Alison Hullyer
Alison Hullyer is a printmaker working from her garden studio in Milton, just north of Cambridge. Since graduating in 1990 from Northumbria University with a degree in Graphic Design and Illustration, she has worked full time as a professional artist.
A long-standing member of Cambridge Open Studios and recently elected member of Cambridge Drawing Society, Alison often exhibits her work in galleries across the UK. Following a successful career as a freelance illustrator - during which she designed hundreds of greeting cards, wrapping papers, and advent calendars for publishers - she launched her own independent product range. Today, she supplies her collection of cards, coasters, and tea towels to shops, galleries, and the National Trust.
Artist Statement
My work is deeply rooted in nature and experiencing the minutiae of the changing seasons on my daily dog walks. I use a combination of observational drawings, photographs and my imagination to produce pared-back compositions.
I specialise in drypoint, collograph, and carborundum printmaking, frequently inking à la poupée or hand finishing pieces with watercolour or metal leaf. My drypoints often have sparse white backgrounds which have been likened to serene Japanese woodblock compositions.
More recently I've been using recycled materials such as juice Tetrapak cartons to make the plates. This process introduces delightful unpredictable tones, creases and textures into the finished prints.
The subject matters that fascinate me most include birds, plants, trees, pebbles, coastal views and the Fen landscape.
While printmaking is my primary focus, I also love to create colourful oil paintings on plywood panels.