Nellie Crane is the collaborative works of artistic duo Nellie Shepherd and Barbara Crane. Both artists work on the same painting creating together as if they were one. Following their experiences on the Brison Veor residency, which gave them an opportunity to truly experience Cornwall, they created their first ‘solo’ show in Cornwall in 2024 titled “The Land Rose up to meet us." They have exhibited at The Silson Contemporary Gallery, The Society Of St Ives Open, The Tarpey Gallery Open 24, Chelsea Society Of Arts Open 24 and at Bullclough Gallery. They also teach together masterclasses in Contemporary Landscape and Still life at The Bullclough Art School, where they share a studio within the Peak District.

“We find it makes more sense to have four hands, two minds and four eyes!”

Nellie Shepherd is a trained fine artist, actor and published author of seven books focusing on children’s creativity (DK/Penguin).  She previously lived in London where she was renowned for creating extravagant art events with clients including Madonna, J K Rowling and Angeline Jolie.  Since moving to the Peak District, Nellie set up Bullclough Art School where she continues to develop her artistic vision, whilst currently writing a series of Contemporary Art Books.

I love constantly evolving as an artist and experimenting with new ways to create and express myself. 

At present I am moving toward Abstraction. For me art is a journey and I am now enjoying it as I go along, not really worrying about what the art looks like and allowing it to be a more organic process . I love my painting collaboration with friend Barbara Crane. I love sharing in life, so it makes sense that I love sharing mark making too!

Barbara Crane is a self-taught artist, based in Derbyshire.

I try to express my sensory response to the natural environment through mixed media and construction. Painting and drawing are not choices for me. I have to represent what I see and feel. For the past few years, I have been involved in a collaboration with Nellie which has allowed me to explore the synergy that comes from the collision of different sensibilities.