Olivia Lomenech Gill was born in Cambridge in 1974 and spent her formative years immersed in the landscapes of Northumberland, along the Scottish border. Her keen interest in observing nature and animals was fostered during this period. However, it was in Palmyre, Syria, that Olivia honed her artistic skills through observational drawing courses at the age of 15, laying the groundwork for her future artistic endeavors.
Fascinated by the diverse realms of illustration, engraving, and sculpture, Olivia Lomenech Gill initially delved into the world of drama at the University of Hull. Later, she pursued a Master's degree in engraving from the esteemed Camberwell College of Arts in London, delving deeper into the intricacies of printmaking. This multidisciplinary approach allowed her to explore various facets of artistic expression. For those acquainted with Olivia, it is fascinating to note that her distinctive style, both in life and in her work, has been a constant presence since the beginning.
In 2012, Olivia's trajectory underwent a significant shift with her first professional illustration commission. Entrusted with the task of illustrating "Where My Wellies Take Me," a book by Michael and Clare Morpurgo, this project not only showcased her artistic skills but also garnered critical acclaim. The book was shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal and won the English Association Picture Book Award.
Capturing the discerning attention of none other than J.K. Rowling, Olivia received a commission to sketch dragons for a clandestine project—later unveiled as Rowling's work: "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them." Employing a diverse array of techniques, including copper plate engraving, collage, chalk, and pastels, she brought to life the fantastical creatures that now grace the pages of Rowling's magical universe. The book was published by Bloomsbury in England and Gallimard in France.
In 2019, Olivia, along with her family, embraced a new chapter in Brittany, France, bringing her studio (and several tons of antique printing presses) with her. Undeterred by the change, Olivia continued her illustrative pursuits, including Jessie Burton's "Medusa" in 2021.
The years 2022 and 2023 witnessed Olivia exhibiting a segment of her extensive portfolio focused on medieval bestiaries at the Scriptorial in Avranches (where the manuscripts of Le Mont-Saint-Michel are on display) and the Château de la Roche-Jagu in Brittany. Complementing her exhibitions, she delivered conferences, sharing insights into her artistic journey, and runs workshops.
Olivia Lomenech Gill is renowned for her versatile and expressive artistic techniques, which often blend various forms of printmaking, drawing, and painting. A key method in her repertoire is etching, a traditional printmaking technique where she uses metal plates and acid to create intricate, fine-lined images. This process allows her to develop works with significant texture and depth, often giving her pieces a tactile quality.
In addition to etching, Olivia frequently employs mixed media, combining materials such as watercolor, ink, charcoal, and pencil. This approach results in richly layered compositions, where visible brushstrokes and fine details create a sense of life and movement. Her ability to seamlessly integrate different media brings an organic and dynamic feel to her work.
Olivia Lomenech Gill also incorporates collage-like elements into some of her pieces, particularly in her illustrations. By layering various textures and materials, she adds complexity and depth, enhancing the visual experience for viewers.
Her talent extends to large-scale drawings, often depicting animals, landscapes, and fantastical scenes. These drawings are marked by a somewhat loose, yet expressive style, which captures movement and vitality.
This unique combination of traditional etching and mixed media techniques has earned Olivia Lomenech Gill recognition in both the fine art world and in book illustration. Notably, her work on the illustrated edition of J.K. Rowling’s Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them showcases her ability to merge fine art with imaginative storytelling.