I studied Fine Art then did an OU degree in Art History and Philosophy. I lived and worked in Dumfries & Galloway, teaching adults, setting up two galleries and involved from its initiation with ‘Spring Fling’, the region’s open studio trail. Now a Cumbrian neighbour, I take part as a ‘Springback’.

I work in a studio situated between the eastern fells of the Lake District and the limestone of the Westmorland Dales. I use oil on canvas or board to make semi-abstract paintings. Ideas come from explorations of place / history / natural history / land use. Observation combines with maps, memory and imagination.

For a ‘Light Up Eden’ commission in 2021, I experimented with digital / manual collages, combining imagery, photographs and text, to celebrate themes of rebirth and growth. Printed and laminated A3, the results were displayed outdoors around Shap, then reproduced as cards in packs of eight for sale as ‘Hills of the North’. Further packs have followed including ‘Solway’ and ‘Autumn Haiku’.

I also design and hand-knit cushion covers – the patterns based on two colour traditions. I enjoy putting together coloured Shetland wools almost as much as I enjoy mixing oil paint.