Introducing... Nomadic Arthouse

Welcome to the arthouse, the virtual London Gallery showcasing all of my illustrations over the last year.

To begin this journey, I want to introduce myself, as the artist and maker of this website and everything you see on it. Emily Hinckley, East Londoner, lover of all things art, culture and coffee. 

I created Nomadic Arthouse in May 2020, 2 months into lockdown and furloughed life, with a desire to get creative and bring art back into my life.  After finishing my degree in 2016, graduating with a first in Fine Art Photography, creativity became less and less a part of my day, with a need to earn enough money to be able stay in London so a "normal" job took precedent.   

Nomadic Arthouse is 1 year old, it has grown into a small (tiny) business I am so proud of, selling more prints to my wonderful loyal customers, being commissioned by lovely individuals and business owners to create a special exclusive gift and recently being involved in exciting collaborations. 

My most recent collaboration with Phlox Books, Francis Road, Leyton, I created a range of 3 postcards for the idyllic East London bookshop.

I am excited share with you new illustrations every month, new collaborations and partnerships. Follow my blog and sign up to my newsletter for exclusive promo's, gift bundles, commission prizes and more.

Lots of Love, Emily, Founder and Creator at Nomadic Arthouse

We can now Celebrate Birthdays, Anniversaries and Weddings again... 

Which means time to find your PERFECT GIFT! Need some ideas, see below Nomadic Arthouse top 5 Gift Ideas; 

1. A Commission Artwork - Unique, Stunning and Forever!

How about a Unique, Beautiful illustration, which can be printed and framed and added to your chosen persons home - to be treasured forever?! Whether it is a Wedding Venue, a special place, or a memory you want illustrated, you can commission Nomadic Arthouse to create your very own artwork. See most recent commissioned birthday gift below. From a Girl standing in front of a boy, just wanting to say "I Love You" with this unique, colourful illustration of their favourite spot. Submit your commission idea to Nomadic Arthouse here. 

 2. Lyres Spirit Gift Set 

For your friends that either do not like alcohol, on a sober detox, pregnant or just fancy trying something different... The Lyres Spirit Case. Either Espresso Martini gift set, or the Rosa Negroni set. So many more tasty non alcohol beverages to enjoy with your pals in a martini glass or a flute, however you like it. Get party planning with this elegant, delicious, trendy drinks. Find out more about Lyres here. 

3. Bring Hygge Home With a Candle from The London Candle Store

Whether your friend is a Dreamer, a Nomad, a Rebel or a Pioneer... You can gift them the perfect candle, with a stunning scent that feels their home with warmth and spice.  Or you can shop one of their iconic brands such as Fornasetti or Bella Freud, plus many more. Who doesn't love a candle? For those Danish Hygge vibes, and for a home that smells amazing. Shop The London Candle Store here. 

4. Brunch at the Beautiful Campania and Jones, East London 

 Got the taste for Southern Italian flavours? Looking for a European escape whilst trapped in London? Take your pal, lover or family member to the idyllic restaurant based in a hidden corner of the heart of East London for Handmade Pasta, Cold White Wine and freshly baked focaccia. Book your table here. 

5. Treat your pal and Shop Local at Pelican Story

Whether you want to buy your friend a Ceramic Cup or Candle Stick, or a Terrazzo ornament or a French Press... You should take a look at Pelican Story, they also have a market stall on Saturdays at Broadway Market where you can take take your pick of handmade well-crafted products which are all sourced locally. Check out their beautifully curated website here.

Or to continue shopping Nomadic Arthouse, shop here.

Time to spread the love with your best pals this Friday 30th August, for it is International Friendship Day! 

Top 5 things to do with your best pals on International Friendship weekend;

1. Mani-Pedi at your favourite nail salon
   Time to get your two best gals, and a booking at your trendy nail bar. Whether its swirls, dots, or a simple frenchie, get going so your nails are perfect for the weekend. I recommend @HouseofLadyMuck
   
   
2. Prosecco Picnic in your local park
   Grab a bottle of Prosecco, olives, crisps, dips and cheeses. Bring your favourite blanket and your handy speaker and run for your perfect picnic spot, whether its in direct sunlight or under dappled tree shade. Perfect afternoon with your pals. Don't forget water and SPF ;) 
   
   
3. Hampstead Ponds 
   Book your spot at Hampstead Ponds, take a refreshing dip in the chilly waters before taking a nature trail walk around Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill. 
   
