I would describe myself as a 'multi-discipline creative', as I express my creativity through art, music, photography and the written word. Within my artwork, I use a variety of different methods and materials, from acrylics to watercolour pencils and inks, through to multi media craftwork and 3D objects.

 

I grew up in a very musical household - I think I could probably read music before I could read books - and many a Saturday afternoon was spent watching and listening to my father conduct classical orchestral concerts. I often took a sketchbook; the music suggested colours and swirling patterns to me, but I had no idea other people didn't experience this too! It wasn't until much later that I discovered this was 'chromesthesia', a form of synesthesia, where hearing musical notes triggers seeing colours. If I am working on a specific project or commission, I will work in silence, as I find the music 'interferes' with the colour palette I am using; when I'm creating abstract art though, it's a positive inspiration.

 

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This has led to a lifelong love of colour and pattern. As a child, my Grandmother would take me to Derby Art Gallery, where I discovered the works of Joseph Wright. I was, and remain, fascinated by his capture of light, shadow and illumination. Exploring light patterns is a theme I revisit constantly.

 

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I often use my own photographs as references, taken on an ordinary phone camera. I like to experiment with the colour saturations, as increasing the colour density often reveals colours, fluorescence and iridescence invisible to the naked eye - although it's interesting to note that many insects and birds see things this way as standard, particularly on flowers. I then use these heightened colours in my art.

 

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The natural world is a constant source of inspiration. I am an avid cloud and sky watcher, but I also like the small intricate patterns and details that often get overlooked in our busy lives; I find them a creative springboard - anything from seedheads that suit a Warhol-esque 'pop-art' look to the psychedelic ripples on water.

 

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I spent last Summer experimenting with 'Tata-kizome', the ancient Japanese art of transferring the form and natural dyes of flowers onto paper by hammering. Last year's strong sunshine intensified the pigments in the pansies I grew, and produced a stunning range of colours that I used in a range of unique giftcards for my fledgling business, Blue Llama Arts.

 

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At the other end of the scale, I also enjoy painting large scale murals and backdrops, and creating interactive artistic installations. I have been fortunate to create two immersive themed 'breakout' spaces for pupils at Eccleshall Primary School. One drew inspiration from the Peak District, showing scenes from Edale, Padley Gorge, and Stanage Edge, while the other, for younger children, was a fantasy underwater scene. The children drew their own 'fantastical fish' that I incorporated into my design. I have also organised and run many themed 'have a go' arts and crafts activity days at community events.

 

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Art is an ever-evolving journey for me, as much about the creative process as the end result. I love experimenting with new techniques, methods and processes, and have been very inspired by the artists I have met in the Love Sheffield Artist community. I believe passionately that we are all innately creative, and would love to be further involved in helping people 'get messy' and unlock their inner artist!

 

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