Emily tellwright
I’m Emily Tellwright and I run Castle Sefton Press, publishing books and selling art created by myself and my partner John Blake. We produce paperback and ebooks, art prints, cards, homeware and accessories featuring our work. You will find some of original artworks for sale in the shop too.
A bit about me
I write literary fiction. For me that’s stylish writing based on ideas and characters that still has a great, readable, entertaining story. In my case there is usually humour and mystery involved too!
My books are positive (but not cosy – there is some sex and strong language in real life after all) as I see life as a constant process of learning and expansion and of experiences from which we can grow.
I particularly love exploring the mysteries of time. Have we forgotten or misremembered history? What might we learn from it, especially about who we think we are? To me, the past also seems valuable because it is only by synthesising the best of old knowledge with the best new ideas that we can create healthy and fulfilling lives.
I strive to combine crafted use of language, sophiscated ideas, strong characters, humour, fantasy and mystery to make memorable and intriguing stories.
In art, I work mainly in pastel, chalk, charcoal, coloured pencil and acrylics at present. I like ceramics, printing and oils too when I have the facilities. Although I love a wide range of artistic styles, my own drawings and paintings are mainly from life as that is what I do best. It’s another way of expressing something about the world around you.
History
I was born in Stoke-on-Trent, UK and came back to live here about twenty years ago. In between, I had studied mathematics at Oxford, science, society and technology at East London, and cello in Cardiff and worked as a bookseller, an accountant, a musician and a tutor. I also spent many years as a carer.
Things I like to explore in my work
In my writing, and in my life, I’m interested in hidden patterns and assumptions that shape how we live. I’m particularly fascinated by how they change over time, establishing new norms and leaving many old habits – both good and bad – forgotten in their wake. How do they affect our sense of purpose and of identity? We feel we are part of a culture of some sort, but do we know what it is?
I also love the great fun of being human: all the emotions you can feel, the work you can do, the pastimes you can engage with, using your body and developing your heart, mind and spirit.
Hobbies
I enjoy books, cooking, the garden, knitting, music, old films, daily exercise, dancing, camping holidays and many other things. When I’m not writing or running Castle Sefton Press I’m usually busy on my artwork.
Art
Much as I love writing fiction, I could not just do that. After a time of reading, writing or studying I always crave doing something creative with my hands in the same way that you might crave a kind of food that your body needs. The combination of writing fiction, creating art and running the business the perfect balance for me when combined with a bit of exercise and occasional music.
Find Out More
If you’re interested, I’ve written more extensively about my work in two articles, one about my writing style and one about my art practice. Or you can take a look at my work in the shop.