Samuel Chatto, a 28-year-old History of Art graduate and accomplished ceramicist, made a rare public appearance alongside his girlfriend, Eleanor Ekserdjian, during the royal family's Christmas celebrations in Sandringham. The couple's presence at the annual event fueled speculation about their engagement, as traditionally only married partners of royals join the family for their Christmas Day walkabout. Chatto, the grandson of the late Princess Margaret and son of Lady Sarah Chatto and Michael Chatto, adds a touch of artistic flair to the royal lineage.
Chatto graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a degree in History of Art and further honed his skills at the Royal Drawing School. His passion for ceramics led him to establish his own studio in East Sussex. In 2023, he broadened his expertise by securing an apprenticeship with renowned Japanese artist Yagi Akira in Kyoto, Japan. Reflecting on his artistic journey, Chatto stated:
"I've always had a strong affinity with creating objects, having spent much of my childhood crafting imagined landscapes and sculptural models, which naturally led me to clay during my later years at school." – Samuel Chatto
Eleanor Ekserdjian, an abstract painter and film artist, also boasts an impressive artistic background. She graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a degree in Fine Art and attended the Royal Drawing School like Chatto. Ekserdjian has showcased her work in numerous galleries including London's Redfern Gallery, Gallery 286, and Seen Fifteen Gallery. Her innovative artistic practices often involve combining the moving image with traditional painting techniques. Explaining her creative process, Ekserdjian noted:
"Ekserdjian's practice involves projecting the moving image onto paper or canvas and drawing from and over it, her physical and emotional responses being made visible through rapid mark-making." – Eleanor Ekserdjian
Ekserdjian further explored her art during a six-week residency in Armenia, where she developed her unique style into what she describes as "lyrical landscapes."
"These paintings and drawings become lyrical landscapes which explore her evolving emotional response to the film." – Eleanor Ekserdjian
Samuel Chatto and Eleanor Ekserdjian's shared history at the University of Edinburgh and the Royal Drawing School underscores their mutual appreciation for art. Their recent public appearance has not only highlighted their relationship but also brought attention to their individual artistic achievements.
