Juliet Thomas is a London based artist / illustrator with a passion for drawing interesting landmarks and quirky characters.

Juliet moved to the leafy, East London neighbourhood of Highams Park in Waltham Forest when her first child was born. She soon set about capturing some of her favourite local architectural delights in the form of pen and ink drawings.

Highams Park Signal Box- Juliet signing prints

Her sketches feature quirky buildings, drawn with a slightly wobbly line, but it’s not just the architecture that captures Juliet’s imagination. It’s the people that make these small businesses so special, the owners and customers, who you’ll see depicted in her drawings, waving, smiling and chatting, creating a charming picture book feel to her artworks.

Friendly neighbourhood vibe: Shopkeeper Abi waving to customers

Juliet says, “I’m super lucky to live in such a friendly community, where you can barely walk 100 metres down the road without stopping to say hello and chat to neighbours.

The local businesses owners really get involved in the community too and contribute to making it such a lovely place to live. I like to try and reflect some of that friendly, neighbourly vibe in my drawings.”

Close up detail of people at the County Arms pub, Highams Park, East London

She starts by taking reference photos or making quick observational sketches and then uses a dipper pen and ink to create the final images. Her art prints are all reproduced onto thick, slightly textured paper, so you feel like you’re getting a page from her sketchbook.

People passing Vinoramica wine bar in Highams Park, East London

Juliet says, “I love it when customers when tell me they’ve spotted a character who resembles themselves or a friend in one of my drawings. It really makes me smile.“

Customers sit outside The Stag and Lantern pub, Highams Park. East London

Juliet’s prints are available online at www.julietthomasdoodles.com/shop Can you see yourself in one of her drawings?