Nature-Loving Artist: Celebrating Beauty and Decadence
In February 2016, my life took an unexpected turn. My beautiful mum passed away suddenly, leaving me in profound grief and deep contemplation. Amidst the sorrow, a single thought reverberated in my mind: Life is precious. Life is short. Cherish every moment!
This epiphany stirred something within me – a realisation that life is meant to be lived to the fullest and you must follow your dreams!
For years, my passion for art had taken a back seat. As a mother, a paediatric physiotherapist, and juggling all the other responsibilities that life throws at us, the artist within me remained dormant. But, in the wake of loss, I realized the urgency of embracing my dreams, igniting a long-suppressed desire within me.
I found myself at a crossroads yearning for a spark to reignite my creative flame. That spark came when I returned to my true passion: painting. Inspired by the enchanting beauty of nature I found solace and inspiration and every stroke of the brush. As a child, I was fortunate enough to grow up amidst the idyllic landscapes of Exmoor, where carefree days spent exploring the great outdoors were the norm.
The memories of those sun kissed days still bring a smile to my face filling my heart with warmth and joy. Nature became my sanctuary, offering solace and serenity in the midst of life's hustle and bustle.
It was this deep connection to the natural world that fuelled my artistic journey. Each painting became a reflection of the wonder and tranquilly I found in the natural world. I sought to capture the essence of that boundless beauty.
But it wasn't until I discovered the allure of gold leaf that my art truly began to shine.
Entranced by its radiant glow and timeless elegance, I felt a surge of creativity unlike any before. Perhaps it was my travels, or a fleeting moment in Cairo where I stood in awe of Tutankhamun’s Treasures, that planted the seed of my fascination with gold. The opulence, the ethereal beauty - it was as if I found my muse in those shimmering artefacts.
Little did I know that trip would become a cornerstone of my artistic journey igniting a passion for gold that would permeate every aspect of my work.
As I paint and create today, I carry with me the echoes of that moment, infusing each piece with the same sense of wonder and majesty that captivated me long ago.
Over the past few years, I've dedicated myself to mastering the art of working with gold leaf through workshops and study. I’ve found a deep love for this medium - it's like bringing sunshine into every piece I create.
Each artwork begins with labour of love: painting the canvas, applying delicate layers of gold leaf, and sealing it with varnish. But, for me that's just the beginning.
And now, I’m incredibly proud and excited to serve as a resident artist at Cadbury House Hotel near Bristol. Here I thoroughly enjoy talking with guests at live painting sessions and workshops. Nestled in the picturesque North Somerset countryside the hotel offers breathtaking views and serves as a haven for nature enthusiasts.
These days you'll find me in my light filled studio amidst the hustle and bustle of home life. It’s where I feel most at peace - losing myself in the creative process accompanied by the soothing melodies of classical music.
Covered in paint and gold leaf I revel in the beautifully messy journey of bringing each artwork to life.
