I’m Sarah Cox, the artist behind BEASTIES. After spending 28 years in a finance office—a job I hated and wasn’t particularly good at—I was made redundant in February. That moment became a turning point in my life. I decided to pursue something I’ve always been passionate about: art.
My love for drawing and painting has been a constant throughout my life, and with the encouragement of family and friends, I’ve transformed it into a full-time pursuit. Now, I create original artworks, ranging from large-scale murals to intricate A4 pieces, all infused with a unique Steampunk and Gothic flair.
My career shift wasn’t just about leaving a job I disliked; it was about finally embracing what I’m good at and what brings me joy. Painting is more than a hobby—it’s a calming, absorbing process that allows me to express my creativity and share it with others. Every piece I create is a reflection of my passion and individuality.
I began by painting a massive mural of my Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Mole, on my house wall. Mole, of course, became a Steampunk version of himself, complete with a top hat and goggles! Encouraged by how well it turned out, I moved on to a dragon across my dad’s double garage and a werewolf skull on another wall of my home. These projects helped me realise the potential of my work and pushed me to explore new themes.
I’ve since transitioned into smaller pieces, focusing on sugar skulls, mandalas, and dot work on black backdrops. These intricate designs, inspired by Gothic and Steampunk aesthetics, are perfect for framing or scaling up into larger murals.
I work from home and welcome commissions of all sizes, from A4 originals to full-scale wall murals. My style leans towards off-key caricatures rather than exact portraits, with a focus on animals and dark, whimsical themes. Whether it’s a quirky sugar skull dog or a Steampunk-inspired dragon, I create pieces that are as unique as the people who commission them.
While I’ve enjoyed showcasing my work at local craft markets and running a stall at an indoor market in my town, I’m keen to expand my audience. BESATIES is about more than just selling art—it’s about connecting with people who appreciate the blend of darkness and cuteness that defines my style.
If you’re looking for something truly original and personal, I’d love to create it for you. Let’s turn your ideas into art that’s bold, whimsical, and entirely unique.