Colourful oil paintings inspired by the diversity of the natural world.
Last year was set to be my first opportunity to exhibit at Oxfordshire Artweeks, so it was really disappointing to miss the chance to meet visitors and get their feedback. Therefore I am doubly excited about this year’s second attempt. Some of my paintings have found new homes, even in lockdown, and I have undertaken a few commissions, so I hope to reach a wider audience while joining the many other artists in the Bicester Art Network exhibition.
DATE CHANGE - please note that the physical exhibition of Bicester Art Network will now take place on 17-24 May to allow for wider access within Covid-19 restrictions.
I only discovered the pleasure of painting after retiring from a demanding career travelling the world organising conferences, but I've been busy making up for lost time.
I am inspired by the diversity of colours and designs to be found in nature. Birds, animals and plants are endlessly fascinating. There is such beauty in the details of feathers, fur, flowers, leaves, or the repeating patterns created by water and fire. I love bright, vibrant colours and striking images, focusing on individual details. My images are often stylized rather than entirely realistic. An interesting face can grab my attention, and I like to match a portrait with a partner animal or bird – not to show the animal as a pet but as an interacting equal.
All the animals and birds I paint are ones that I have seen, either in this country or on my travels overseas. Because I like to capture detail, my paintings take time to emerge, so are carried out in my studio (aka the spare bedroom!) from a selection of photo references.
Despite being a latecomer to painting, I have always been interested in design and craft. I achieved a first class BA Hons degree in Graphic Design and Illustration as a mature student. The highlight being that one of my degree pieces was bought by Tate Britain to be included in their Artists’ Books Library.