It was always a dream to go to Art College, but somehow life got in the way for many years. After a Business Studies degree and too many years working in finance, I knew I needed an outlet for my creativity, so enrolled on an evening class to take an A level in Art & Design. The dream became reality and I spent two years at Herefordshire College of Art and Design, completing a part time Art Foundation course. Regular trips to The St Ives School of Painting have also been a huge source of inspiration and tuition for me, and I started selling my paintings through galleries in 2004. As well as mixed exhibitions I have had several solo shows, and my paintings are enjoyed in France, Italy and Israel, as well as the UK. As well as painting, I am an Aromatherapist and Life Coach.
My aim is to produce paintings which capture the essence of a subject but allow a personal response and express more than just the visual qualities. Texture is important in building up an exciting image which allows an interplay between the source inspiration and the materials themselves. I may include fabric, sand, and textured mediums to add depth and visual impact.
I use acrylic paint, and thoroughly enjoy the versatility of this fabulous medium, which allows enormous scope to include mixed media, and achieve a huge variety of effects. Previous experience with ceramics and printmaking have been instrumental in my love of an exciting surface quality.
My inspiration comes from nature. I live on the border of Gloucestershire and Worcestershire, with a view of the Malvern Hills from my studio, but my formative years were spent by the sea in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. Water, and in particular the sea, is a fundamental part of my work. The art and landscape of St Ives have been a key influence and I have been mesmerized by the rich and varied blues of the Indian Ocean.
The paintings are all on chunky canvas, unframed, and with the image continuing round the edge.
Artgallery rating Positive. This artist has received positive feedback from customers regarding reliability and excellence of artistry.
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