Art Supplies, Fried Food & Line Work | An Illustrator's Week

[@hollyexley]

Hope you enjoy this weekly vlog! Just wanted to add about my smear test - that it wasn't painful! Just sliiiightly uncomfortable. (Because I'm worried I will put some women off, when really I just wanted to share an honest experience and show that it's just part of normal life!) Please share your own experiences if you're comfortable to.

[@karinageddes2767]

It has to be said there are sometimes some mild discomforts afterwards and that's OK, so hopefully you would've made people more aware ❤️

[@josiewallace4478]

I just had my first one done and yes it was uncomfortable and I bled a bit after, but I wouldn’t say it’s so much so that it should put anyone off from getting it done. It’s a necessary evil which isn’t toooooo unbearable. I appreciate your openness and honesty on this topic. Loved the vlog as always 💜 thanks for sharing.

[@EmmaCarpenterIllustration]

The first time I had one I had a really lovely nurse who explained everything and said that if you’re nervous it can make it more painful as you kinda clench up. Obviously they can be difficult things to relax at, I usually just try taking some deep breaths.

[@hollyexley]

So true, I do lots of deep breathing! Also really helps to have a chat with the nurse whilst getting set up, any distraction is good! @@EmmaCarpenterIllustration

[@danielleillustrates4971]

I had my first smear this year and as someone who’s had two surgeries on my uterus I was suuuuuper nervous that I was going to hurt, especially with me having endo as well but I was surprised just how little it hurt, faintest cramp feelings but it was over so fast which was a relief. My nurse was lovely too which helped :)

[@wangnanzhou7921]

This is such a comforting video. The music, the painting process, the way of your talking and showing in front of the camera. It makes me love life.

[@patriziacathey605]

Hello Holly and Craig, as a mother of two grown children around your age I find it fascinating to peek into your world.It is not about being nosy but just an interest in their peers and how others live in other parts of the world. Your videos are wonderfully produced and you two make the most mouth-watering dishes that look amazing! I can see why a cookbook is perfect for you.Lastly, I would like to say, I would be extremely proud to be a parent to such extraordinary people! Your caring,compassion, and resolve to make this world a better place gives me great hope for our future! Thank you both. Oh yeah,almost forgot to mention how much I love your art,beautiful!

[@hollyexley]

Patrizia Cathey Hi Patrizia- thank you for leaving SUCH a lovely message! I will share this with Craig. So glad you are enjoying my videos 💙💙

[@marisspot7677]

Hard to say what I enjoy MOST about your videos, I love the mix of things. I enjoy the food, seeing your dogs, watching you paint, listening to you talk, spending time with your hubby, I enjoy all of it. I really enjoy your choices of background music while you paint, and I love seeing other artist’s creative processes.

[@HoneybunchofOnionTops]

agh Holly all the food looked IN-sanely amazing!!! seriously, was that katsu curry - oh my lorrrde!! loved Craig's katakana narration of everything, definitely do that myself sometimes hehe, since forgetting most of the Japanese i learn't through school. I loved that this vlog had a bit of everything, i saved it up for a nice quiet moment and i seriously enjoyed it :)) thank you for making such wholesome, genuine, creative content

[@paulinefollett3099]

The video was a really nice mix of your life. It was very well edited. I particularly loved watching you paint, as I find it very relaxing.

[@cherryberry2423]

Love your videos. When ever I am having one of those days, your videos are always like a cozy blanket. So relaxing and soothing. Thank. you so much.

[@kittykittymeowmixhea]

I love your vlogs and you and Craig are vegan geniuses in the kitchen! Can't wait to get the cookbook!

[@shanslam1970]

Fantastic vlog Holly love the painting and foody stuff....

[@somebodyelsa]

As an illustrator myself I know how our days can seem so uninteresting sometimes and we can’t share all we’re doing. You did a great job with this vlog sharing so many different things ❤️

[@hollyexley]

somebodyelsa thank you! Yes, sometimes (often) I’m just at my desk all day and evening and it’s very boring & unglamorous! Filming bits throughout the week seems to help

[@lifeontheround]

Love your dress Holly. Never doubt yourself, you are lovely. ❤️

[@jenvcampbell]

I really loved this vlog, Holly. xx

[@chloefox1057]

Really beautiful dress Holly! 😍xxx

[@EllisWoolleyIllustration]

Your new dress suits you so much! Thankyou for talking about smear tests too, I’m due my next one next April & my last one was really easy so I hope the next one goes just as smoothly 🙈 x x

[@bybun]

seeing cuddly and sleepy Quentin in your lap was so darling!

