I was born in North East England, and lived in the area until I was in my twenties. The early part of my career was spent working in theatre, costume and propmaking in London where I studied Theatre Design at the Slade. I spent 6 years living and working in the United States; Chicago, and Denver Colorado. In the nineties I returned to Sunderland.
Art Education:
BA in Fine Art (sculpture)
MA Illustration & Design
The Slade School of Fine Art, London University
Theatre Design, Post Graduate Studies
I use photography, drawing and the computer to explore my subjects.
Inspiration comes from where I live, here in the North East and particularly the coastline. The countryside here is not always cute or accessible but has an edge and an integrity that constantly keeps me attached to it. Even when doing abstract work, the spikiness of the landscape sneaks in.
Acrylics give me the speed I need to work and pastels, oilbars, charcoal, make it possible to draw spontaneously. Sometimes I work on canvas, other times on heavy paper, or board, depending on the techniques which are most suitable for the subject.
Working quickly and energetically with music helps me capture my passion for what I paint.