   
4. Cycle ride around Richmond Park
   If you're the sort of group of friends that prefer wheels over walking, get on your bike and find a central meeting point, then take a nice flat route to the beautiful leafy Richmond Park. Ensuring to have a bagful of water, sandwiches and of course a few cans of brew dog to cheers once you land. 
   
   
5. Pasta making class 
   Book a delicious pasta making class with the amazing "Pasta Man" @Mateozielonka who currently heads up the kitchen at The Store X at Soho Works 180 The Strand

And as a little friendly giveaway from me, use discount code PALS15 to receive 15% off your next purchase when buying TWO prints.

SHOP PRINTS

5 Best London Coffee Shops recommended by Nomadic Arthouse 

1. Climpsons and Sons, Broadway Market

For the most amazing cinnamon morning buns, fresh steaming coffee, and warm flaky croissants, sit inside the cosy, wooden nook and read a book under the dazzling sunshine. Or walk around the neighbouring London Fields watching the world go by whilst sipping on an almond milk latte. 

2. Pophams Bakery

With two locations in Islington and Hackney, this idyllic kitchen serves a variety of warm and cold plates ranging from their infamous Coronation Chickpea Sandwich and Isle of Wight Tomato Sourdough Panzella to Bacon Maple Pastries and Marmite Schlossberger Twists. Their popularity is ever-growing, but no mind the queues as the smell that wafts out of the front doors keeps you waiting.

3. La Bouche Deli, Broadway Market

One of my all time favourites, this stunning French facade in the middle of East Londons Broadway Market. With a curated collection of fine wines, hanging garlic, speciality fresh pasta, a deli selling daily homemade salads and pastries and of course delicious French coffee. On the right hand side when you walk in they have a wide variety of cheeses to choose from. All in all it is a French delight in East London, perfect setting for an afternoon coffee or evening glass of wine and a good read. 

4. Marmelo, Phlox Books and Yardarm, Francis Road

 If you find yourself in Leyton, East London, make sure you take a walk down the picturesque Francis Road. You'll find yourself surrounded by deli's filled with retro cans of anchovies, fresh bread and locally brewed ales, bookshops, pilate studios, florists and wine bars... Outside each of these little gems, there are tables for you to enjoy a cup of coffee and work, or read.... whatever you decide.

5. Campania and Jones, Columbia Road

Just 5 minutes walk away from Shoreditch High Street, you'll find the exquisite street of local independent shops, Columbia Road, which also transforms into an enchanted and thriving flower market on a Sunday absolutely buzzing (heaving) with people from all over. Off the main road you'll find yourself down a magical courtyard, with antiques, record shops and in the centre you will find this Southern Italian restaurant, so popular you need to book a table these days... Selling mouthwatering dishes of freshly made gnocchi, basil pesto, Tomato Clam Spaghetti, cold white wine and a freshly made espresso. 

Nomadic Arthouse Picks Their Top 5 Essentials For Every Modern Home

 

1. Candles from Earl of East

For all the Hygge vibes, the most gorgeous aroma and for that orange tinted glow, get fully stocked up on Candles from Earl of East. They do all sorts from potted candles to 3-wicked candles, large double ended candles that can double as unique beautiful centre pieces. They even personalise the label for you, so they make the perfect gift too.

 

2. Terrazzo and Titz

Unique colourful Jesmonite ceramics handcrafted in Scotland with love and care. Terrazzo and Titz create stunning plant pots, candle holders, soap dishes, incense stick holders, made out of environmentally friendly materials. Perfect for any room in the house. Find your Spider plant the perfect home in this abstract handmade pot. 

 

3. Straw London

100% Linen Table Runner from Straw London, they come in a few different shades of autumnal colours. But for me, this yellow linen runner is perfect, a gentle reminder of summer, plus you won't see the mess when you spill the orange juice. You will find Straw London down the beautiful Columbia Road, or you can shop online. All of their products are sourced consciously and are all effortlessly cool and stunning for any home. You will find every East London Influencer buying from here.

