Meet The Artist: Alice Kellett

This summer we are welcoming new artist Alice Kellett to the Whistlefish family. The Nottingham-based artist has been holidaying in Cornwall since she was a child and loves to recall these fond and excited memories onto canvas.

Alice possesses a remarkable artistic ability to encapsulate the essence of cherished locations and transform them into stunning artworks. Her signature style employs a limited colour palette, resulting in truly distinctive paintings that evoke feelings of nostalgia and embrace a sense of warmth.

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Having graduated from Loughborough University in 2006 with a degree in Fine Art, Alice has honed her skills further within her home studio in Nottingham. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality bring each Cornish landscape painting to life.

Alice's work is adored by collectors across the globe. The universal appeal of her nostalgic coastal scenes and distinctive palette has earned her a devoted following.

Can you talk us through your method of creating a piece of artwork?

I begin by choosing a meaningful location, then look through personal photos to find a strong composition. If I don’t have the perfect angle, I sketch using online references before drawing directly onto the canvas.

Next, I paint the sky, using a white base to build and blend colour quickly. I work from broad grey blocks in the foreground to fine detail using smaller brushes, and finish with fine black linework to highlight and add character.

How do you create the reflection effect in your art?

Acrylic paint dries fast, so I work in concentrated sessions. I start with a thin white base, layer in colour, then use a flat brush to sweep the paint side to side, mimicking water movement for a soft reflection effect.

Do you paint from a photo or memory?

I’m always drawn to subjects tied to fond memories. I use photos to ensure the landscapes I paint are recognisable and true to the real places I love.

What is an art tool you use that you cannot live without?

My oval wash brush. It looks like a makeup brush and blends skies and water seamlessly. I use it dry to softly merge colours, creating dreamy, atmospheric skies and reflections.

What do you like to listen to when creating your art?

Most of the time, I listen to energising playlists I've curated. Sometimes, I switch to uplifting or funny podcasts like Brew With The Bennetts or Holly Tucker’s inspiring interviews.

What piece of your portfolio are you most proud of?

My painting of St Michael’s Mount was especially rewarding. Capturing the low-tide causeway and the reflection of the mount took patience and precision, but the twinkle of light between the cobbles made it all worthwhile.

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Apart from black, white and grey, why do you only use pink and purple colours in your art?

I’m currently drawn to what crimson and phthalo blue can do when mixed with white — the soft pinks and purples are beautiful and create a unique, calming palette.

My recent trip to Looe inspired a fresh colour shift. I plan to explore vibrant blue skies and fluffy white clouds in future collections.

How do you decide on the location you use for your landscape?

It’s all about connection and memory. Cornwall has been a constant in my life — even the long drives down packed into the backseat with my siblings bring a wave of joyful nostalgia.

Do you have any fun or interesting stories behind your pieces?

St Ives was where I first dreamt of being a professional artist. Years later, after leaving my role as a primary school teacher, seeing my work in Whistlefish Galleries in St Ives feels like a full-circle moment.

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My art journey wouldn’t be possible without the shared support from my husband. We split the weekdays evenly between parenting and work — a balance that’s helped both of us pursue what we love.