Print is available in my shop now!

Acrylic on canvas 16 inches by 20

Photos from my last two painting retreats. Next up: Morocco! So excited for painting and exploring with wonderful people in a new and beautiful place ✨. Link is in my profile

Painting of my blind eye vs photos of it. Acrylic on paper

Old eye studies

Acrylic on canvas board

Acrylic painting of @sai.earth painted on our patreon hangout. Thanks for letting us paint you!

I am so excited to announce my upcoming painting retreat in Morocco! These retreats are the highlight of my year, a whole week of painting and teaching in a beautiful location, with wonderful people. They are always so magical, and a chance to get to know and bond with so many fascinating, supportive and creative people. May 16-23rd. It will be my only retreat next year, and it is limited spots. You can find more information, or book your spot at https://uptrek.com/retreat/faces-of-morocco-portrait-painting-art-retreat-artist-elly-smallwood-morocco (Link is in my profile) See you there! "Escape to the picturesque landscapes of Morocco and join artist Elly Smallwood for an inspiring portrait painting retreat. Elly will guide you through captivating art classes where you'll master acrylic painting techniques, capture dynamic expressions, and learn the anatomy of the face and body. Immerse yourself in Moroccan culture with visits to Agadir, vibrant markets, and serene beaches. Unwind at your premium retreat venue, the enchanting Atlas Kasbah. Indulge in delectable Moroccan cuisine, and experience a traditional Hammam bath. This retreat is your canvas to explore, create, and connect with the vibrant beauty of Morocco." @uptrekcom

Acrylic on canvas, painted from photos I took during my painting retreat in Spain this summer

Little sketches for patreons

On my live we were talking about where my art started, so here are some old photos, first one is from my graduation show (the one on the right is the one I told the story about), these were my first two large portraits, and what made me realize I wanted to paint figures. Second is the painting I used to get into art school. I was talking about how sometimes you just get lucky and get in for no real reason, my art was really bad. So if you don’t get accepted it isn’t a reflection on your art, sometimes you just didn’t get lucky. Third and fourth are vintage elly art. Fifth is the painting I was making after I graduated art school, 21. And last is my first time really showing my art.

Live Q&A! Thank you everyone who came!