In a world awash with mass-produced art, illo.roo, a UK-based mixed media artist, offers joyfully vibrant, bespoke creations that celebrate personal stories, intimate stories and cherished memories.
Meet the Artist Behind illo.roo
Ruth, affectionately nicknamed among her university circle as one of the “illo girls”, brings an illustrative spirit to her work. Since transitioning from illustration studies, she’s embraced acrylic and mixed media to create bright, expressive art that resonated both emotionally and visually.
“As an artist, I’ve always been fascinated how spaces hold memories — the kind of subtle, yet significant moments that happen in rooms or at tables, often overlooked at the time but fondly remembered after the event” said Ruth Lapka “I am working on a new series of paintings that aim to evoke individuals’ personal memories of a place.”
Signature Style & Themes
Illo.roo’s work thrives on familiar, heart-warming motifs, tablescapes, cosy interiors, street windows, delightful café scenes, and even whimsical cats. Texture-rich, colourful, and vivid, each piece evokes a sense of place, memory, and joy.
“I’m eager to explore how different settings can evoke different emotions — a quiet corner of a hotel lobby, the elegance of a well-set dinner table, or the coziness of a guest room at dusk. These pieces won’t just be representations of places; they’ll be an invitation to relive the atmosphere and feeling of those spaces.” Says Ruth.
Guests could take a moment to appreciate the beauty of a space through art, and share that moment with someone else. Imagine a guest sending a postcard of the cozy, candle-lit dinner table where they had eaten the night before or the chair with the beautifully patterned cushion where they sat to look at the view from their hotel room, just letting a friend know, “This is what made my time here unforgettable.” It’s a beautiful way to slow down, appreciate the small details, and reconnect with the experience in a more tactile, heartfelt way.
Bespoke Venue Commissions
One of the standout offerings is her bespoke venue painting. Custom pieces capturing the charm and energy of bars, cafes, bedrooms, or restaurants that hold meaning.
With weddings, she similarly memorialises the essence of the day. From the florals and décor to the little moments that dance in the paint. Each keepsake is personal, unwaveringly crafted, and perfect as an anniversary gift.
Accessible Prints & Originals
For those who love colour and charm but may not commission a custom piece, illo.roo offers an array of affordable bold, colourful prints meant to bring warmth into any home. Originals, vibrant, one-of-a-kind acrylic and mixed media painting are also available in her online shop.
Connect & Support
Illo.roo’s website invites you to explore categories like Original Artworks, Wedding & Venue Keepsakes, and Art Prints. Interested collectors or clients can reach out via a contact form or direct message on Instagram.
Why illo.roo Resonates
Emotional depth in everyday scenes
The art taps into nostalgia and atmosphere, coffee mornings, candlelit dinners, or quiet Sunday afternoons.
Vibrant, tactile aesthetics
The combination of acrylic textures and bright hues spark joy and visually uplifting energy.
Perfectly personal touches
Whether commemorating a wedding venue or adorning your living room with prints, everything feels uniquely tailored.
Illo.roo is more than just pretty paintings. It is a heartfelt attempt to preserve what makes life meaningful. Connections, places and celebrations through vivid, joyful artistry. Whether you would like a personal keepsake or a vibrant print to brighten your home, Ruth’s work warms the heart and nurtures the soul.
Reach out for bespoke commissions or wedding venue art. It’s the ideal personal gift that lasts a lifetime.