If you’ve ever wondered who’s behind the brush at Live Artist Collective, meet Poppy Ridsdill — our CEO, lead artist, and creative force of nature. With a paintbrush in one hand and a glass of champagne in the other, Poppy brings energy, warmth, and over two decades of experience to every canvas.
We sat down with her (between weddings!) to ask all the juicy questions about her journey, her quirks, and what it’s really like painting live at events.
So, when did it all start?
“I’ve pretty much been painting my whole life,” says Poppy. “I started formal art classes around age 9, then studied Fine Art in college and Illustration at university. It was never a question of if I’d be an artist — just what kind.”
And the kind she became is one who paints love stories live, right in the middle of the celebration.
What’s your favourite part of painting live at events?
“Honestly? I get paid to paint, drink champagne, and listen to great tunes. What’s not to love?” she laughs. “But seriously, it’s being part of the moment without being in the moment. I’m observing, capturing, preserving — it’s a real honour.”
You can see her portfolio and learn more about Poppy’s style on her artist profile.
What’s your go-to food at weddings?
“I’m vegetarian, so I usually end up with a plate of veggies — which, to be honest, can be a bit boring,” Poppy laughs. “But I always love the dinner at Gabbinbar. They nail it every time. If there’s a glass of champagne or an Aperol spritz to go with it, even better. And if I’m really tired, I’ll go for an espresso martini — but usually, it’s just champagne all the way!”
Music makes the moment — what are your faves?
“I know it’s cheesy, but I’m always partial to Ceiling Can’t Hold Us by Macklemore. Total crowd pleaser. I love when the DJ has more of an Ibiza vibe, or there’s a funky live band. But if I hear Nutbush or All of Me again… nope. I can’t do it.”
What’s been your most memorable live painting moment?
“There was one wedding where my flight got delayed, I missed the ceremony, had no canvas, and nothing to wear because my luggage was lost. Luckily, I had amazing contacts on the ground who grabbed everything I needed while I was in the air. That one was… wild.”
She’s also painted in the rain (“the paint literally washed off”), in freezing weather where she couldn’t feel her fingers, and once forgot her paint entirely.
“It’s not always glamorous,” she admits. “But it’s always worth it.”
Any funny or awkward guest moments?
“Ohhh yes. I don’t love touchy guests. People sneak up behind me while I’m painting, put their arms around me… One older man came up and rubbed my ear and said ‘well done’ — it was weird. Like, please respect the bubble!”
What moment do you love painting most?
“I love that split-second just before the kiss. Their faces are close, maybe they’re smiling or laughing — it’s such a tender, natural moment. That’s the magic I want to capture.”
Any dream destinations?
“I’d love to paint in the Maldives or Sri Lanka… somewhere tropical and beautiful where I can mix work with a bit of travel. I’m manifesting that one.”
What colours and tools can’t you live without?
“White. Always white. But mostly I stick to red, blue, yellow, brown, and black. You can make just about anything from those. And my paint — I always travel with it. I can get by with whatever brushes and canvas, but I’m particular about paint brands.”
Do you have a pre-event ritual?
“I arrive, film a little wave to the camera, prep my canvas, and walk around the venue to figure out my angle. Then at canapés, I pour a glass of champagne, and I’m off. I don’t usually start painting until I’ve seen the ceremony — that gives me the moment I need.”
If you weren’t a painter, what would you be?
“Poor,” she jokes. “But seriously — I’d still be some kind of artist. I’ve never done anything else.”
Any artists you’d love to work with?
“I’m not really into the whole highbrow art scene. But I’d love to work alongside live painters like Maggie Smith Kuhn — she was the first live painter I ever came across. And Scott Nagy, a mural artist from Sydney, is incredible. I’d love to watch him work.”
You can see more of Poppy’s day-to-day life and live events on her personal art page: @iampoppydesigns
Final thoughts?
“People don’t realise — live painting isn’t that stressful in the moment. I’m in my zone. Sure, I’ve heard the same jokes a million times (‘Don’t draw me, I’m a stick figure!’ — that one, again?). But I’m just vibing, painting, and soaking up the atmosphere. Every wedding is different, and I get to create something that’ll last forever. That’s pretty special.”
Want Poppy to paint at your wedding or event?
Get in touch with us today — but be quick. Her calendar fills fast.
Meet Poppy here or follow her on Instagram for more behind-the-scenes moments.
