Lily's work reflects a love of nature. Her original paintings are often inspired by multitudes in nature (flocks, shoals, gatherings...) and the flow of that multitude, in glorified representations. Lily’s paintings usually employ an element of collage material, however rather than found material, Lily uses paper copies of her own painting or printmaking studies. Koi fish, for example, are meticulously hand-painted, then reproduced, cut, and arranged in a composition on the canvas. Washes of inks are applied, and sometimes additional painted or drawn details, before a clear gloss varnish secures the work and adds an opulent lustre.

Work is often oriental in style; Lily is greatly influenced by the colours and aesthetics of eighteenth century printmakers such as Hokusai and Hiroshige, and Japanese kimono design. Lily is interested in finding out what it takes to create an appealing aesthetic - how to create a 'flow' and an energy. For Lily this means a search for balance and beauty. Overall her aims are simple – to create something the viewer can take enjoyment from.

In 2013 Lily was shortlisted for the New Lights Art Prize, which supports emerging young artists in the North of England. In January 2016, Saatchi Art featured Lily in their 'One to Watch' artist series. In 2025, Lily was selected for the Lake Artists Society Summer Exhibition, and was awarded the Peter Tyson Award for an abstract, conceptual or innovative piece.