“Art in the time of Corona” – a community led project that aims to share stories and create personal pieces of art.
During difficult times such as these, it is more important than ever to engage deeply with those around us; to put ourselves out there; to look out for others and make sure that they feel loved and not forgotten. Although this cannot currently be done physically it can still be done virtually through the incredible outlet of social media.
A lot of my work is based on engaging with the public through the commissioning process. Commissioning a piece of art is a very personal journey, not only do I begin to build up a relationship with my clients, but I get to know the story behind each potential piece. All art has its own story, its own tale to tell. Each drawing represents a memory or place, it could be a representation of a special day, or it could be to celebrate the life of a loved one who is no longer with us. These drawings can make a client laugh, or cry but most of all they are a celebration of someone or something special that the client wants to remember in a certain way, something to hold on to and treasure.
I would therefore like to spread some positivity and love and reach out to my lovely followers through my social media platforms, and ask you to share personal stories and photos of people, places and pets that are or were special to you; who or what would you love to immortalise in a piece of art and why? These stories can be funny, sad, or thought provoking. It will be an outlet for all to engage and share personal journeys and memories, over the coming weeks.
From this pool of stories and photos a selection will be chosen, displaying a range of different subjects, and from these images I will create a small body of bespoke, detailed drawings commissioned by members of the public. These drawings will be done free of charge (Some small costs may occur re postage or framing). These drawings will be completed over the next 5-6 months.
If you would like to be in with a chance to receive a gift of personalised art, please get in touch here or through Facebook!
The final selection of stories and images will be shared and featured on my social media pages.
Thank you all!


I would love you to draw a picture of baby Sean Glynn born 8/6 to Kevin & Ciara who you drew a beautiful piece from their wedding picture two years ago. Sean is a beautiful start to their family & a much cherished addition to the extended (small) family. Would love to add to their Gilly Cullen art with another of their beautiful baby. Jean
Thank you Jean! Your lovely idea has been submitted!
Hi Gilly,
I love your drawings and I think it would be amazing to have a drawing of my 83 year old mother Elizabeth who has been happily cocooned since the covid crisis began. She loves to potter about in her garden every day and talk to her family and friends via video calls on the computer. A great way to stay positive during Covid.
Thank you Mary! Your lovely idea has been submitted! If you have a photo that you like please feel free to email it to me at cullengilly@yahoo.ie Thank you!
Hi Gilly,
My now five month old son was born just before lockdown. We never got our new born photo shoot done so would love something to mark his entrance into the world! I would love to be able to look at a drawing and remember that this pandemic was a time full of joy, happiness and love for our growing family!
Hi Amy, congratulations on the birth of your son! Thank you for your submission. Please feel free to send a favourite image of your son to me at cullengilly@yahoo.ie Best wishes and take care, Gilly.