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​Can you provide an overview of your artistic background and journey?

 

I did a Fine Arts degree, then trained as a teacher of Art, which I did for 36 years. Since retiring, I have begun to explore landscapes which is proving harder than teaching.

 

 What mediums do you primarily work with, and why did you choose them?

I Work mainly in oils and acrylics but recently have been trying to get to grips with small watercolour studies. I love oils for their flexibility.

 

 How would you describe your artistic style or approach?

Fairly traditional

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 Could you walk me through the conceptual process behind some of your notable works?

I'm not entirely sure what you mean here, but my paintings are usually a direct response to what I see.

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 What themes or subjects inspire you the most?

Skies and clouds inspire me the most. I love the colours in changing light and weather.

 

 Can you explain the techniques or methods you use to create your art?

I do a base monotone layer to sort out the composition and then work all over the canvas as I look for colours.

 

 Do any specific art movements, artists, or historical periods influence your work?

No, I have a wide range of art styles that I love, from Rembrandt, Turner, and the Impressionists to modern and contemporary Artists, but I tend to paint instinctively, perhaps unimaginatively but happily.

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 How do you ensure that your artistic vision and style remain consistent across different projects?

Because I usually want my paintings to look like the beautiful places that I spend time in.

 

 Can you talk about any challenges you've faced during your artistic career and how you overcame them?

I was a better teacher than an artist, and I still find it challenging to start a new painting because I always feel that it could be better. I would like to be able to follow the advice that I gave to my students.

 

 Have you exhibited or sold your artwork before? If so, could you share some of those experiences?

I only exhibited my degree show and sold a large sky painting. I have sold work mainly to friends who have commissioned pieces from time to time.

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 How do you approach collaboration or working on commissioned projects?

For commissioned work, I use photos.

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 Do you have any particular goals or aspirations for your artistic career?

No. I just want to improve my skills and be able to develop a looser, slightly more abstract approach.

  

 What feedback or reactions have you received from viewers or clients in the past?

My friends are always very kind and positive.

  

 Do you actively seek out critique or feedback to improve your work? How do you handle constructive criticism?

Constructive criticism is good.

 

 How do you consistently stay motivated and inspired to create new art?

I walk in the Peak District and take lots of photographs. I visit exhibitions and watch Landscape and Portrait Artist of the Year! 

 

 Can you talk about any ongoing or upcoming projects you're working on?

I hope to continue with my landscapes but would like to try more portrait painting too.

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 What role do experimentation and exploration play in your artistic process?

I have done some courses that were very much about experimenting with media and techniques. I found them interesting and very positive ways to move out of my comfort zone, but I lack the imagination to explore ideas on my own!

 

 Lastly, is there anything else you would like to share about your portfolio or artistic practice?

Only that I am fortunate to have the resources and space to work, and hope that I can continue to develop and become more confident in trying different approaches.

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