On a crisp but beautifully sunny winter’s morning, I headed down to Brockley Christmas Market to set up my illustration stall. There’s something special about market days — the early start, the quiet build-up, and the gentle buzz as traders arrive and prepare for a busy day ahead.
This year, I was especially pleased with my pitch, positioned just outside Brocca Café, a much-loved Brockley favourite and the perfect spot for a festive market filled with local visitors and familiar faces from across South East London.
I carefully laid out a selection of illustration prints inspired by Brockley and the surrounding area. From much-loved local cafés and pubs to the Brockley Post Office, the collection celebrated the everyday landmarks that make this neighbourhood feel like home.
Alongside these were my illustrated maps of Brockley, Deptford and Peckham — detailed, hand-drawn pieces that often spark conversations and shared memories among visitors. These South East London illustrated maps are always popular with locals and make thoughtful gifts for anyone with a connection to the area.
The day got off to a great start when my very first customer picked up a condiment print along with a pub illustration, setting a positive tone early on. Before long, the stall became wonderfully busy. I was genuinely surprised — and very grateful — for the level of interest in my work.
Many visitors were drawn to familiar Brockley landmarks, while others chose Christmas cards and my 2026 Museum & Gallery Calendar as festive gifts. It was encouraging to see such strong support for independent illustrators and local makers at the market.
One of the real highlights of the day was talking to people about my illustration practice. As a long-time Brockley resident myself, it was lovely to share stories about the area and hear customers’ own connections to the places I’ve illustrated.
Several people suggested ideas for future prints — from new Brockley locations to other South East London neighbourhoods — which I’ve made notes on for future additions to my online shop.
Selling Out of Prints (A Very Good Problem)
As the afternoon went on, I realised I was selling out of some of the most popular prints. Luckily, my partner Katie was lending a hand on the stall and heroically dashed back to collect more stock from near our home.
In the meantime, I stayed busy selling illustration prints continuously from 11am through to 6pm, with barely a quiet moment in between.
When I found a brief moment to step away, I took a walk through the market to soak up the atmosphere. With carol singers, a lively crowd, and an inspiring mix of creative traders, Brockley Christmas Market had a wonderfully festive feel.
Friends stopped by to say hello, and I was especially pleased that my mum and dad came to visit the stall — a moment that made the day even more meaningful.
Looking Ahead to More Illustration Markets in 2026
By the end of the day, I was surprised by how much I’d sold, but even more so by the number of wonderful people I met and spoke to. The kind comments about my work meant a great deal, particularly as I hadn’t taken part in a market for quite a few years.
The experience has definitely reignited something for me. I’m planning to apply for more craft and illustration markets in 2026, and this could well become a new side venture.
If you’re looking for illustrated maps of Brockley, Deptford or Peckham — or unique South East London illustration prints — you can explore my latest work in the online shop.