About

A world of dreams, glamour, and a smidge of mischief.

I’m Pearl Bates – an award-winning artist and illustrator known for creating bold, magical artwork with a maverick twist. Drawing from 19th-century fairytale illustration and the energy of contemporary cartooning, my work mixes sinuous lines, luminous colour, and stylised characters that feel both glamorous and otherworldly.

For over 30 years, my work has appeared in global exhibitions, editorial projects, animations, live events, and large-scale installations. Today, I focus on creating distinctive, narrative-rich pieces for people who crave something unusual – art that stands apart from the ordinary.

I create illustrated pieces for collectors who value originality and personality:

  • Fine art prints on premium archival papers

  • Distinctive greeting cards that make a statement

  • Limited-edition artworks released in small, carefully curated batches

  • Coming soon: an exclusive membership offering early-access releases, behind-the-scenes peeks, and collectible digital and physical artwork

Every piece is designed to be expressive, dramatic, and unlike anything mass-produced – made for people who take pride in choosing art that reflects their individuality.

I believe art should be a form of self-expression; a way to claim your uniqueness and fill your space with beauty, imagination, and attitude.

I design my products to feel personal, collectible, and magical. Whether you’re curating your home or choosing a gift for someone wonderfully unconventional, my art is made to speak to the people who see the world differently – and who celebrate that difference every day.

Shop prints
Shop cards
  • Rachael Hewer

    Rachael Hewer

    DIRECTOR, VOPERA

    Pearl worked on a global-scale film project for my team at VOPERA and it was clear from the very beginning that she was a consummate professional; dedicated to the artistic integrity of the work and deeply committed to ensuring that her contribution is of the highest standard. She has excellent communication and interpersonal skills as well as a real flare for imagination and attention to detail. I cannot recommend Pearl highly enough.

  • Soozie Campbell

    CHAIR OF BRIGHTON & HOVE TOURISM ALLIANCE

    It was a delight to work with Pearl. She was always quick to grasp the essence of what was required, to follow a brief and deliver on time. She worked extremely hard, often under difficult working conditions (on the streets and in the cold) without complaint and always produced the most delightful pieces. I would recommend her to anyone.

  • Nicola Blackwell

    ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, SLOT MACHINE THEATRE

    Pearl's illustrations for Slot Machine Theatre's Brighton Festival commission The Boy, the Piano and The Beach, delighted adults and children alike. Working with Pearl was a wonderful experience, and she brought exacting professionalism, rigour and flair to the project. We can't wait to work with her again.

  • John Cleese

    ACTOR & WRITER

    Some of the most extraordinary work I've seen.

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