About me

My name is Laetitia, and I was born in the Basque Country, near the ocean. The name "Elaïa" means "swallow" in Basque, reflecting my cultural roots and serving as a playful nod to my nickname. My real surname, meaning "travelling the world," is a bit challenging to pronounce, but it perfectly encapsulates my adventurous spirit.

This detailed pointillism illustration depicts a swallow in mid-flight. Created using precise dotwork techniques, the drawing captures the elegance and grace of the bird. Perfect for art enthusiasts and bird lovers.

Welcome to Elaïa – Where Art and Archaeology Converge

A Journey Rooted in Adventure

Adventure is in my DNA. With over a decade of experience as an archaeologist, I have traversed the globe, particularly the Middle East, Central Asia, Africa, and North America. My journeys have allowed me to immerse myself in diverse cultures, capture stunning photographs, and experience unforgettable moments such as encountering a bear, flying over the North Pole, witnessing the northern lights, attending a traditional Tajik wedding, and swimming in bioluminescent seas.

This image showcases a Tajik bride in traditional wedding attire, featuring intricate embroidery, vibrant colors, and ornate accessories. The elaborate costume reflects Tajik cultural heritage and is a stunning example of Central Asian craftsmanship.
Colorful market scene in Cameroon, depicting daily life and the lively atmosphere of a traditional market.
Captured in Qatar, this touching image shows a young girl in modern clothing and a Union Jack hat holding her father's hand, who wears traditional Middle Eastern attire. A beautiful blend of cultures and familial bonds.
A stunning bioluminescent beach illuminated by glowing waves under a starry night sky. This mesmerizing natural phenomenon creates a magical, otherworldly atmosphere. Keywords: bioluminescent beach, glowing waves, starry night, natural phenomenon, ma
Picture of Laetitia in Alaska on a seaplane, Bettles Arctic Circle
A serene image of a mother grizzly bear and her cubs wading in the clear waters of an Alaskan lake, surrounded by lush forests and misty mountains. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
This intimate portrait captures two young boys in traditional attire from the Sultanate of Oman. The older boy cradles his younger sibling, reflecting the deep familial bonds and rich cultural heritage of Oman. Keywords: Omani culture, traditional at
A captivating close-up portrait of a Tuareg man dressed in traditional blue attire with a wrapped indigo turban. This image highlights the cultural heritage and distinctive attire of the Tuareg people from Algeria.
Captured in Yukon, this striking image showcases the majestic bison roaming freely against a backdrop of lush forests and clear blue skies. Perfectly illustrating the wild beauty of Yukon wildlife.

A passion for drawing

Detailed black and white drawing of a pencil holder with brushes and pens, perfect for art enthusiasts and creators.

From a young age, I was captivated by drawing. At nine, I began my first drawing lessons in the heart of the old city center of Bayonne. I still vividly recall the scent of tea and oil pastels, the creaking wooden floor, and the soothing jazz music my teacher played. My dream was to have an artist's studio filled with light in the heights of Paris.

Featuring a stunning array of vibrant colors in an ornate case
Caryatid from the Temple of Athens

Combining Archaeology and Art

Initially, I pursued a career in archaeology, but my passion for drawing soon led me to become a scientific illustrator. My work involves meticulously drawing artifacts such as pottery, flint, and various objects from archaeological sites worldwide. This little-known profession demands a keen eye for detail, a trait I am deeply passionate about.

A detailed hand-drawn illustration of a Hasaitic inscription. This meticulous drawing captures the ancient script and intricacies of the stone artifact, reflecting the significance of archaeological documentation.
A detailed hand-drawn illustration of a classic compass, perfect for navigation enthusiasts. The intricate design showcases traditional navigational tools, making it ideal for educational or decorative purposes.

Inspiration from Around the World

My illustrations are deeply inspired by my travels. Each piece reflects the colors, materials, and fabrics of the world’s archaeological monuments and cultures. Through my art, I aim to share the beauty and stories of these fascinating heritages with a discerning audience.

Explore and Discover

Join me on a journey through art and archaeology. Explore the gallery to see my unique illustrations inspired by global adventures and cultural discoveries. Each piece is crafted with precision and a deep appreciation for the world's diverse heritage.

Portfolio
  • A hand holding a detailed illustration of an Assyrian lion's head, surrounded by blooming white roses and green leaves, created by Elaïa Artist.

    Assyrian lion pointillism illustration with white roses

  • This image captures the intricate details of a hand-drawn Lamassu illustration by Elaïa Artist. The artwork is laid out on a wooden table, illuminated by natural light, with green foliage adding a touch of nature to the setting.

    Human-headed winged lion (Lamassu), Ancient Mesopotamia

  • This image features a meticulous hand-drawn illustration of the bull's head from Darius I's Palace at Persepolis, placed on a wooden desk with a pencil and surrounded by elegant decor elements. Created by Elaïa Artist.

    Hand-Drawn Bull's Head from Darius I's Palace at Persepolis

  • This image features a meticulous hand-drawn illustration of a lion defeating a bull from Persepolis, laid on a beige fabric with a candle in the background. The artwork, part of the Elaïa Artist Collection, showcases intricate details and historical.

    Hand-Drawn Lion Defeating a Bull, Persepolis

  • This image features a framed, hand-drawn illustration of an ivory plaque from Baghdad, held by a woman. The artwork depicts a man holding a palm tree under a winged symbol from ancient Mesopotamia.

    A man holding a palm tree under a winged symbol, Ancient mesopotamia

Portfolio