The Inky Deer 🦌 is small illustration business based on the Nottinghamshire/Derbyshire border, founded in 2015 by watercolour artist Daisy Maude.

I create original hand painted works inspired by wildlife, flora and fauna of the natural world. Every piece begins with either watercolour or ink, before being carefully prepared by hand for print, production or bespoke commission work.

Over the past decade, my work has evolved to include surface pattern design and a range of illustrated goods such as stationery, giclée prints, and decorations alongside bespoke wedding stationery.

I find inspiration in the ever changing environment, surrounding countryside where I live, and wildlife in the wider world too. I love traditional botanical illustrations, old books, and campaigning for wildlife and the environment. All of these things heavily influence my work, and I aim to create artwork that inspires others to appreciate the wonders of nature too 😊🌿

Past commerical clients and stockists include: Tinker Tailor London, Fortnum and Mason, Liberty of London, Pia Jewellery, Fenwick, The Royal Shakespeare Company, Historic Royal Palaces, and Westminster Abbey Shop.

About the brand...Why 'The Inky Deer'? 🦌

I’ve always had a love of deer, they’re such beautiful creatures. Living on the edge of ancient woodlands, deer are never too far away hiding in the trees or sprinting across the meadow. There's something almost magical about them for me.

When I first started my illustration career after college, I exhibited a large ink drawing of a stag, and it really inspired me to continue in the medium. Much of my early work focused solely on ink, where I developed a love for fine detail and intricacy. Over time, I began introducing loose watercolour elements, allowing for a softer composition. Although my practice has evolved to incorporate more watercolour, inky details remain at the heart of nearly every piece I create.

Original works my be occasionally be for sale, however if you'd like to purchase an original from my portfolio please get in touch if you are interested for availability.

Previous Exhibitions/Events...

- Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Postcard Exhibition, Idle Valley (Shortlisted for People's Choice Award)
- Wide Open Exhibition Thoresby Gallery 
- Christmas Shop Thoresby Gallery
- ‘Wide Open Exhibition’ Thoresby Gallery
- The Christmas Shop Thoresby Courtyard
- "Antlers: From Fairy Tales to the Spirit World." True North Gallery - MA, United States