A feast for the eyes, work in progress and a song for the soul
Pull up a chair and let’s share a moment together.
This week, I’ve got a little video hello for you, updates from the studio, and a story about the power of favourite songs and favourite paintings to shift our mood. And, as always, a glimpse of the places and rituals that inspire my work. I hope something here lifts you, comforts you, or sparks a little joy.
o0o
A Little Hello — On Video
Sometimes words on a page don’t quite capture the heart. So, I’ve made a short video introducing myself properly; who I paint for, what drives me, and what my collectors tell me they find in my work.
And don’t forget: for September only, any order of £150 or more comes with a bundle of three unframed prints (worth £120) as a free gift. A little something extra to enjoy or to tuck away for Christmas.
o0o
On the Easel — Venice & Stratford
When I visited Venice a few years ago, I’ll admit I arrived with a certain..ahem..'expectation'. A former client had warned me of an “odour” that apparently lingers over the canals. I braced myself, thinking I may need a 'nosegay'… but found nothing of the sort!
Instead, what greeted me was a city that felt like pure magic. A colourful feast for the eyes, reflections dancing on the water, and centuries of history wrapped into every bridge and square. As expected, my camera hardly had a moment’s rest that day!
Back in the studio now, I’ve begun a new painting inspired by that visit. A canvas full of possibility, colour, and atmosphere. Alongside it, I’ve also finished two new works in my Stratford-Upon-Avon series, each one capturing the quiet, timeless charm of that historic town.
Venice and Stratford may be worlds apart, but both hold that sense of place I love to paint; fleeting moments frozen in time, waiting to find their forever homes.
And here’s something even better: starting September 1st (for a limited time only), if you place an order of £150 or more, you’ll be able to choose one of three different art print bundles as a FREE GIFT.
That’s three prints at no extra cost; yours to keep, or to share as presents!
So whether you’re planning ahead for Christmas gifts, or simply looking to bring more art into your own life, these bundles are a beautiful way to start.
The Power of a Favourite Song
A Story of Second Chances and Pride.
Have you noticed how the right song can change everything?
Classical music helps me focus in the studio, bright, bouncy beats lift me when I exercise, and a good old 80's anthem never fails to get me singing at the top of my lungs.
Music changes our mood; it soothes, uplifts, and energises. And I believe art does the very same. Just as you might put on a favourite song, having a favourite painting on the wall can bring back memories, shift the atmosphere of a room, or quietly lift your spirits when you need it most.
Which is why I always say don’t just choose a painting with your eyes; choose it with your heart.
There’s a little place in Cornwall I return to time and again. When the beaches are crowded and I need a cooling off dip, I head for a quiet stream a hidden gem away from the hubbub.
By the stream, tucked almost invisibly under years of undergrowth, sits an old wooden artist’s studio. For as long as I can remember, I’ve wondered about it, drooling over the fence! One day I saw a postman wading his way in to the door and, curious, I asked why. He told me it was still receiving post.
So I wrote a letter to the owner (and battled my way through to the letterbox). I didn't hear anything for months. I popped back periodically, only to see my letter still on the doormat. Then, months and months later, I received a phone message from the owner. She had decided to sell the studio and told me which agent to keep an eye on. Last week, I saw it finally go on the market. No services attached, just a simple wooden hut near my beloved stream; being auctioned at a starting guide price of £100k. Oh, how I long to buy it!
As a reminder of this very special place, I once painted it en plein air, right there by the water. That little painting now hangs above my bed, a daily reminder of the comfort and inspiration I find in that quiet, hidden spot, away from the crowds.
o0o