 

4. Slowdown Studio 

 Slowdown Studio began its journey with these popular, versatile and unique blankets. Created in collaboration with artists from all around the world, each throw is jacquard woven using American-grown cotton. They can work as cozy companions for your bed or couch, stylish picnic blankets, or as the perfect wall hanging to add color to any corner of your home. Learn how to hang yours here. 

5. Nomadic Arthouse

 And of course, a bright, bold, colourful print of your favourite dog. Make your other pets fall in love with this stunning portrait. Alternatively, if you want to treat your pet to a well deserved gift, commission me to create a portrait of your beloved fur baby. 

 

 Enjoy your local shop!

 

Top 5 Restaurant Picks for your Birthday Celebrations

Calling all Libra's, if like me you have a birthday coming up, I thought it would be a good time to share my top five favourite restaurants to visit in London. For good vibes, delicious food and mouthwatering wine, get booking one of the below...

 

1. Crispin

Crispin, Pavilion Cafe on the Corner, White’s Row, London, E1 7NF

This is one of my absolute favourite places to eat in East London; the food, the service, the atmosphere and the wine is PERFECT! It is a gem found behind Spitalfields. Every week, the menu updates, keeping its most popular "everyday" dishes firmly in place. It is small plates, better to have a group of between 3-4 of you and just order everything because it all tastes so exquisite. It is ART FOR ALL YOUR SENSES, to appreciate the view, the smell, and more than anything the taste. I usually finish the meal with a negroni, wholesome, heated with a hint of spice. You will have a beautiful evening here, and will go back for more. Great thing is, it's in Shoreditch so you can head to the pubs after.

 

2. Campania and Jones

 Campania and Jones, 23 Ezra Street, London, E2 7RH 

Campania & Jones is a southern Italian restaurant in the heart of east London, just off Columbia Road, serving traditional dishes from the region. On the colder evenings, you can sit inside the rustic, artisanal small rooms of the restaurant, with the fire burning in the back of the restaurant and the tea lights scattered around, the hygge atmosphere is tangible, laughter and yummy utterances fill the room. As well as the rich lamb ragu, the creamy burrata and the sage butter ravioli, your taste buds will be buzzing all night, and you will be dreaming of that food for weeks ahead. Your pals will love you for introducing them to this delightful corner of the city. 

 

3. The Barbary

The Barbary, 16 Neal's Yard, Covent Garden, London, WC2H 9DP

A North African treasure found in the magical courtyard of Covent Garden, the iconic, Neals Yard. Their menu reflects the countries from the Atlantic Coast through to the Mediterranean Sea leading to the Middle East. This culinary heritage is about seasonality and availability; food cooked in the purest way, with fire, whether it was grilling on coals or baking in ancient clay ovens in the middle of the village. I had a date here with a gal pal and it was one of my favourite evenings this summer, sitting outside in the candlelit courtyard, with a bottle of delicious Spanish white wine chilling in the icebox and small plates of smokey, warming spiced food being served by a friendly waiter. We devoured Sesame seed Jerusalem bagels with Tabouleh and babaganoush, Yuzu marinated salmon, crispy chicken and flat breads with humous. I totally recommend this restaurant to anyone. I cannot wait to go back in autumn and sit inside around the bar...

4. Sketch London

 Sketch, 9 Conduit Street, London, W1S 2XG

Perfect evening to come with a big group of your pals, definitely an evening to dress up and glow up! The best backdrop to your instagram posts with the pink velvet armchairs, golden table lamps, mosaic tiled floors, David Shrigley artwork over every wall. It is certainly an inspiring setting for any meal. The food is minimalistic, stylised artfully on the plate, full of pastel colours to match the pink landscape. Make sure you have 100% battery on your phone because you will not be able to stop photographing... The food ranges from Lobster Fricassee, Seabass, to spatchcock chicken and steak tartare, melting in the mouth with every bite and then swallowed down with a freshly made spiced cocktail. Before you leave, ensure a visit to the toilets in your own pod, music and a warm glowing light, perfect to spend a couple of minutes digesting.

