colours and patterns within nature.
What is your favourite season of the year?
In England it has to be summer, but I also love winter, as it means I get to go back to South Africa (where it is their summer!)
Who or what inspires you in your work?
I aim to create exaggerated versions of natural elements, particularly the plants and flowers within our landscape. I am very inspired by the African landscape, culture and craft which I like to explore within my work.
If you could have a superpower what would it be and why?
To be able to teleport! There are so many places I would like to visit, and travelling is my main source of inspiration for my work, so it would be great to go anywhere I like so easily and quickly!
What's the most important lesson you've learned throughout your artistic career so far?
To keep inspired and don’t let yourself burn out. I have found that as an artist you need to trust your instinct - if you start creating work which you think others will like and not what works for you then as a result the work will look tired and uninspiring. You have to love what you do to create results.
As an interiors brand, we'd love to know about your own interior style?
I love to collect objects from countries I’ve visited, and antique markets. I love objects which can tell a story and also resemble a part of your personality. I love the mismatch effect this creates in the home, but each piece works alongside each other to portray an individual style and aesthetic.
Do you have a favourite holiday location or a place you love to travel around?
I am very lucky to have travelled to Cape Town numerous times throughout my life, and now have family there. It has become a home away from home, and I will always treasure my time there.
My art and designs are largely inspired by the vibrancy of the city. The thing that captivates me the most is the energy of the place itself - not just the people, but the colours, sounds and the dramatic scenery of the landscape.
What is your favourite piece from our latest collection?
I love the Suzanis that Birdie sources! They were the inspiration for my latest collage collection, and I love how they are all intricately hand woven using different colours and motifs.
If you would like to follow Hannah for updates on her travels, her latest creations or what she gets up to from day to day, then check out her instagram here!
Don’t forget to check out Hannah’s stunning pieces in The Gallery, and the other fantastic artists we represent!