.I am a designer from Yorkshire, born and raised in a small moorland town surrounded by the stunning, ever-changing landscapes of the region. Growing up, I developed a deep appreciation for the natural world, constantly seeking out unique images—whether in my mind’s eye or through the lens of my camera. Many of these images make their way onto my canvas, where I reimagine them as fresh, original pieces—whether they are landscapes or still life.
A significant influence on my artistic journey was my Grandad, a creator of intricate working mechanical models. He taught me to go beyond the simple boundaries of colouring books and to develop my own designs. Through his guidance, I learned the fundamentals of perspective—understanding how to depict shapes like cylinders and boxes, and how to use shadow to give them depth. These early lessons laid the foundation for my current practice, helping me translate these skills into the work I create today.
I pursued a degree in Graphic Design, graduating with a 2:1 BA Hons, which opened my eyes to new ways of seeing and interpreting the world. It taught me to question everything and to think critically about how we visualise the elements of design—lines, movement, and colour. This mindset has shaped my ongoing development as an artist, and over the years, I’ve created a broad portfolio of work that I continue to reflect on and build upon. My art has been exhibited in various venues, and my goal is always to create designs that capture attention and evoke a personal connection with the viewer.
The art of the 19th century, particularly the Expressionist and Impressionist movements, has had a profound impact on my work. Visiting galleries and immersing myself in these historical styles has allowed me to better understand the creative process behind these iconic pieces. Elements of their colour palettes, brushwork, and emotional depth often resonate with me, and I occasionally draw on these influences in my own work. I now channel these ideas into my art projects.
I live surrounded by towns and cities steeped in local heritage, yet much of the everyday environment often becomes "white noise" to me. It’s in the quieter, overlooked spaces between these familiar sights that I find the most unique inspiration. I’ve been practicing as an artist since 2003, and my interest in the spiritual realm has also played a significant role in shaping my work. In 2005, I created my first piece of art that felt to me like a natural, unforced expression. That moment gave me the confidence to pursue painting with greater fluency and a sense of purpose.
A central theme in my work is the exploration of physical and emotional scars—particularly the healing process. I’m fascinated by how trauma affects both the body and the mind, and how those experiences can be translated through art. One of my most meaningful projects was painting murals on the walls of a children’s hospital ward, where I was able to use art to provide comfort and healing.
In September 2023, I had the privilege of being interviewed by the BBC about the art murals in hospital areas. I’ve created for children’s hospital wards, elderly, and special care. These murals aim to bring comfort and joy to young patients, and it was a fulfilling experience to share how art can play a role in healing. One of my aspirations is to open my own gallery, not only to showcase my work but also to offer a space for local artists to exhibit their creations. I believe in the power of seeing art up close—it’s in these intimate encounters with a piece that you truly begin to understand the artist's technique, their brushstrokes, and the emotions behind the work.
Colour contrasts are at the heart of my painting style. I love the tension between light and dark, often pouring bright paint over dark, allowing it to flood the canvas unpredictably. This interplay of colour and chance creates a precarious balance, one that feels alive and ever-changing. I paint primarily with acrylics, using texture as a key element in the work. Sometimes, marks and blobs of paint take on their own form, contributing to the layers of the composition and adding an organic unpredictability. The way I apply colour is raw and unrestrained, creating a dynamic energy on the canvas that’s free from distractions—every stroke is intentional, and mistakes are embraced as part of the process.
I draw much of my inspiration from photographs and images I encounter, which spark ideas for exploring strong contrasts and bold colour combinations. My work often ventures into abstraction, experimenting with patterns, body forms, and size, constantly seeking what works and what feels new. I enjoy mixing media—ink, pencil, and even digital elements—creating pieces that feel both playful and raw. The contrast between black-and-white drawings and splashes of primary colour is something I find especially compelling, bringing a sense of freedom and spontaneity to the composition.
In my art, I aim to create a surreal visual world that expresses complex emotions—often with traces of humour or a distorted sense of meaning. By experimenting with textures, tones, and natural hues, I fuse elements of beauty, darkness, and love, each piece evoking a distinct emotional experience. Inspiration can come from anywhere: music, conversations, popular culture, or simply collections of images that spark new ideas. These inspirations are filtered through my own experiences, and my work often reflects moments in time, memories, and locations—each piece carrying the essence of a feeling, a sound, or even a scent that I’m trying to convey.
Art, for me, is a powerful outlet for self-expression—a way to process both joy and pain. It’s an opportunity to release and transform emotions into something tangible, something that resonates with others on a personal level.
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