Carys Wright
Live illustration and portraits
I draw portraits live at events - weddings, corporate dos, charity fundraisers, markets and conferences. People watch while it happens and leave with something special made for them in person on the day. It tends to become a focal point wherever I set up, which is usually the idea.
Available for bookings
I work at events where you want something for guests to genuinely engage with. Each portrait takes around 10 minutes, done in watercolour and pen and ink on the day. I bring everything - all materials, paper, a portable setup - and I'm used to working in whatever space is available.
Good for: weddings, corporate events, charity fundraisers, brand activations, birthday and Christmas parties, conferences.
Selection of portraits drawn live at an event.
Testimonial
"It was wonderful to have Carys join our fundraiser and to watch her sketching our mums and babies live at the event! Her drawings and paintings are just beautiful. It was a privilege to see her creations come to life while she chatted and made our attendees feel warm and welcome.
Thank you Carys for your time and your talent! We hope to have you join us again at our next event."
Emily (It Takes A Village Crystal Palace CIC)
Conferences and corporate
Live illustration works particularly well at conferences and corporate gatherings - capturing the energy of a room, drawing speakers or attendees, and creating a clear, engaging visual record of the day. I'm expanding into this area and available to discuss what would work for your event.
You can also find me at art and craft markets around London - Maple Road Market, Horniman Market, Pearly Makers Market, LK Fayres and Open Art Fair among others - selling prints, cards and homeware, and doing live portraits on the day. I share upcoming dates on Instagram.
Art and craft fairs
My stall at Maple Road Market
How it works
How many portraits can you do in a session?
Roughly 5–6 per hour as each one takes around 10 minutes. For a 3-hour event that's around 15–18 portraits, which works well for smaller gatherings. For larger events, get in touch and we can talk through what's realistic in the time you have.
What do you need from us?
A table and chair, good lighting, and a rough sense of the event schedule. I bring everything else - paper, paints, pens, a portable setup. No power needed.
What size are the portraits?
A5 as standard - small enough to take home easily, big enough to feel special. I can work larger on request and wrap each portrait in a cellophane bag and hard-backed envelope.
How far in advance should I book?
Four weeks is ideal, though I do sometimes have last-minute availability. For weddings and larger corporate events, earlier is better.
Do you work outside London?
Yes - I'm based in South London but available nationwide. Travel costs apply outside London.
Can we have branded paper or packaging?
Yes, happy to discuss this for corporate events and brand activations. It can make your event feel even more unique.
