About Me

I’m a 19-year-old artist living and working in Devon, inspired by the landscapes, people and beautiful places around me.

Over the past few years, I’ve been honing my skills and developing my own style, particularly through my love of oil pastel. A lot of my work is almost entirely inspired by the outdoors — from Dartmoor and wild swimming to walking, nature and the people who make these places special.

In 2025, I was lucky enough to be awarded a scholarship from Salcombe Art Club, which helped support my practice and gave me the opportunity to continue developing as an artist.

Earlier this year, I completed my Art Foundation Diploma and recieved a Distinction. I decided not to go on to university, choosing instead to take a chance on myself and try to build a life and career from my art.

I have big dreams for where this could take me. One of my ambitions is to travel the world, exchanging my artwork for accommodation along the way. I’d love to experience new places, meet new people, find inspiration in different landscapes and keep making art as I go.

Although my artwork has prices, I’m also very open to exchanging art for experiences. If you have an interesting opportunity, place to stay, adventure, creative course or experience that you think could be a good exchange for my artwork, I’d love to hear from you. I’m much more interested in the possibilities that art can create than simply putting a price on everything.

For me, being an artist is about more than just making pictures. I want to create a life that combines art, adventure and community, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.

This website is a place to share that journey — from the artwork I’m making here in Devon to wherever my art takes me next.

Laylamahoodart@gmail.com
instagram: _layla_art_