About the authors
Learn more about the people behind The Library Of Nature
Eleanor Chaney
Artist and creator of The Library Of Nature
Hello everyone! My name is Eleanor and I’m an artist who creates illustrations and papercuts of the natural world which are based upon my collection of antiquarian and vintage natural history books, and the wildlife around me in the Lake District in the UK. You can see more of my work at www.eleanorchaney.com.
I am particularly interested in invertebrates, especially freshwater and marine life in Britain. However, as I am always unable to choose just one subject to learn about, I also research insects (especially beetles and moths), bird life, native British mammals and wildflowers. Added to this I’m inspired by beautiful book covers, star charts and old maps, scientific models and diagrams, vintage dress history and naturalists sketchbooks. I am always looking for new ways to use my illustrations, experimenting with using them to create costumes, build scientific models and create my own books.
My work also explores the history of natural history research, in particular researching and retelling the stories in women who contributed to this, but whose work has gone largely unacknowledged.
I am also an artist educator, and have worked with people of all ages facilitating workshops where people can explore themes of ecology and conservation while developing their own creativity since 2008. I am a trained teacher for people aged 16+ and specialise in working with 5 - 11 year olds in both formal and community arts education. I am also a parent myself who is keen to make creative activities fun, accessible and affordable for families everywhere.
Neil Mather
Technical Advisor
Hello. I’m the tech lead for a UK-based charity since 2017, with a background in software engineering and web development, having worked in these areas for over 10 years since completing my MSc in Evolutionary and Adaptive Systems in 2007. I support The Library Of Nature by offering technical advice and assistance when I’m needed.
When I’m not coding you can find me hiking up a hill or cycling along the Cumbrian coast. While I’m out in nature I’m always pleased to see buzzards circling above, views from the fells and stone walls covered in lichen.
I’m supporting The Library Of Nature because I love where nature overlaps with technology and want to help inspire future generations to enjoy both.