Meet Tilly Rex

Artist Bio

Tilly Rex is the creative alter ego of Bay Area artist Carrie Sownie. Carrie earned a BS in Theatre Arts from UC Santa Cruz in 2010, with an unofficial focus on clowning. Tilly Rex can occasionally be seen performing clown burlesque and sideshow acts at underground parties and cabarets and vending at craft festivals throughout the Bay Area.  

Tilly Rex’s character is inspired by the Commedia dell’arte archetype of Harlequin and a very small dinosaur. She believes she is possibly the scariest creature in the world. (If that were true, the world probably wouldn’t have much to worry about.) Carrie performed as the clown Tilly Rex with The Vespertine Circus in Oakland from 2010 to 2012. She toured through the “dirty deep” South and the Pacific Northwest during this time. Additionally, she collaborated with groups such as the Santa Cruz Sirens Burlesque, Cirque des Bêtes, and Beta Test Burlesque. She has performed nationally and in the Bay Area for audiences of up to 500 people.

Carrie creates large, unique props and custom costumes for her performances and occasional modeling work. She has completed commissioned pieces for various groups, including The Vespertine Circus, The Grumpy Princess Show, Tourettes Without Regrets, and Ladies of Steampunk Magazine. Additionally, she has worked with photographers such as Carle Photography and Sydni Indman Photography, as well as fulfilling numerous individual commissions and personal projects.

Carrie ran a successful handmade crafts business called Tilly’s Tiny Treasures and participated in various craft fairs and festivals throughout the Bay Area. Her online shop has received a 5-star review rating on Etsy. She creates tiny, whimsical items that appeal to both young people and those who are young at heart. Her selection includes animal ears, deer antler headbands, and other hair accessories made from familiar materials such as felt, ribbon, and glitter.

Carrie volunteers at and supports organizations committed to cultivating community through creativity.