Local illustrator creates bespoke artwork for St Michael’s Mount

One of Cornwall’s most popular visitor destinations has teamed up with a talented local artist to create new original artwork that sits at the heart of the styling of their newly renovated café.

St Michael’s Mount commissioned Cornish illustrator Jennifer Armitage to create a striking new image of the iconic island, employing her trademark abstract and bold technique.

Jennifer, who is based at her studio in rural St Ives, said:

“My illustration reflects how I always have and continue to perceive the Mount as a magical and enchanting Cornish landmark, bursting with life, nature, stories, and beauty. I wanted to capture the magic of the beautiful sub-tropical gardens that adorn the mount. 

“The gardens are such a stunning maze of unique flora and fauna that can usually only be appreciated when on the island itself. However, my abstract style of illustration allowed me to show off some of the beautiful species in the foreground, like the spiral aloe, bird of paradise, agaves, echiums and agapanthus. I also wanted to include the beauty of the iconic winding causeway, ferry boats, and some of the stunning, swooping swallows that come to visit the mount in mid-Summer.”

The Island Café, housed in the former laundry that historically served the island’s residents, has undergone a dramatic makeover over the winter months and recently reopened to visitors.

Paris Taylor, Head of Food & Beverage at St Michael’s Mount said:

“A record number of people visited us last year, so not only has the café enjoyed a stunning refurbishment, which Jennifer’s artwork tops off beautifully, but we’ve updated the layout and how we do things to ensure can serve our guests great food and drink in a timely manner.”

Jennifer’s artwork will also adorn a range of exclusive lifestyle products for the island’s shop.

Shirley Hosking, Head of Retail at St Michael’s Mount said:

“Our guests love to take home something special to remember their visit or gifts for friends and family. Jennifer’s work beautiful illustrations are available in prints, tea towels, cards, coasters, and mugs.

“Nearly 70% of our products, gifts, and food and drink items are created in Cornwall. We are pleased to support so many fantastic local artisans with many based just a stone’s throw from the island.”

For more information, please visit www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk.