I am a colour pencil realism specialist, but don't let that put you off!

 

My art is a reflection of personal growth and the profound experiences that have shaped my life in recent years. As a colour pencil realism specialist, I have developed a deep connection to the subtle nuances of light and colour, and the tiny details that colour pencils can capture. I am drawn to vibrant, unusual subjects, often with a playful element, but it is the intricate beauty of florals that I am only recently realising is my passion. There is a quiet serenity in their complex structures, mirroring my own journey toward finding peace and purpose through art.

 

Art became my sanctuary after I left my successful non-art-career to care for my late husband. Drawing allowed me to cope with the stresses of caregiving, offering solace and a means of expression when words were not enough. I would accompany my husband to his chemotherapy sessions and work on a small hospital table next to him. I began with simple colouring, which reignited a long-forgotten, or long-repressed ambition to be an artist. I practiced every day, transitioning from graphite to colour in 2018, when I began taking commissions. We relocated to the Philippines in 2023, to be with his family at the end. After his passing I returned to the UK with a renewed sense of purpose.

 

My art has become a way to honour his memory, and I am exploring how my love of florals can combine with elements that remind me of him and the England he loved-offering a bridge between the past and present, between loss and healing.

 

Though I remain passionate about florals, my artistic exploration doesn’t stop there. I constantly seek new ways to push my creative boundaries-experimenting with a variety of art supplies, teaching myself new techniques as often as I can. I am proud to have represented Derwent Art since 2021. Working with such a renowned brand regularly and consistently has been a wonderful partnership, and I am honoured to have my art on their flagship 100Inktense Pencils tin. Through them I have had the opportunity to connect with a vibrant community of artists, continually learning and growing together.

 

Although my own practice remains focused on healing and self-expression, my work as a teacher brings me closer to my creative voice and the shared joy of art. I teach regularly in person and online, sharing my knowledge and passion for colour pencils with artists of all abilities. I also create video tutorials and I am often commissioned by media publications.

 

I write regularly for Leisure Painter & The Artist Magazine, where I offer problem solving advice, tips and tricks through my monthly Colour Pencil Clinic.

 

I do not exhibit regularly, but I have been honoured to receive recognition in competitions – most notably the International Guild of Realism Best Floral in 2021 and The SAA Artist of the Year Winner of Best Woodland/Landscape category 2020.​​

I am 55, based in Winchester, UK.

​Any questions, or if you'd like to work with me please get in touch.​