We are delighted to welcome Ella Carroll, affectionately known as Beany, as our Artist-in-Residence for September 2025 at Studio 88 Artist Residency. Beany is a multidisciplinary artist and curator based in Melbourne, Australia, whose whimsical, colourful, and cosy work invites viewers into a dreamlike world of imagination and joy.
Beany’s art revolves around her signature character, “Beany” the rabbit, first imagined in a 2014 diary entry. Through Beany, she captures the beauty of everyday moments—whether it’s changing your sheets or walking to the shops for milk and eggs. Her work celebrates the magic hidden in ordinary life and encourages mindfulness and wonder in the simplest acts.
Working across acrylic, sculpture, digital design, metalwork, furniture, soldered jewellery, resin figurines, and textiles, Beany seamlessly blends digital and traditional mediums to create immersive and tactile experiences. “Art is my lifeline,” she says. “Without it, my world feels bland and uninspired. I want to enjoy the process, make mistakes, and play—without distraction.”
Although Beany has been painting all her life, her professional practice took flight in 2019 after a transformative holiday to Japan. Since then, she has expanded her practice from personal commissions to curating large-scale exhibitions, designing company logos, store fitouts, murals, event posters, and collaborations with music artists. She continues to nurture her daily practice in her Geelong home, working tirelessly on her beloved character.
Beany’s multidisciplinary approach and dedication to her craft have allowed her to flourish in both intimate and large-scale projects. Her artistic philosophy emphasizes joy, connection, and accessibility, making her work relatable and deeply engaging across diverse audiences.
During her residency at Studio 88, Beany aims to immerse herself fully in the creative process, free from the distractions of everyday life. She plans to experiment, take risks, and enjoy the act of creation without pressure or expectation. “Being at Studio 88 feels like the perfect step in my journey—an opportunity to travel, create, and grow in a place that feels inspiring and alive,” she shares.
Beany hopes to explore new artistic possibilities in Thailand, embracing the culture, colors, and relaxed pace of life that have captivated her during previous visits. Her ultimate goal is to expand the reach of her art, sharing the magic of Beany in new places, and allowing herself to experience the pure joy of making art for art’s sake.
More of Beany’s artwork on her Instagram https://www.instagram.com/beanybeanybeans/
Studio 88 is accepting applications on an on-going basis. Check out our residency program and apply now.
Studio 88 Artist Residency 