My surroundings have always interested me and I find beauty in so many things. As a child of adventurous parents, I had lots to feed my visual curiosity as we moved often. We spent some years in Eswatini, and on a Greek island before returning to provincial Suffolk in England. Eventually we ended up in London. I love London. It is a liberal, accepting city and it has been a huge influence on me. I was a very shy child, spending most of my time drawing, colouring and making clothes and homes for my dolls. London offered freedom, independence, beauty and culture, all of which I could experience on my own. From a young teenager, I took myself off to explore different areas of the city, immersing myself in architecture, different cultures and fabulous works of art in the many art galleries. It was so fascinating. By then I knew that somehow I had to live a life enriched by creativity, which I express through painting.
Artist Statement
My intention is to create pieces that feel fresh, reachable and positive. My style is simple and in direct contrast to the complexities of modern life. Constant information, consumer and social demands can be suffocating so my wish is to create pictures that bring pleasure and escape.
There is an emphasis on colour in my paintings. I love harmony whether in rich or fresh tones; I mix all the colours myself to ensure I get the right shade. These colours are all in my mind’s eye as I paint almost entirely from my imagination. I love this process from the spark in my mind, to paper, canvas, then paint.
I like my pieces to have personality and presence. For example representing traditional themes like nudes or flowers in a dramatic way. My work offers a straightforward view in a world that is anything but. I hope my pictures convey something calm and happy and different which gives pleasure to people. Bringing joy into lives in this way would be great.
