Galway illustrator Ellen McCann was handpicked amongst three other artists in the world to feature on Kim Kardashian’s website.
The 27-year-old, who shares her art under the name Nelle Illustrations, had her illustrations go live on Tuesday on Kim Kardashian’s website and app – which is used by millions of fans around the world.
Speaking about the incredible opportunity, Ellen explained how it all came about after she started getting recognised by the famous family on Instagram.
“I’m always creating art and putting on social media, mainly Instagram, that’s where it all started. Over time, the Kardashians have liked some of the art and even reshared it,” she told Independent.ie.
Featured on https://t.co/vwfQWQligV. My art was requested by Kim herself! ☺ #kimkardashian#nelleillustrationspic.twitter.com/awDFDYfjqu
— Nelle Illustrations (@Nelle1717) March 24, 2016
“Kris Jenner reshared a piece on her Instagram and Facebook, Kim liked it and Khloe commented on one – I think they were quite aware of me.
“One night, I got this email and the first two lines explained who they were, emailing me on behalf of Kim Kardashian – they said Kim loves my illustration. This has to be a joke!
After her artwork went live on the famous reality star’s website, the illustrator described the reaction as “overwhelming”.
The GMIT graduate explained that she loves to work hard, and was previously commissioned by American fashion designer Michael Costello for an illustration of Jennifer Lopez, which the star then praised on her own Instagram.
“I’ve often stayed awake all night creating art – I’d spend 80 hours a week on this and some nights I’m working until 3am. I’m only too happy to do it.
“The more detailed sketches could take seven hours, but I like to give 120% to everything. I don’t like cheating myself, I like to work hard.
“I don’t want to be fooling myself. Of course, I’m drawing for everyone else – but I’m drawing for myself, if I’m not giving all my effort
“It’s like therapy for me, I’m quite an anxious person, the art quite helps and relaxes me,” she added.
