Illustration work by Ellis Darke (illustrating under the pseudonym 'Jay Addley') showing a layered portrait.

I am an independent comics creator and illustrator, who focuses on unconventional representation of LGBTQ+ issues and characters using genre storytelling. My work is orientated around creating mood through tone and layering, proficiently combining both digital and analogue tools to create my illustrations. I have been featured in three exhibitions, including ‘Re-Connect’, an online exhibit showcasing undergraduates from Kyoto and Norwich, and I was also a contributing comics artist to Emily Foster’s ‘Queer Life Zine’.

Distorted digital self portrait Illustration work by Ellis Darke (illustrating under the pseudonym 'Jay Addley') showing a layered portrait.

I am able to approach diverse briefs from my unusual perspective, keeping a keen eye for detail while adhering to tight deadlines. Sequential illustration has been the primary focus of my practice for multiple years now and I am interested in both consuming and creating thoughtful comics with exciting narratives. I am also currently exploring both the editorial and book cover design avenues of my dreamlike portraiture work.

A Dreamy Queer Glamour Noir portrait Illustration work by Ellis Darke (illustrating under the pseudonym 'Jay Addley') showing a layered portrait.
A queer horror comic book cover with a Werewolf genre trope exploring aspects of LGBTQ+ lives.
Illustration work by Ellis Darke (illustrating under the pseudonym 'Jay Addley') showing page 1 of a queer horror comic book with a Werewolf genre trope exploring aspects of LGBTQ+ lives.