I was born and grew up in Bristol. Since moving back to the West Country the RWA has become an important focus.
Whilst living in London I was head of a large Art department in a multi-cultural community helping to develop a programme involving exhibitions in local and some prestigious London venues. Philosophically I feel creativity and visual awareness are essential, changing and developing the lives of all concerned.
I was awarded a year's sabbatical for my work as head of department and offered a year at Goldsmiths to develop my own work with access to art school lecturers and artists offering the opportunity for exchange of ideas and practice. I began to spend time in Dorset where the rural and coastal landscape influenced my work and decided to move back to the West Country: eventually teaching part time enabled me to continue with community work, organising and curating exhibitions, studio visits and Art School preparation with young people while establishing my own studio and developing my practice. The Open Studios have offered further opportunities in the wider community. I've been delighted to exhibit my larger paintings at the RWA and enjoyed getting to know members there and at my studio. Membership will give me the chance to meet other painters with a similar way of seeing and explorative intention. I'm interested in the excellent educational programme at the RWA and I would like to be considered to be part of this creative community.