Emily Redfearn's vibrant, hand-painted tote bags to raise money for charity

Sheffield-based illustrator, animator, and designer, Emily Redfearn, has created a charming series of vibrant, hand-painted tote bags to sell through her online shop. Proceeds from the sales will go toward supporting the NHS and local hospice, St Luke's.

This meaningful project began during the early days of the pandemic when Emily’s grandad sadly passed away from cancer. Determined to turn her grief into something positive, she decided to give back to those who cared for him during his final days. Emily poured her creative energy into designing tote bags with bright, positive illustrations, hoping to "bring a bit of brightness to a dark time". So far, she has sold seven bags, raising more than £200 for charity, with just a few remaining in her online shop.

Emily's transition to freelance work also came during lockdown, after her new job fell through. Yet, she adapted swiftly, and today, she works with a variety of clients including The Leadmill, Cathedral Archer Project, Printed By Us, and The Scout Association.

Beyond this charitable initiative, Emily’s work is widely recognised for its bold, quirky style. Her illustrations and animations are known for their bright colours, bold shapes, and characterful designs, often personifying inanimate objects with playful charm. Her artistic process spans digital tools, marker pens, and paints, showcasing her versatility and creativity. Emily also incorporates hand-drawn lettering in her work, adding a unique touch to her vibrant designs. She draws inspiration from her surroundings, and even her dachshund-poodle, Ernie, plays a role in her creative life.

To discover more of Emily's work or grab one of the last remaining tote bags to support the NHS and St Luke's Hospice, visit emilyredfearn.co.uk.