What I Do
I am a Somerset artist of traditional landscapes. I draw much of my inspiration from the beautiful Somerset countryside, and in particular the romantic Somerset Levels where the fragile habitat of the Avalon Marshes, just a few metres above sea level, is an intriguing and magical landscape full of history and wildlife.
An enthusiastic painter of skies, the flat landscape allows me full rein in my efforts to portray rapidly-changing light conditions, the effect of sunshine and shadow on the landscape, and the interplay of warm and cool colours.
My favourite locations also include the stunning coast of the Bristol Channel stretching between the Quantock Hills in the east to the craggy heights of the cliffs where Exmoor meets the sea to the west.
Sharing My Work
I’m passionate about what I do, and I’d like to share with you some of the pictures and sketches I have produced over the years, as well as some of my current output.
Our precious natural landscape is continually under threat. Forces such as those associated with climate change and urbanisation are nibbling away at our fields and woods, our hills and valleys.
I paint landscapes because I want to stir those who look at them to themselves be inspired to go out and view our surroundings through fresh eyes.
I welcome constructive feedback so feel free to comment by leaving me a message. You can also find me on Facebook.
My Journey
I first fell under the spell of painting 25 years ago when, in April 1991 I found myself sitting on a bench in the twilight looking out over Lake Geneva having ridden the steep rack railway down from Lausanne town centre to the lake shore at Ouchy. I could see the French Alps in the distance, their valleys deep in blue shadows, their peaks tipped with the fire of the setting sun. The lights of Evian twinkled on the dark far shore. A small sail boat drifted into view, and at that moment I heard art’s siren call. The next day I purchased an A4 spiral-bound sketchbook and a couple of pencils and went back to the lakeside, where I made my first drawing. Now I am not often without my basic kit, including a sketchbook and a selection of pens and pencils, and often a miniature watercolour paint box, or a pochade box of oils, brushes and small prepared panels.