Welcome to my website.  I am an animal artist working in pastels, charcoal and oils.  As well as exhibiting in galleries I have for a number of years been submitting my artwork to national exhibitions, including the Exhibition of Wildlife Art and The Wildlife Art Society International, where I am delighted to say that I received a "Highly Commended" award at this year's exhibition for my painting of "Garden Visitors". 

 

'Garden Visitors'

  Inspiration for my artwork virtually always comes from observing animals, especially cats - from domestic cats to wildcats.  However, over the years my subjects have been wide and varied from a commission to paint a farmer’s favourite cow to a painting of a rescued cheetah.  I have also worked in the giftware industry and my images have been published internationally on a variety of products. 

  

'Making Friends'

For a number of years I lived in North Devon with my husband, our German Shepherd and three cats.  We lived in an area frequently referred to as Tarka country, and whilst living there paintings of otters regularly featured on my easel.  When swimming otters are fascinating to watch, they make lovely curving shapes and are so wonderfully fluid.   Otters are also very playful and move fast which makes them very difficult to sketch whilst in action - even photography can be challenging.  Cats are much easier to sketch and photograph especially when the sun is shining and they find a warm spot to curl up.    Kittens however when awake are always on the move.

In 2017 we decided to relocate to the Somerset/Dorset border, an area abounding with wildlife.  Having models on the doorstep means that I can regularly study their antics and I am always mentally working out new images.  Our visitors vary from foxes, deer, squirrels and badgers plus the odd pheasant and nearby there are many varieties of wild ducks, egrets and swans which look stunning against the sparkling blue water.

   Recent awards:

National Exhibition of Wildlife Art 2015 - David Cook drawing award

National Exhibition of Wildlife Art 2016 - David Cook drawing award

Association of Animal Artists exhibition 2016 - Wildlife category award

Southern Nature Art Exhibition 2018 - Winner of the public vote

The Wildlife Art Society International Exhibition 2023 - Awarded "Highly Commended"

In addition to exhibiting I am running a local art group which is affiliated to the Society for All Artists (SAA).  For further information about the benefits of SAA membership their website can be reached at www.saa.co.uk.