The Impressionists revolutionised the art world by taking their easels outdoors. Now, London-based artist Helena Traill, breathes new life into the plein air tradition with her vibrant oil landscapes, inspired by Monet and Morisot but rooted firmly in the present day.
“Helena Traill’s work is filled with the spirit of place – it is in the moment and of the moment. Luminous and uplifting.” – Kate Kellaway, Observer Critic
Her debut solo exhibition, ‘en plein air,’ runs from 31st January to 9th March 2025 at 28 Flowers Gallery (6 Park Walk) in Chelsea.
“Helena Traill’s work allows us to glimpse how the artist experiences and absorbs the very spirit of the land, finding drama and beauty in familiar places through light, colour, and movement.” – Ashley Gray, Gray M.C.A Director
Trained at Central Saint Martins and the Royal College of Art, Helena merges design precision with a highly personal, instinctual approach to painting. Creativity has been a constant in her life, especially seeking solace through her art during her Father’s terminal illness.
Inspired by her Father’s resilience and creative spirit (both a painter, photographer and innovator), she paints as a way to ground herself, translating fleeting moments into colour, light, and texture. Art helps slow her neurodivergent mind, finding peace and joy in nature’s rhythms. This collection is dedicated to Helena’s Father Philip Traill (1965–2024), who had two cancerous brain tumours (called Oligodendroglioma) for 24 years.
Helena has previously supported The Brain Tumour Charity, during the creation of her book,100 Stories of Cancer, she interviewed high-profile supporters of the charity including Hal Cruttenden, Martino Sclavi and Grace Latter. She has cycled over 100 miles too and is now donating the proceeds of one of her best works: No. 59 I used to come here with my Father, Winkworth.
Helena Traill’s work reflects her neurodivergent perspective, translating landscapes into immersive sensory experiences. Her ‘plein air’ practice focuses on capturing the fleeting beauty of nature, blending spontaneity with refined tonal harmony. The exhibition will feature over 30 original paintings for sale.
Helena said:
“One of the defining aspects of my practice is the curated nature of my ‘plein air’ sessions. Each session is designed to explore multiple facets of the same landscape, from tonal sketches to expressive abstractions. Between August and December 2024, I painted eight sessions across the UK, venturing to the lakes of Cumbria, the coastline of Dorset, and various locations in Surrey. Shifting light, unpredictable weather, and even painting in the rain, cold, or dark constantly challenge me to adapt my practice.”
“These sessions have become more than just artistic practices; they are deeply personal. Since my Father died last year, painting has been an escape for my neurodivergent brain. Painting is a space where I can channel my emotions, focus my energy, and process my thoughts. That is why this collection is dedicated to him. Through this collection, I hope to offer viewers a sense of escape and a new way of seeing the world. For me, colour and how I perceive the world are deeply personal. These paintings are an impressionist’s view that transforms reality into something more emotional.”
Helena’s exhibition, ‘en plein air,’ runs from 31st January to 9th March 2025 at 28 Flowers Gallery (6 Park Walk) in Chelsea.
