Inception – Charity Auction for Make 2nds Count

81/55cm Laser cut MDF spray painted dark green. This drawing is mounted directly to the wall leaving a small gap behind which allows for shadows to be cast. The drawing is mounted with small nails on specially designed hanging blocks which are attached to the back of the work.

‘This drawing was a true labour of love, inspired by my commute to work whilst living in London I would travel past an allotment. I loved how each plot had its individual personality. Trying to capture this in my distinct cut-out style was challenging and hugely rewarding. I love how you can see the gardener’s personality without seeing the gardener themselves'

I am inspired by natural and urban landscapes, exploring positive and negative space, and the challenge of turning my subject matter into stylised cut-out drawings. I have an ever-growing fascination in reducing complex scenery down to more simplified lines and block colours.

​All my cut-out works start with pencil and paper as I spend hours drawing from life in my sketchbook. These drawings are then either hand cut from sheet material using a Stanley knife, Jigsaw or plasma cutter; or by using laser technology.

For laser cut drawings, I re-create my pencil drawn compositions on the computer, painstakingly adding detail by hand until I am finally happy. The laser then cuts out the drawing, creating eye catching and intriguing pieces.

My unique wall mounted pieces are hung directly onto the wall where they cast beautiful shadows which vary depending on strength of light, cloud or time of day, a deliberately interactive and living aspect to my art.

Martha has a BA (Hons) Fine Art from Middlesex university and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Art and Design from The Institute of Education. After teaching Art and Design for over ten years in London, she moved to Scotland and set up her studio in Edinburgh. 

She has exhibited at Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, In the Yorkshire Sculpture Park’s ‘Made:Showcase’, with the Society of Scottish Artists and will be exhibiting with the Royal Academy of Scotland Annual Exhibition this year. Martha currently has a large showcase of work at Restoration Yard in Dalkeith Country Park. She has had residencies at Edinburgh Academy and Marchmont House.

Artist | Martha Ellis
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