 

5. Barrafina

Barrafina, Dean Street, 26-27 Dean Street, W1D 3LL

There are four Barrafinas in London; the original site is on Soho’s Dean Street, there are two in Covent Garden, Adelaide Street and Drury Lane, and a fourth in Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross.

Each restaurant has an open kitchen, a beautiful marble-topped bar where guests can sit and watch the chefs at work and stylish red leather stools. The a la carte menus comprise authentic regional dishes from around Spain and there is also a daily changing specials menu unique to each restaurant. The succinct wine list features the finest Spanish sherries, Cavas and wines. Haven't been here yet, but BOOKED for a birthday meal in the next week, so will share my thoughts thereafter... EXCITED!

 

HOW TO RELAX LIVING IN A CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS

I have lived in London for 8 years and as much as I love the endless hustle bustle, there are times when I just need to shut off from the noise and enjoy just being in the moment, peace and quiet, relaxation and serenity. I wanted to share with my fellow city dwellers my top five favourite ways to find that moment of calm in a city that never sleeps, from £0 to £200, whatever your bank balance there is a perfect way to enjoy your special time to yourself.

1. Aire Spa

SPA FOR ONE PLEASE!

There are not many words to describe my time at Aire Spa, it's an 'if you know, you know' kinda experience. This was a special treat, a birthday present from my other half. I arrived at 8:45am on Sunday morning and left 3 hours later feeling 60kg lighter, I floated back to Holborn to catch the Central Line home where I then fell fast asleep listening to a Ludovico playlist. For 3 hours I felt like royalty, from when I arrived to when I was changed into my swimwear and ready for the ultimate spa experience, there was a polite and calming person at every step ready to "guide" me through the next stage. The pools ranged from body temperature to 40 degrees, cold plunge pools, vapour rooms, to a salt water pool and then the finale; a bath of a 1000 jets to really massage out those 9-5 induced knots. As I lay in the 40 degree pool, my head resting against the stone wall, candles circling the whole room filling the atmosphere with a warm orange glow, I was gently awakened from my bliss to be led to my full body green tea exfoliation and 45 minute massage... without going into too much detail, I almost dribbled, it was that good! After the massage, I enjoyed a glass of champagne and two refrigerated truffles before spending the last hour hopping from pool to pool, before the bells tinkled my time to leave. An experience I will never forget.

2. Climpson and Sons

BUT FIRST COFFEE

One of my most favourite things to do, particularly on a rainy grey British day, is pick up a book from one of my most beloved authors (I have plenty on my bookshelf), one that can bring a smile to my face on a bleak day. Hop on my bike and cycle to one of many cosy coffee shops in East London, some of my favourites; Climpson and Sons, La Bouche, Bach on Broadway Market, Milfields on Chatsworth Road, Footnotes on Wilton Way and Phlox Books on Francis Road. Cappuccino in one hand, book in the other, and the echoes of people chatting and laughing in the background. This is an easy way to find relaxation and me time in the city, this is my form of meditation. Even if it is just 30 minutes out of your day, that peace and self time is so important for the mental health of just being in the moment, off your phone.

3. Candles and Create

HYGGE FEELS PLEASE

Candle lights, glass of wine, and crafty things was a typical winter evening back in lockdown, one that I will continue through the next autumn/winter (just not as regularly as I do love a pub night with my pals too). A good movie on in the background, all the candles lit, a glass of pinot on my side table and my floor cover in paper, scissors, cutting board and glue, my go to craft (when I am not illustrating) is collages, I am obsessed with creating collages. You can go crazy, be so unique, minimal or cluttered, whatever your soul requires to feel fully restored in creativity. The process of delicately and carefully cutting out objects with the Stanley knife before gently gluing it onto the blank canvas is truly calming and mediative, and once finished you can sit back and joyfully stare at your masterpiece, finish your wine and breath. 