[@hollyexley]

by bun are all pugs this cuddly?! I hope so, I always want to be a pug mum 💙

[@darkbluematter1753]

Not something I imagined saying but I really enjoyed watching you paint that poop bag, lol. I think I just like watching you paint.

[@justtubingby129]

This was fun to watch

[@lyndaslattery8773]

Love your dress - I wouldn't have guessed it was from the 70's! Looks like it lends itself to being dressed down or up (add a tailored blazer and heels). Love using colored pencils! But I need to practice more with water soluble pencils.

[@carollangman1163]

Great content, always interesting to watch....love that dress 👗and the vintage cardigan x

[@JennyGranberry]

I'm glad I'm not the only one that feels totally weird when I'm dressed up and wearing more makeup. Its like I should feel more pretty and confident but instead I'm like WHO AM I???? AHHHHHHH AHHHHHHHH

[@hollyexley]

Jenny Granberry yes! And sometimes I forget I have put makeup on and it’s such a shock when I look in the mirror. Who is that girl?!

[@Elleninthetrees]

Fantastic! You are a woman of many many means. Love the food ;) much respect for your honesty and advocacy.xx

[@YThates]

Omg Japanese sandwichesssssssss, before I became a vegetarian I used to eat the fried oyster burgers and cream cheese salmon sandwiches from a japanese sandwich shop/bakery I loved. SOOOO much. They have tons of great vegetarian and vegan options, great great food. Great healthy food. I like the colors you used for the piece today, That's the kind of palette I use when I'm in the mood for some old looking french-pop inspired stuff with more muted colors. Love the upload keep going Holly~It's great to see you in a great mood.

[@littleowl1458]

Lovely vlog :) Enjoyed it so much. You look really pretty in that dress. ❤

[@Sophia-ly7wm]

seeing you wearing a dress in the first few seconds of the video just made my day even better! luv u holly!

[@hollyexley]

Haha thank you Sophia!

[@ateliervanrosa5860]

So many good vibes in this video! love it :) You are so back on track

[@hollyexley]

Atelier VANROSA aw thank you!

[@Cokic1]

Loved all parts of your video Holly - many moments of inspiration in the different strands. Thanks for sharing!

[@elisamilan]

I would love more speedpaints! I'm also very excited for your vegan cookbook. All the stuff you made looked amazing!

[@thereversepolarbear]

loved this. :)

[@debbiedew1]

Love it!

[@cherryberry2423]

Love your pug baby

[@caoscreativo-art]

Holly, I really love to watch you painting, it's very relaxing. Your painting style is unique, you're so delicate with that tiny little brush and yet the result is very strong and colorful. As a painter myself (a very shy one with just one YT video up :-P) I appreciate your techinque very much. I tried to paint in watercolor a few times but it doesn't seem to be something I am naturally built for, I'm more comfortable with gouache and colored pencils. And that's probably why I admire your style even more! Because I think you have a talent for it and it comes natural to you. Thank you for sharing your art and lifestyle with us. Quentin is SOO ADORABLE!!!

[@caoscreativo-art]

I just wanted to add that when you upload a video I can hardly keep myself from watching it staight away! :-D It's a real treat to me.

[@leonatsiara]

You look beautiful in this dress Holly! Thank you for sharing with us! 😊

[@hollyexley]

Thank you Leona!

[@Dan.B.Artist]

I really enjoyed this vlog. It was really nice to see a mix of art, food and extra bits.

[@deskgoblin1568]

I LOVE Fred Aldous, there's so much to mooch. Also adore the dress, I started fishing on ebay for dress' like that a couple of years ago, at first I felt like I was really dressed up, but now its all I wear!

[@ChristiPetaloti]

Than you Holly for your new upload. This is your best video by far, so chilling. BTW I didn't realize that Quentin was in your arms until he opened his eyes.

[@hollyexley]

Christi Petaloti tee hee , yes he’s just a little dark shape in my arms isn’t he 😅

[@Arovarel]

This video made me so hungry. Love when you include the food related content, gives me a lot of new food ideas and also makes me very curious to explore more :)

[@SophieMelissa]

I had my first smear test a few weeks ago as I turned 24 I got the letter, I’m someone that has awful cramps and endometriosis and for me the smear didn’t hurt at all! Which was a nice surprise! Even if it does though, you’re right, it’s so important to get done :) I loved this vlog!

[@hollyexley]

Sophie Melissa that’s good to hear. I agree Sophie, thank you for sharing!

[@llamabean529]

I was looking for something to calm my mind down and here you are. I really enjoy your vlogs and the way you paint still blows my mind. Hope you have a lovely weekend 😊

[@sandraeichner]

I so couldn’t wait for your vlog Holly. I think I am officially an addict 🤪🤭 Have a great week ahead!

