About
George Townley
(b. 1996 - Blackpool)
Iโm a London-based illustrator known for nostalgic depictions of iconic architecture and landmarks. My work has been exhibited in six solo shows across Los Angeles, and Iโve been lucky enough to curate an LA-themed group exhibition featuring emerging artists. My illustrations have also been published in a dedicated art book.
Growing up in the north of England, drawing became my escape. Living in California during university reshaped my work entirely, trading grey skies for palm trees and sun-kissed streets, which pushed my work in a much more colourful and bold direction.
Outside of illustration, I enjoy making tiki-inspired cocktails, exploring Londonโs incredible pubs and hanging out with my pet parrot, Cody.
Made by Hand
Each piece is digitally illustrated by hand, no AI, no automation. Prints are produced using museum-grade papers and archival inks.
Collectors are drawn to the warmth and escapism in my work, bringing a touch of golden hour into their space, wherever they are in the world.
Artist FAQ
Whatโs your process and medium?
I work digitally, and each print begins with research and a hand-drawn sketch. I then do a quick colour study to capture the mood, before illustrating the piece in Photoshop, layer by layer, refining every detail as carefully as possible.
As Iโm a perfectionist, working digitally allows me to achieve the exact result I want, with every line, shape and colour carefully considered and intentional.
Why Los Angeles?
Probably the most common question I get, and I can never quite pinpoint the exact reason, but I think it comes from the fact I grew up in a small town in the North of England. The North is known for being quite grey and rainy, so I used my illustration as a form of escapism, a way to escape to blue skies, sun-kissed pavements and palm-lined streets.
I also loved classic Hollywood movies growing up, so it made sense I would gravitate towards this city.
Do you visit the landmarks you illustrate?
As Iโm based in the UK, itโs difficult for me to visit every place I draw. Whenever Iโm in LA, I try to take as many reference photos as I can to last me until my next visit. If itโs somewhere I havenโt been able to see in person, I typically use Google Maps or other similar references.
Google Maps also has an incredible feature where you can go back in time, which I use a lot to find the perfect lighting and angles I might not otherwise see.
Whenโs your next in-person show in LA?
I typically do solo shows about once a year, however with the recent closure of Gallery1988 my shows have yet to find a home. Iโm working hard behind the scenes to figure something out and should be back as soon as possible.
I really miss meeting everyone in person, itโs genuinely my favourite part of what I do. I wonโt be away for long.
Can I suggest a landmark?
I always welcome suggestions, however I have an ever-growing list so I canโt promise Iโll get to everything.
If itโs a niche building youโd like fast-tracked, there is also the option of a custom commission, feel free to reach out through my form and we can try to work something out together.
Do you use AI?
No, every piece is created digitally by hand. I spend hours researching Los Angeles architecture and history, then carefully draw each illustration in Photoshop. Itโs a process rooted in passion, not automation.
