The Journey of the Hyperrealism Colored Pencil Artist Hannah Lipsey - from Childhood Dreams to Reflective Masterpieces.

an article written by Carmen Line Hust

The British artist Hannah Lipsey is currently producing realistic drawings using colored pencils on paper. Her fascination with hyperrealism, a style that blurs the line between art and reproductive photography, has been a constant source of inspiration. This passion is evident in her series of reflective drawings, where the reflections and what they reveal are as crucial as the objects themselves. Hidden within these detailed works are tiny self-portraits, inviting viewers to look closely and engage with the art on a more personal level.

From a young age, Hannah aspired to be an artist, although she initially doubted the viability of this career path. Influenced by her academic environment and the limited career options presented to her, she aimed to become an art teacher. Before the rise of social media, she was unaware of the diverse opportunities available to artists. After completing her university degree, she spent nearly a decade in various jobs, from waitressing to managing a pet shop, with art taking a backseat.

Approximately five years ago, Hannah discovered the potential of social media, particularly Instagram, to connect artists with a broader audience and provide a sustainable income. Initially focused on abstract acrylic paintings, her artistic journey took a significant turn when she tried her hand at graphite pencil portraits, starting with a drawing of her niece. This experiment revealed her natural talent and led to numerous commissions. Eventually, she transitioned from commissioned portraits to creating her original artworks, driven by a newfound determination to make a living through her art.

Hannah's artistic vocabulary developed through a combination of natural talent and intuitive learning. She found color mixing and light balance to be inherently straightforward, relying on her keen eye rather than formal color theory education. Graphite work, with its focus on light and dark contrast, came naturally to her. However, mastering composition required more effort, particularly during her university years. Over time, she honed her ability to visualize and create compelling compositions.
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Her approach to themes in her work has evolved dynamically. The reflective series, for instance, began serendipitously when she was captivated by a rose gold ornament and felt compelled to draw it. This led to an exploration of reflective objects, driven by an instinctive attraction to certain items. Hannah's process involves extensive reference photo sessions, often taking hundreds of photos to find the perfect one. Lighting, reflection, and angle are critical, with some objects requiring significant deliberation to capture the desired effect.

Colored pencils are Hannah's preferred medium, despite their limitations compared to paint. She appreciates the precision and clean lines they offer, even though the color choices are more restricted and the process is time-consuming, with each drawing averaging 100 hours to complete. Her preference for colored pencils reflects her meticulous nature and dedication to detail.
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When it comes to developing new projects, Hannah balances between pre-conceived ideas and spontaneous inspiration. While her reflective series emerged organically, the pressure to sustain her career necessitates careful consideration of future themes. Practical constraints such as cost, space, and expertise also influence her choices. Currently, she is working on a series featuring resin objects, collaborating with other artists she admires on Instagram. This collaboration allows for mutual exposure and the creation of unique pieces that maintain her interest in shiny surfaces but with a fresh twist.

Hannah believes that a good composition hinges on the contrast of light and dark and the strategic placement and angle of the subject. While color is significant, she emphasizes personal preference over universal appeal, cautioning against creating art solely to please others. This approach ensures that she remains passionate and true to her vision.
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Among the many artists who have influenced her, Alessandro Paglia stands out. His original and meticulously executed work inspires Hannah to strive for uniqueness in her creations. Without the influence of artists she discovered online, she might not have realized the potential for a career in drawing, underscoring the impact of finding inspiration and community through social media.

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This article about Hannah Lipsey takes part of the 40th magazine, ARTICULATE | Anthropocene. Read, download or order your print version of the full publication below.