Born and raised in Dorset, I grew up immersed in wildlife and the countryside. This became the focus of my creative interests and sparked a lifelong passion for the natural world.  

My professional life has been in the music industry, working in Artist Relations for major record labels with a diverse roster of UK and international artists. This took me in a different creative direction for many years, but my connection with nature remained constant and eventually brought me back to art. With little formal training, my work has developed through observation, trial and error, and perseverance.

What motivates you as an artist?
Time spent in nature gives me a sense of calm, balance and joy. My drawings come from that connection and the urge to celebrate it. I focus on physical form as well as the small details – the texture of feathers, the patterns in fur, subtle expressions and posture. Alongside wildlife subjects, I take commissioned portraits of children and dogs. I look for a true likeness while also reflecting the individuality of each subject.

What is your preferred medium and why?
I use professional graphite and coloured pencils which allow me to build tone, texture and fine detail gradually through layered mark-making. Polychromos give controlled, crisp line work, while Luminance are more painterly, with a softer, richer laydown. I’ll often use charcoal for quick sketching.

Favourite piece of kit?
I love my collection of coloured pencils but a sharp point is essential, so I’d be lost without my Jakar electric sharpener.

What are you working on now?
I’ve just finished several new drawings for the Barnes Artists Open Studios in June, which has the theme ‘From the Garden’. I’ve broadened this to include an owl and a kingfisher! Today I’ve had fun photographing my next commission – an energetic Sproodle. I’ll be returning to Dorset soon to gather inspiration; early summer is a magical time in the countryside.

Favourite artist?
I have fond childhood memories of Charles Tunnicliffe’s illustrations for the Ladybird nature series and Tarka the Otter. I admire David Shepherd’s work for its realism and expressive backgrounds, and Constable for his honest connection to landscape and rural life. A recent exhibition of Turner’s wildlife studies was very special.

What makes Barnes special for an artist?
I moved to Barnes 20 years ago and can’t imagine living anywhere else in London. I really value the abundance of green space and wildlife at the pond, river and Wetland centre, while still being close to so much culture. I can walk among the old oaks in Richmond Park in the morning and be in the National Gallery later that day. As a member of Barnes Artists I’ve made new friendships, shared ideas, and taken part in exhibitions and community events.