Born in England, I grew up in B.C., the mountains, ocean and forests nurturing a curiosity and love for the natural world. I paint for the sheer joy of transporting myself into a landscape, still life or the connection with an animal I may have encountered on my travels. My painting style is constantly evolving; whether representational, impressionistic or interpretative I use whatever technique or style I feel captures that special moment.
The acrylic paint I use facilitates spontaneity as well as careful and considered work, allowing for both watercolor effects and textural possibilities. Starting with a classical under painting and building with many transparent layers; a vibrant palette, strong compositions, subtle shades and contrast combine to create the dynamic and contemporary feel in my work. Whether it be an atmospheric landscape using soft edges and little detail or a hard edged, detailed still life, flower or animal, I strive to elicit an emotional response; perhaps a happy memory, a feeling of serenity, harmony or even a bit of whimsy.
All artistic endeavors enrich our lives and I hope to make a small contribution by focusing on some of the beauty in our world and sharing it with others.
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
Victoria Sketch Club
Windsor Park Art Group
Saanich Peninsula Arts and Crafts Society
Community Arts Council Greater Victoria
I have been honored to receive several awards for my work, pushing me to constantly improve my skills and produce the best possible work.
I have participated in many juried, solo, and group shows including Sooke and Sidney Fine Art Shows, Sooke Harbour House, TD Moss Street Paint In, Artist in Residence at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, The Inn at Laurel Point and Coast Harborside Hotel, The Gallery at Mattick's Farm, Main Gallery Cedar Hill Art Centre, Rainforest Art Gallery, Victoria Sketch Club Annual Shows, Abkhazi Gardens, Victoria International Airport, Scattered Artists Open Studio Tours, Saanich Peninsula Arts and Craft Shows, Muse Winery, Oak Bay Marina Restaurant, Coast Collective Art Gallery and The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.
My work is held in collections across Canada, Europe, China, Greece and the USA