A Love Letter to Nature and Artisanship- Interview with Emily Carter
Emily Carter is a celebrated British designer and illustrator whose work capture the intricate beauty of the natural world. Her passion for biology and fascination with wildlife have seamlessly translated into her hand-illustrated silk accessories and interiors, admired worldwide and showcased by prestigious retailers. In our exclusive interview, Emily shares her creative process, insights on breaking into the luxury retail, advice for emerging designers and her vision for a future shaped by artisanship, sustainability and a deep commitment to environmental responsibility.
“Every illustration is born from a personal experience or memory.”
Emily, your work draws heavily on the natural world, and each design seems to tell its own story. Can you share the process behind translating these inspirations into a visual language that feels both timeless and personal?
Nature has always been my greatest inspiration, and each design begins with a personal connection to the natural world. Growing up, I was fascinated by biology and originally dreamed of becoming a biologist (which is why my recent book Insectarium was so personal for me). Instead I chose to channel this love for wildlife into my designs, allowing each piece to tell its own story. Every illustration is born from a personal experience or memory, which I believe infuses an authentic, timeless quality into my work. I believe it’s this personal connection that truly resonates with those who love my work.
Your products are stocked in prestigious retailers like Liberty, Harvey Nichols, and Selfridges. How did you secure partnerships with these iconic stores? What advice would you give to designers looking to break into luxury retail spaces?
It’s difficult but not impossible, and I have done so by expanding my reach on social media, and networking. Networking is fundamental in creative industries especially, and I have found that simply asking for an introduction or calling buyers directly is the best way to secure an order!
You’ve mentored young designers through organisations like The Prince’s Trust and UKFT. What’s a piece of advice that you feel isn’t commonly given but is crucial for young creatives to hear?
One crucial piece of advice I often share with young designers is the importance of balancing creativity with the practical demands of running a business. Being an artist and being an entrepreneur require two very different mindsets, and mastering both is essential for sustainable success. It’s easy to get lost in the creative side, but the business skills are what will allow you to share your work with the world effectively.
“Networking is fundamental in creative industries.”
Another piece of advice I feel is often overlooked is that setbacks are actually setups for growth. As Jamie Kern Lima says, “Your setbacks are setups for what you’re meant to do.” Talent alone isn’t enough, grit and resilience are just as critical. Success isn’t a linear path; it’s about embracing failures as learning opportunities and having the mindset to persevere through challenging times. I believe that success ultimately comes down to a choice to keep going, no matter what obstacles you’re faced with.
You’ve received accolades like being named in Forbes 30 Under 30. How have these awards impacted your business and brand visibility?
Forbes was by far the most pivotal moment of my career, and has brought some incredible friendships into my life, which has enabled my business and personal life to thrive in a way I’d never expected. We have our own community in London, which is essential, especially for a solo founder such as myself. Building a community of like minded people to surround yourself with who understand those inevitable highs and lows is so important when building a business.
“Forbes was by far the most pivotal moment of my career.”
Your work has been featured in top publications like British Vogue and Forbes. How has this media exposure shaped your brand’s journey and reputation?
The media exposure in publications like British Vogue and Forbes has been instrumental in shaping the journey and reputation of my brand. I’m incredibly proud to have achieved these features independently, without the support of PR agencies. This recognition has not only added credibility and prestige to my brand but also validates the quality and uniqueness of my work.
You’ve illustrated for several book publications, including your own book. Do you see your books as part of a larger mission to inspire environmental responsibility? conservation?
My books and illustrations are a key part of a larger mission to inspire awareness, appreciation, and responsibility for the natural world. Currently I’m working with the Royal Entomological Society, a partnership that allows me to connect art and science in ways that highlight the beauty and fragility of our ecosystems. Through my work I also hope to raise awareness about the urgent need for conservation and to inspire a sense of responsibility toward protecting wildlife and our planet. Moving forward I intend to dedicate more time to collaborating with wildlife charities and conservation organisations. My aim is to use my skills as both an artist and storyteller to bring visibility to these issues and encourage others to see the natural world not only as something beautiful but as something we’re deeply responsible for preserving.
What’s on the horizon for Emily Carter? Are there any projects or directions you’re exploring that push the boundaries of what you’ve done so far?
I am moving into licensing so we’re building some large partnerships for the next 3 years, and through these are looking to expand into home, perfume, jewellery and clothing.
“I believe that the purpose of art is to resonate and evoke emotion and connection.”
What legacy do you hope to leave behind, not only as a designer but as someone committed to craftsmanship, sustainability and supporting the next generation of creators?
Beautiful question – I believe that the purpose of art is to resonate and evoke emotion and connection. My hope is that each design I create becomes more than just an item – it becomes a piece of art that people cherish and connect with on a personal level. My vision is to build a heritage luxury brand known for timeless craftsmanship and sustainability, proving that success can be achieved without compromising our commitment to ethical practices or quality. I also hope to support the next generation of creators by showing that dedication to one’s craft, respect for nature, and artistic integrity can shape a meaningful legacy.
INTERVIEW BY OLIVIA MAROCCO – EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – BRAND YOU MAGAZINE
Article published in Brand You Magazine – Edition 34
Emily Carter – founder of Emily Carter London
Emily Carter is a celebrated British designer and illustrator whose work capture the intricate beauty of the natural world. Her passion for biology and fascination with wildlife have seamlessly translated into her hand-illustrated silk accessories and interiors, admired worldwide and showcased by prestigious retailers.
Website: emily-carter.co.uk
Instagram: @emilycarterlondon
