Silhouette Portraits by Alison Russell

Last weekend I was asked to exhibit at the fabulous Nonsuch Mansion wedding fair. I had the most amazing day surrounded by fabulous brides and grooms-to-be, and wedding suppliers. I was lucky enough to meet the wonderful Alison Russell who is one of the few remaining silhouette artists in England. Having never experienced this art first-hand before I was amazed by the samples Alison had on display.

Using just scissors and paper Alison cuts out the subject’s portrait in profile in just a few minutes, resulting in a most charming, detailed and highly accurate likeness. So when Alison asked if she could create a silhouette of me of course I jumped at the chance.

Specialist Art

Standing to the side so Alison could see my profile, I asked her how she found she was so good at this very specialist art. Alison explained that she learned how to cut silhouette portraits from her grandmother, Mary-Lou Russell. She was an established painter and silhouette artist for more than 50 years. Alison cut her first silhouette aged just eight years old, and she keenly observed her grandmother’s expert technique, encouraged to develop the skill by practising on friends and family.

Now I am terrible at anything arty, so was in complete awe of Alison as she snipped away creating my silhouette. Within five minutes she created the most delicate and detailed silhouette of my profile, including details of my hair, eyelashes and even the necklace I was wearing.

Hire Alison for Your Wedding

Alison’s silhouette portraits would be a perfect addition to your wedding. Why not hire Alison to create silhouettes of your guests as they sip reception drinks? Guests receive their portrait in a special card that can include specific details of the event, such as the names of the wedding couple, date and venue details, creating a perfectly personalised memento to take home and frame.

If you are looking for unique wedding invitations Alison also offers a commissioned service, so she could create silhouettes of the two of you for your wedding invitations and wedding stationery.

See Alison’s amazing talent for yourself in this video…

To find out more about Alison Russell and to contact her for more information about how she could make your wedding day even more special visit www.alison-russell.co.uk.

“She is astounding, truly fantastic!”
Jonathan Ross