Nature-Loving Artist: Celebrating Beauty and Decadence
The joy and magic of nature inspires me to capture the glory of all its colours, forms and beauty.
As a child I lived on a farm in rural Devon and my happiest memories were of sunny carefree days playing outside, exploring the natural world. That feeling of freedom and space. The joy and tranquility of nature. It gave me comfort and thrilled me in equal measure.
We all need that sense of belonging and grounding that connecting to nature gives us, and I try to capture that sense of wonderment in every painting I create.
A trip to see the Treasures of Tutankhamun in Cairo sparked my fascination with gold.
The light reflections, the opulence and the ethereal beauty of all those golden treasures really struck me. I didn't know it at the time, but I would carry that inspiration with me for years.
Like many people, I allowed art to take a back seat to “sensible” career paths and my busy family life. But I continued to develop my artistic skills, taking courses and creating art whenever I could while I worked as a physiotherapist and travelled around the world.
However my desire to express myself and create joyful things became pivotal after experiencing two close family bereavements that turned my world upside down. I decided it was finally time to put my art first.
Working with gold leaf is like working with sunshine!
I am a bit of a magpie, loving anything that sparkles. I also have a penchant for jewellery, and I particularly adore the glamorous Art Deco period, which I’m sure you can see as a strong influence in my art.
I discovered working with gold and metal leaf a few years ago and I haven't stopped since! It creates a stunning luminosity and I adore the impact of natural light hitting the canvas. Every artwork starts with a labor of love - painting the canvas red, applying gold leaf, and sealing it with varnish. And that's just the beginning.
All my art is countryside-inspired, with a healthy dollop of opulence for the luxury lovers.
I frequently exhibit at The Cadbury House Hotel near Bristol. I have the honour of being the resident artist at this luxury country hotel in North Somerset. I am excited by the opportunity to do some 'live' painting and speak to the wonderful guests. It's the perfect spot for nature lovers as the hotel is nestled in the North Somerset countryside with stunning views.
Painting and creating fills me with joy, especially working in my light-drenched art studio in amongst the hustle and bustle of home life. I love listening to classical music and loosing myself in the creative process, whilst being covered in gold leaf and paint!
