People often ask me where my business name came from. A lot of artists just use their name. I often think The Peacock & The Printmaker sounds like a fairytale - in fact one of my friends wants me to write a children’s story with that name. Maybe one day but for now I’m far too busy enjoying getting my hands covered in ink.

How it All Started…

When I first decided to put my artwork on Instagram I was terrified - it was only a hobby after all. I was terrified of people’s opinions and of what to say. I had no clue about photographing my work and it certainly wasn't meant to be a business yet.

For the sake of setting up an account I chose the handle heatherdoesprints. It was very Ronseal but that’s me really. People asked about buying my prints so I set up an Etsy shop in the same name.

Towards the end of 2023, I was working away on a new print and now it’s time to tell you the story of how it came to life.

Tumbling is a celebration of the wild waves of the North Sea. I went to stay in Beadnell and we were greeted with Storm Babet. Some people may see this as a time to hide away and stay cosy but I’m not one of those people. Instead I collected my sketchbook and watercolours and headed out to explore.

In this 2 hour session, Michaela and her hens created a series of Lino prints for both the bride to be and themselves to take home and turn into a gallery wall.

See photos of the workshop and read about how the workshop went and what the hens thought of it.