4. Campania and Jones

TABLE FOR ONE

Dinner for one Al Fresco style outside an off the beaten track restaurant, hidden from the noise and instead surrounding you with warmth from the candle light and the hushed tones of chatter from the pub next door. Campania and Jones is one of my favourite restaurants and can be enjoyed sitting outside throughout the whole year, just remember to add a wooly hat and thick scarf to your outfit that day. The chilled breeze is stunted by the oozy heat from the fresh potato gnocchi and complimented by the rich red wine. This is the perfect place to spend alone or with a pal, take a break from the hustle and bustle of the nearby London streets and instead sit back, breath and eat all the southern Italian deliciousness. 

5. Blok London

GET YOUR SWEAT ON!

My go to, to fully burn off that stress and feel invigorated is a Boxing class or a pilates class at Blok, or a nice cold run by the canal. Get those hands wrapped up and start boxing a punch bag to some loud hip hop, that will rinse your body of 9-5 stress, or start the day by unfolding your yoga mat, and get toning and stretching that core strength. Nothing beats a clear head from a 6am Pilates class followed by a coffee and a hot shower. Alternatively if the budget is running low by the end of the month, a brisk run along the canal or though a leafy park with a fun podcast or an upbeat playlist, for me I love running in the colder months, I adore that feeling of a cold fresh breeze hitting your face as you puff your way through the 5K. 

Thats it from me, I hope you find these top tips on how to RELAX in a CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS fun and rewarding.

 

Lots of Love, Emily at Nomadic Arthouse. 

1. Nomadic Arthouse Art Print
   Because who doesn't love walking around the city looking at the Christmas lights adorning the stunning facades and streets? Something I love to do with my sister to see in the holiday season, is wrap up nice and warm and take a long walk around central London seeing all the decorations lighting up the houses and sidewalks, get a glass of mulled wine on the way and eat some hot melted camembert. Bring Christmas City Lights home with you with this stunning A3 print, a unique colourful print will make anyone happy this year. 

   
   

2. Earl of East
   An absolute must in the Christmas stocking is a delicious warming scented candle. Earl of East are my favourite candle makers, there scents can transform any room into a cosy, spicy and aromatic sensation. You can even personalise the label to the person receiving this special gift.
   
   

3. Nkuku
   The best candle holders for your beeswax candle sticks. They are heavy, gold plated and dimpled, the quality emanates from these homemade holders. These are perfect even for the clumsier people out there as they will not knock over very easily, they will keep that candle burning and safe. These are certainly on my christmas list this year.
   
   
   

4. Phlox Books
   At least one book should be on everyones christmas list... On Boxing Day when you're coming out from your food coma but still drinking the baileys, fully relaxation mode is on, there is nothing more enjoyable than falling into a new adventure with a wonderful paperback. I love buying books from local book shops, nothing beats that smell of old books in combination with the fresh grinding of coffee beans and pine shelves. The experience of buying the books is just as good as reading them. 
   
   
   

5. One Small Shop
   How to make even the Grinch happy this holiday? A pair of cosy, soft, warm handmade socks. There is no better gift than the gift of cosiness. One Small Shop has some gorgeous pastel handcrafted socks, keep those feet snug and warm this winter. Put your feet up, hot chocolate in one hand and a book in the other and admire those toes.
   
   
   
   

   

6. Straw London
   How about some French homemade soap made from vegan, cruelty free ingredients by a local artisan family who have been in the business for 90 years? Mais, Oui. Not only leaving your body smelling luxurious and feeling soft, but also leaving your bathroom filled with a delicious floral scent.
   
   
   

7. Marmelo Kitchen
   How to build the perfect food hamper? First thing, shop the ingredients local... Secondly, buy things you cannot get at your local Tesco and thirdly manifest your inner Cameron Diaz in The Holiday. Marmelo has the most amazing produce from homemade pesto, retro tins of anchovies, jars of massive mouthwatering olives and crunchy almond biscotti to accompany your morning coffee. A small food hamper like this comes to below £30, you have supported a local deli and you are making the receiver of this food package very happy. 

 

 

 Hope you enjoyed my tips on the best stocking fillers this year, supporting small shops and businesses whilst also making everyone around the Christmas tree very happy.

 

Seasons Greetings, Love Emily x