UKLASH Live Illustrations for the National Television Awards
Live fashion illustration for a beauty brand talent event
Ahead of the 2026 National Television Awards, UKLASH commissioned Sonya Parra to create live watercolour fashion and beauty portraits for guests attending a private talent event at the InterContinental London.
The event brought together UKLASH talent and guests before they headed to the awards at The O2, with Sonya creating individual fashion illustrations as keepsakes from the evening.
Guests Included
love Island Winners; Andelista Gundax & Simba-Kudyiwa
Lottie Tomlinson, Olivia Bentley, Megan Mckenna, Emily Faye Miller, Miriam Musa, Nella Rose, Lily Benson, Mariah Idrissi, and Make Up artist Katie Daisy
The Brief
UKLASH wanted a live illustrator to create portraits for guests during a two-hour pre-awards session.
Guests were dressed for the National Television Awards in gowns and black tie, while the hotel suite was styled around a sophisticated neutral palette.
Sonya was commissioned to capture guests in their event looks, creating personalised portraits during the reception.
Live Fashion and Beauty Portrait Illustration
Working directly from the guests, Sonya created quick, expressive fashion portraits designed to capture both the individual and the occasion.
The illustrations were produced live during the event, giving guests the opportunity to watch their portrait being created and take home an original artwork as a personal keepsake.
Live illustration works particularly well within beauty, fashion and influencer events because the artwork becomes part of the guest experience rather than simply an entertainment element.
UKLASH talent
The event included a range of UKLASH talent and guests, with individual portraits created throughout the session.
Capturing the moment
With celebrities moving between hair and makeup, styling and photoshoots, there was very little time to capture each guest. Working at pace, I created quick-fire fashion sketches and portraits, capturing their outfits, individual style and personality in just moments. It was all about responding to the energy of the event and making every illustration count, even when I only had seconds with each guest.
A live beauty brand activation in London
For a beauty brand such as UKLASH, live portrait illustration provides a natural connection between personal style, beauty and the guest experience.
Each portrait responds to the individual guest and their styling on the day, making the artwork personal while creating an engaging live experience within the brand environment.
Sonya provides live fashion illustration for luxury brands, beauty companies, influencer events, PR events and private brand activations across London and the UK.
The result
UKLASH guests received individually drawn portraits created during the pre-awards event, providing a personalised keepsake from their National Television Awards experience.
The commission combined live fashion illustration with a beauty brand's talent and influencer event, creating an intimate and highly personal guest experience within the hotel setting.
Frequently asked questions
Can a live illustrator work at a beauty brand event?
Yes. Live illustration can be incorporated into beauty launches, influencer events, PR receptions, brand activations and private talent events.
Can you draw guests at influencer events?
Yes. Sonya creates live fashion portraits for guests at influencer, celebrity, PR and brand events, working directly from guests during the event.
How long does a live portrait take?
Depending on the level of detail and the format chosen, Sonya can create quick guest portraits in approximately 5–10 minutes.
Can live illustration be used as a branded event experience?
Yes. Live illustration can provide guests with a personalised keepsake while also creating an engaging activity within the brand environment.
Do you provide live illustration for London events?
Yes. Sonya is Leicester-based and regularly works at events in London and throughout the UK, with international commissions also available.
Can you illustrate guests in their event outfits?
Yes. Fashion and event styling can be incorporated into the portrait, from evening gowns and black tie to fashion, beauty and branded looks.
Planning a Live Illustration Experience?
Tell me about your event, your guests and what you'd like to create.
I'll recommend the most suitable format for your occasion.
Last updated: 12 November 2026
Get In Touch
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+44 7495985164