Welcome to Erlenmeyer
“A world of sentient animals living in harmony in the far future. Amongst these pages lie illustrations of its many characters and histories!
I am McAllister, a vivacious and somewhat eccentric immortal raccoon. I am also a long-standing friend of Avi the human, who you may meet at market.
Together we are creating an encyclopaedia all about Erlenmeyer, but Avi is not the fastest writer (and I am not the most orderly orator) so whilst this guide is being created, please entertain yourselves with the other tidbits about our world!”
About the Illustrator
Stephanie Avila Gray
I am a Bristol-based illustrator specialising in fine ink pen and watercolour paintings. I currently run my own business creating designs and products for my stationery and giftware brand, Erlenmeyer, the illustrations for which centre around a storytelling animal kingdom. You can find me most Sundays at the Tobacco Factory markets in Southville!
Since a very young age I have always loved reading and exploring imaginary worlds. I am particularly intrigued by societal structures and politics, and my goal with Erlenmeyer is to create an ideological context within which I can write children’s books that explore the value of living ethically and inclusively with others. This is my primary project for 2024.
I enjoy creating highly detailed scenes which are centred around my characters, music and the urban environment. I like to create faithful recreations of recognisable things to achieve maximum engagement with the audience. It is my mission to make it the most uplifting, romantic, humorous and passionate version of the truth that I can, with a touch of nostalgia thrown into the mix.
I have been selling my illustrations and products since 2014 and was a resident at Australia’s iconic Rocks Market for many years, developing a loyal customer base and social media following. After several years of trade shows in Sydney and London, our designs can now be found in more than 80 shops worldwide. Our Australian stockists include Dymocks Books, Berkelouw Books & Harry Hartog.
In 2020 I co-established a new business called the Artisans’ Nest, which is a handmade collective retail venture that aimed to provide a selling platform for Sydney’s local designers and makers. Artisans’ Nest has been set up to help the creative community to regain some of the sales, exposure and business momentum lost due to Covid-19, as well as to provide a social support network for local makers.
Contact Avi
For collaborations, exhibitions, interviews, purchasing enquiries
Tel: 07869 259 106 // Email: erlenmeyerart@gmail.com
