Emma Paxton

I am a multi-disciplinary artist, and freelance illustrator and designer specialising in arts education, book arts, stop-frame animation, model making, and graphic design. I am a part-time lecturer on the BA Illustration course at the University of Portsmouth in the School of Architecture, Art and Design. I run my small-press publishing platform, Micro Library Books, exhibiting at illustration fairs in the UK and internationally, and since 2001 I have co-run an arts education partnership, Borbonesa, founded with fellow artists. The arts education projects I work on often focus on wellbeing and community, such as Stories in Transit, which aims to establish the right of displaced individuals to cultural expression.

Emma Taylor is an oil painter and art history student, engaging with the human condition, sensuality, gender, mortality, and intimacy. Emma managed and curated the March 2024 Women’s History Month exhibition in Farnborough. She is currently shortlisted for the 2026 Royal Female School of Art curatorial mentorship in collaboration with the White Box Gallery in London. Emma’s paintings are characterized by soft, atmospheric textures and a restrained, muted palette that reflects upon 19th century classical traditions. Figures often appear partially obscured, emerging from or receding into hazy backgrounds or exposed underpainting.

I’m a Coach, Trainer and Consultant working alongside, and supporting, people in theatre, arts and culture. I’m based in the New Forest. Chat to me about Leadership and Career Coaching; Risk and Safety training and organisational support. I’ve worked in the arts for 30 years, starting as Deputy Stage Manager (DSM) then Company & Stage Manager in theatre and opera – touring the UK and Europe and in the West End for over 14 years. I’ve held senior leadership roles at some of London’s leading venues including the Roundhouse and Almeida. I’ve worked across technical and production, health and safety, operations, general management and HR.