Discovering the Hidden Eyecatcher at Lilleshall Hall
A line and wash original by LeeBB Art
When I go out exploring the local area, I never quite know what I’ll find. Back in August 2024, on a warm but cloudy morning, I wandered through the grounds of Lilleshall Hall searching for inspiration. The grand hall itself is impressive, of course, but what caught me by surprise was something tucked away among the trees — the Eyecatcher.
I hadn’t expected to stumble across it at all. In fact, there was a wedding taking place in the distance, and the atmosphere was already alive with celebration. But then I turned a corner, and there it was. My first reaction? Oh wow. I felt a spark of excitement, the thrill of discovering something unexpected and a little out of the ordinary.
Capturing the Eyecatcher
Instead of painting the hall — which felt too obvious a choice — I decided the Eyecatcher was far more intriguing. It’s a solitary structure, a touch weathered with age, and set against a backdrop of tall trees. I knew straight away I wanted to capture it in my own style.
Ink Sketch
Ink sketch used to plan proportions and perspective
Back in the studio, I worked from the photos I’d taken on site. I began with a pencil sketch to get the proportions and perspective just right. Symmetry was important, but the Eyecatcher’s weathering gave me some creative freedom. Once I was happy with the lines, I went over the sketch with waterproof fineliners, then gradually built up the watercolour washes. Layer by layer, the piece started to take shape — until the final dark values added depth and brought the Eyecatcher to life.
I chose line and wash for this piece because, at the time, I was really enjoying the process. There’s something about the combination of precise ink work with the looseness of watercolour that feels both controlled and free.
A Few Artistic Choices
In my reference photos, the Eyecatcher sat against a wall of dense trees. Beautiful, but a little flat on paper. So I made one small adjustment — I opened up the background to allow a glimpse of sky. That simple change created contrast and interest, helping the structure stand proud rather than being swallowed by darkness.
More Than Just a Hall
What I love about the Eyecatcher is that it’s not the “main event.” It’s not the grand hall that everyone photographs; it’s a tucked-away gem that you might miss if you weren’t looking. That’s what makes it special to me.
Eyecatcher - Lilleshall Hall
Just one of the many reference photos I took while exploring the grounds at Lilleshall Hall.
I hope that when people see my painting, they feel that same sense of curiosity — that they’ll think that’s interesting, and maybe even want to go and discover it for themselves.
A One-Off Original
Eyecatcher – Lilleshall Hall is a one-off original line and wash painting on Arches 300GSM rough watercolour paper, measuring 26 cm × 36 cm. This piece is truly unique and stands apart from my usual wildlife and landscape work, making it a special addition for collectors interested in architectural and hidden-gem subjects.
Eyecatcher at Lilleshall Hall
Adding a beautiful frame really adds to the piece.
If you’re interested in owning this original artwork, you can find it in my shop.
Closing Thoughts
Sometimes, the best inspiration comes not from what you set out to find, but from the hidden treasures waiting just off the beaten path.
The Eyecatcher at Lilleshall Hall is a single, solitary structure with a simple but powerful purpose: to catch the eye. Standing among tall trees, it feels both intentional and organic, part of the landscape yet set apart.
For me, painting it was about more than stone and ink — it was about celebrating those quiet encounters where history, nature, and art meet.
Interested in Owning the Original?
Eyecatcher – Lilleshall Hall is a one-off original, and this unique piece could be yours.
If you’d like to add it to your collection or find out more, visit my shop or get in touch directly. Discover a hidden gem of Shropshire and bring a piece of its history into your home.
