Well, My Mum and Dad met at Wimbledon Art School and my three siblings all trained at Art schools. I trained to be a secretary, learning shorthand and typing and ended up as a Director’s Secretary. However, Art was ever present in my life and I attended a few night school classes and part time courses… I was encouraged by family and friends and started selling my work at local events and markets. This has grown over the years to me having Exhibitions and frequent attendance at many of the South West main markets where I have become a familiar face and have regular customers and followers.
Q: What is it that you do? Describe yourself and what makes you unique.
I started painting in soft watercolour and loved the cottage garden subjects initially but then discovered the vibrancy of pastels which I realised could enhance a painting when applied on top of the watercolour. Experimentation, observation and trial and error lead me to eventually realise that pure pastel was my preferred medium. I love the strength of colour and the immediacy of it. I wouldn’t know how to describe myself, except that I love to keep busy and what with having a big garden and a studio to work in, busy I am kept (in a nice way)…. there’s always something to do and I am forever sourcing new reference for paintings, especially when the light is inspirational and light is unique within my artwork.
Q: Tell us about the work that makes you the proudest?
One of my proudest moments was when Prince Charles came to Barnstaple Pannier market and he spoke with me about my work for quite a while and enthused over several pieces saying ‘they are seriously good’….quite a feather in my cap, being a fellow Artist himself.
Q: Who or what inspires you? What keeps you going?
My talented family are forever inspirational to me, as are the quintessential Westcountry landscapes right here on the doorstep….. sparkling rivers, winding lanes, moody moors and magnificent coastline…all just waiting to be captured in pastel paintings. I keep going because I can….. 🙂
