Elfenn Manrot, illustrator

How would you describe your work?

I create illustrations mainly from photographs and using software such as Photoshop. I "cut" them, assemble them, add textures and colour them. My favourite subjects are Montreal and animals!

As a craftsman, what do you get out of being part of the cooperative?

Originally from France, I arrived in Quebec in 2014 and had no knowledge of craftsmanship when I started marketing my creations. Integrating L'Empreinte was therefore a huge opportunity for me, it allowed me to find a "family", to connect to the world of crafts but also to Quebec in the end. I discovered the pleasure and pride that comes from consuming "locally" and the importance of giving value to what we produce ourselves. Sharing this with our customers who come from all over the world and discover our boutique is invaluable!

Do you have a memory or a memorable moment related to the cooperative that you would like to share with us?

The memory that struck me the most is without a doubt the day I came to present my products to become a member at a general meeting in June 2016. I didn't know anyone at all and I arrived with only a few postcards because it had only been a few months since I had started. I was super impressed but everyone was nice and encouraging and I said to myself when I left that even if I wasn't taken, it had been a good experience. To my delight, I found out the next day that I was taken! I already knew that this was the beginning of a great adventure...

Find all of Elfenn's creations in our boutique nestled in the heart of old Montreal or on our online store.