[@jacotromp1065]

You are an awesome lady. Love your videos.

[@gonnie8464]

Love your lifestyle and you looked very pretty in your dress! Loved your painting. Cute doggy and Greg. Loved it all. And good lady’s talk!

[@dodalton1]

I'm so happy I found your vlog. PS - I keep my bananas chopped and frozen for smoothies. They freeze well and can also be used for baking after thawed.

[@hollyexley]

oh yes, I prefer to use frozen ones too - but I usually freeze them when they're really ripe and sweet. These weren't quite there!

[@mpsensha]

Now I'm hungry.... everything looked so yummy.

[@MB-ci2qf]

I do really enjoy watching your vlogs and I love your watercolour paintings soo much. You're very talented ⭐

[@hollyexley]

Mopsi Boli thank you!

[@lizzy6555]

The polychromos are AMAZING! I use them all the time 😍 love your new video dear Holly! 💖

[@lizzy6555]

Oh and if you want to see some of my work ... you can find me on IG: @sprookjesdromen (that is Dutch for ‘faerytaledreams’ 😉) 🤗

[@hollyexley]

Exited to get to grips with using them!

[@diarts4458]

I love your vlogs, so inspiring in so many ways, thanks for sharing, Holly 😘

[@annakersten4539]

I liked the mix of this video, a bit of everything :)

[@julie8234]

Amazing dress!

[@andrada-mariapricop8986]

Loved this vlog too. Anything you want to share in your vlogs is good. Watching them makes me feel relaxed and positive. The wallpaper/poster with the breads looks so good in your kitchen. I feel like making some food illustrations for my kitchen too, since it's very white and uninteresting :)).

[@azzuparis]

I don't mind at all longer vlogs. I enjoy watching what you guys cook, your paintings, crazy Craig 😂 I love your new dress, it suits you very well 💕

[@hollyexley]

Azzu Paris thank you 😊

[@PolinaKalina]

Yay to a sweet long vlog :D Loved it! :)

[@nathanprideart]

I really love your videos. Great balance of all things Holly this week. So much good food you were making!! Thank you for sharing your art life with us.

[@AndraMarieArt]

This vlog made me hungry! I loved the art!

[@deoko1]

I get super happy when I see your videos. I been having a tough month and well, your videos help. Specially when Quentin shows up! the dress was amazing and went fabulously with your hair, the sandwich looked so good I wish I could try it!. And you've made me interested in colour pencils again

[@hollyexley]

deoko1 so glad you liked it! Hope things get better for you soon 💙

[@ousakouze]

Ohhhhhhhh!! Many thanks for uploading this video!!!! Very happy!!! Have a Safe and productive week!!!

[@RebeccaYoder]

I loved this video. Thanks for another lifestyle vlog. Can't wait for the next one.

[@aidag6516]

Omg I was in that store looking at those pencils last week haha!

[@skyx5983]

I really hope u upload alot like this video it was really fun watching every single second of it❤

[@TheSunnyDaydreamer]

Really loved this video Holly ☺️ and that dress is amazing!

[@jimneysweep9810]

Thank you for your videos . We’re are you based ? The countryside at the start I couldn’t work out it if it was north England . Looks relaxing. The city buildings look inspiring

[@louiselangton]

Fred Aldous 😍 I'm a bad Manc and hardly ever know about any of these awesome food festivals you go to. Must do better... also smear tests 💛 mine are always super painful but would never forgo. Have a great weekend Holly x

[@hollyexley]

Louise Langton there’s one called Plant Powered Sunday’s- that’s our fav!

[@JannetjeW]

You are very pretty,with or without makeup!!

[@justlovealways]

I love Holly's videos so much. 💜 Btw the song at 17 min sounds like it's from the movie Amelie :)

[@msabutera2]

another lovely vlog!! loved your ebay outfits. man i squeezed my legs shut tight as soon as you brought that up haha. man it really sucks. honestly i haven't been in years but your vlog kind of reminded me about it and how yes, it really does have the potential to save your life. you never know. and dealing with the discomfort every year or so is worth it for that alone. thanks

[@melanieg8139]

I love your videos... they are like meditation 😚🌸🌼🌿

[@TheSissie]

Your dress is great! Suits you very well 👌🏼👌🏼😉

[@hollyexley]

Renate Ann thank you!

[@angelasetchfield9227]

Yay a Holly vlog! Always brightens a Friday :-) Loved all the food, very inspiring to see what kinds of things you eat, especially as I'm the only vegan in my house! Beautiful painting too x

[@aalicemartins]

I really like how you and your boyfriend truly seem to be best friends :)

[@hollyexley]

Alice Martins thank you , we are (most of the time!) *husband 😆

[@aalicemartins]

@@hollyexley That's right! you guys got married, congratulations :D!!!

