Meet Ella
Hi, I’m Ella.
I’m an art therapist, coach and counsellor, and I’ve spent more than 20 years working in the mental health space, both in private practice and with mental health organisations.
Over the years, I’ve seen just how powerful creativity can be when people are given the space to slow down, reconnect, feel safe and supported, and simply have a go.
That belief sits at the heart of Paint & Play.
Along with my love of colour, creativity and bringing people together, I wanted to create experiences where people could relax, let their guard down a little and enjoy making something without worrying about whether they were doing it “right.”
I don’t believe art has to be serious, polished or perfect to be meaningful.
Sometimes it starts with simply picking up a brush.
A colour catches your eye.
Someone beside you makes you laugh.
You add something to the canvas you never planned.
And somewhere along the way, you stop worrying about whether you’re “good at art” and start enjoying what’s happening.
That’s the kind of magic I love creating space for.
What happens at a Paint & Play workshop?
Paint & Play workshops are relaxed, welcoming small-group experiences designed for everyone, whether you paint all the time or haven’t picked up a brush since school.
Rather than everyone creating their own version of the same painting, we gather around one large shared canvas and make something together.
Everyone adds their own colours, marks, ideas and little pieces of themselves.
There’s no painting to copy. No perfect outcome to achieve. No right or wrong way to do it.
Just come as you are, have a chat, enjoy the music and give yourself permission to play.
More than just painting
The painting is only part of it.
For me, Paint & Play is just as much about connection, belonging and how people feel while they are creating.
It might be the chance to meet someone new.
To reconnect with a friend.
To switch off after a busy week.
To do something that scares you a little.
To remember that you are allowed to make things simply because it feels good.
My background in art therapy, counselling and coaching shapes the way I facilitate each experience too.
I want people to feel welcomed, comfortable and supported, especially if they arrive nervous, come on their own or believe they are “not artistic.”
There is no pressure to perform here.
Just space to create, connect, play and experience a little magic of your own.
🎨 Create
Follow your curiosity and make something without worrying about getting it right.
✨ Connect
Share conversation, laughter and creativity with the people around you.
🌼 Play
Experiment. Make a mess. Change your mind. See what happens.
More Ways to Create with me
Alongside communal Paint & Play workshops, I also offer relaxed one-to-one creativity sessions and private experiences for workplaces, families, celebrations and community groups.
Whether you want a little more space for yourself or you’re looking for a creative way to bring people together, there are plenty of ways to Paint & Play.
Ready to paint and play?
Come as you are. Create. Connect. Find your spark.