This month we’re spotlighting independent artist Hannah Ellingwood! We love how her work reflects her passion for the natural world, and how that translates into how her creative business operates. She is working hard to make her small business a success and to make a difference in how people see the beauty of our natural resources - check her out!
For the past five or so years I have been exploring the art of paper cutting. Using a surgical scalpel I hand cut and layer paper to create intricate, colorful images. My subject matter is inspired by New England; wild animals, beautiful landscapes and outdoor spaces that I’m always excited to explore.
I’m drawn to paper cutting because it’s such a versatile medium and I love that I can take a simple sheet of paper and turn it into something complex.
After creating my original artwork I photograph it and make greeting cards and vinyl stickers from the image! I sell online, wholesale to shops and travel to music and art festivals to sell my wares. I’m able to share my passion for wildlife through my artwork and through conversations that my artwork inspires.
While creating art is a solo activity for me, I collaborate in many other ways. The Monadnock region supported me as a young aspiring artist and continues to support me as a full time art business.
I’ve participated in local events- Francestown Labor Day, Antrim Home and Harvest, Hancock’s Hanstock Festival, Keene Earth Day, Peterborough’s Art in the Park, Broke the Affordable Arts Fair...and so many more! I’ve taken classes and used tools at MAXT Makerspace in Peterborough. I’ve hung my art in local venues- up next is Hancock’s Fiddleheads Café in May! I work with local businesses, such as designing a 50th anniversary logo for the Harris Center, and creating a cover for Peterborough’s Monadnock Underground Magazine. I also wholesale stickers and greeting cards to local shops, including the Harrisville General Store and Toadstool Bookshop.
Even though I’m technically a one-person business, I’m not alone in making it possible. The relationships with other makers, business owners, and event coordinators hold our region together. It’s important to have community spaces where we can meet, connect and share ideas with each other. I’m always looking for new ways to collaborate!
If you would like to see more of my work, you can find it here:
https://www.instagram.com/hannahellingwood/
