About me

I’m Emma Carpendale, an illustrator and artist based in rural Northamptonshire, UK, whose work is inspired by the quiet magic of nature and the power of storytelling to bring us closer to the world around us.

I create to express myself and to explore the ideas that matter most to me, often guided by curiosity and a desire to look more closely. Drawing and painting help me slow down, notice the small details, and connect more deeply with the subjects that fascinate me. For me, art is a way of paying attention, a way to hold onto fleeting moments and spark a sense of wonder.

The natural world is at the heart of everything I do. Its complexity, diversity, and quiet beauty reveal endless stories of resilience, hope and subtle drama. I’m especially drawn to the lives of unassuming creatures and hidden habitats, the weird and wonderful lives quietly unfolding just beyond our attention. My aim is not just to capture how nature looks, but how it feels: the stillness, the joy of discovery, and the awe that comes from truly noticing.

I’m a passionate sketchbook-keeper and collector of all things curious, and I draw on these personal archives to inform my illustrations. I’m also deeply committed to children’s books and literacy, and work with a charity to help bring inspiring author visits and book events to local schools.

Alongside my illustration work, I run The Creative Flock,  a warm and welcoming creative membership where artists and makers come together to explore seasonal themes through live drawing sessions, carefully curated resources, and supportive conversations. It’s a space designed to nurture creativity and connect like-minded people through shared inspiration.

When I’m not at my desk, you’ll likely find me wandering the countryside with a sketchbook and binoculars in hand, pausing to sketch, stopping to watch birds, photograph tree bark, or marvel at moss.

I’m currently open for commissions and enquires about art sales. To get in touch, pease contact me using the contact form or email: contact@emmacarpendale.co.uk