Since graduating with an honours degree in Printed Textiles Design from Manchester Metropolitan University in 1999, I have worked primarily as an artist and illustrator.

I am drawn to decorative and colourful objects, finding inspiration predominately from domestic interiors, and anywhere where there is pattern. My passion for drawing stems back to universtity, where we would draw and paint collections of ornamental objects. The work explores compositions of colour and painterly pattern. It is aesthetically pleasing with a whimsical character. The main element is delight and celebration.

Work begins with the research stage, where small scale colour sketches playfully explore the subject matter. I take my camera with me everywhere I go, to collect references and ideas. If possible, I really enjoy working from life, drawing in cafes, museums and gardens. In the final artwork, paint is layered on top of patterned papers to create textural surfaces. The use of collage adds depth and a narrative to the paintings.

Illustration work has included regular editorials for Waitrose Food Illustrated magazine, greeting crads for Paperchase, prints for John Lewis and interior shops and large scale murals for The Affordable Art Fair. The work has been published internationally. 
 

Prints. I have developed my passion for drawing, mark making and pattern by creating a collection of screen prints. I have taken black line drawings from my sketchbooks and translated them onto screen. The prints are in small editions and individually hand coloured using acrylic paint, inks and procion dyes.