[@kimolyslager]

Such a nice vlog Holly! Your vlogs are one of my favourite ones to watch. 💛 And looooving the new dress, you look stunning! The faber castle polychromos are amaaazing, I got them two years ago for my birthday (best birthday present ever!) and I still LOVE them so much. They are also really lovely to add little details or/and contrast in watercolour paintings!

[@hollyexley]

Kim Olyslager yay! I’ve heard a lot of good things about them, excited to get to grips with then

[@fanciboiz2607]

I really love your dress, that’s a brilliant find! I’m also an artist illustrator and a full-time mum until next year. I hardly travel. Just saying hi, love your channel ❤️

[@Sara-ti7he]

I loved this video Holly! Really nice mixture of art, food and heart to heart chats

[@sydneymartin8925]

Where is the quilted kimono from? It’s so cool!

[@keshnadonia]

Would you consider doing a tutorial in your painting style?

[@rach.2489]

hi, i loveee the idea of cork flooring, i just wondered if you recommend it? especially as you've had it for a year or so now x

[@evangelinepoe8952]

'Where's my top off? I thought we were a team!' -- Still laughing about that. 😂 Wonderful video. All the food looked delicious! Wish I could dine at Holly & Craig's Bistro.

[@hollyexley]

Evangeline Poe 😆 I’m a brat

[@ang.giselle2024]

You look like one of those rich artists from the Riviera with the sunglasses. As you say: Hand me my brushes James, I'm going to the garden to paint my master piece. Hahahahah. ❣️

[@hollyexley]

Giselle collazo 😂

[@Madelelion]

Smear tests are super necessary! I had my second one last week and it wasn't a fun experience but I had two nurses doing their own comedy show throughout which made it an interesting one for sure... So does Craig make his seitan himself? like from scratch? if so, that's amazing. if not, he knows how to make it amazing! excited for your cookbook

[@hollyexley]

Maddie Coussens I think it really helps to have someone talking to you to distract ! Yes Craig makes it from scratch 😋

[@hollyexley]

Ps there will be a couple of Craig’s seitan recipes in the book!

[@TheNzyyyyy]

Hey do you know it's also super tasty when you add mustard in tonkatsu sandwiches?

[@hollyexley]

Nozomi T next time we will do this! 😋

[@leyla_zhunus]

What is the music at 17:30 ?

[@EmmaCarpenterIllustration]

Quentin looked so content having a cuddle 😁 is he a cat in disguise?

[@hollyexley]

Could well be! He even sits like a cat with his paws tucked in

[@Kuhoochandra]

Hi, I do not know much about you but I sure do know is that I like your art very very much. I had a few questions, it is a far pitch, but I was hoping I could get some answers and maybe some motivation. I just graduated in Design and I decided to quit my job and start practicing on my own. Maybe on day I'll be as recognised as you. I am starting to dabble in panting and illustration. And I wanted to know, if its okay; how do you earn? I am terrible at marketing myself. And I do not know how to approach and even what to approach in order to start earning something or even make a name of my self. I have an etsy, i have a youtube, but its all not really working. How did you start? Channels like yours, are goals and even sources of jealousy at times. I was hoping if you could guide me a little. Ill be greatful. Thanks

[@fawn2911]

I know your question is directed at Holly but hopefully this will help. I'm currently studying Illustration and Animation as well as doing commissions on the side. One of the most important things is creating an online portfolio and being active on social media such as Instagram. Instagram hashtags are a great way for you to expose your work to many people. You can also share your work in progress on your Instagram story, as well as advertise your Etsy products. An online website/portfolio is a good way for potential clients to discover you as you'll be able to put your work into categories and summarise your specialty (e.g. Food Illustration by [insert full name here], therefore making it easier for people to discover you when googling things like 'food illustration', 'food illustrator', 'graphic design', etc 😊

[@hollyexley]

M A answered perfectly! An online portfolio is so important, more important than social media I would say - especially if you are wanting commercial work. My clients almost exclusively find me through google searches, the results leading to my website or blog. I’ve heard using Flickr is also good for search results. Also Pinterest. The biggest piece of advice and the most simplistic too - is to keep on producing work for your portfolio, keep strengthening it , upload new work to your online portfolio(website) and clients will find you.

[@macclift9956]

The dress looks great on you; both outfits are lovely: a bit Japanesey (if that's a word).

[@hollyexley]

Mac Clift thank you! Any reference to Japan is a compliment in my book!

[@Marxnchill]

Omg same! The more effort I put into my appearance the less confident I feel