Hello! I’m Isabel Howlett, an artist born in Sussex, England now living in Madrid. I specialise in abstract painting and creating unique lampshades. Through my artistic endeavours, I bring vibrancy and vitality to any space by carefully crafting bold patterns and using high quality materials. Drawing inspiration from vintage fabrics and my own painting practice, each lampshade showcases playful yet timeless designs.

My journey into the world of textile art began during my time in London, particularly after visiting Lucienne and Robin Day’s retrospective at The Barbican Gallery in 2001. I loved the intricate patterns of textiles from the 1950s and delved into the history of textile design, immersing myself in artistic movements and design philosophies.
Combining my background in Fine Art with a newfound passion for textiles, I embarked on a creative adventure to infuse my artwork with the charm of mid-century aesthetics. My distinctive style is characterised by bold geometric shapes and dynamic compositions, paying homage to the whimsical allure of the post-war era while maintaining a contemporary touch.

Since moving to Madrid in 2016, my work has continued to evolve, emanating warmth and vitality while evoking a nostalgic longing for bygone times.

The process of taking my abstract paintings and turning them into fabric lampshades means that my work can be reproduced affordably for more people to enjoy and allows another avenue for artistic expression, combining my interest in graphic, interior and lighting design.