I have been interested in art and crafts and the outdoors for most of my life. I have always had the need to be creative and enjoyed the calming effect of it.
In earlier years, sailing on the west coast of Scotland and walking all over Scotland with a walking group most weekends showed me the beauty of the natural environment. I was drawn especially to coastal and remote places with their large seascapes and skyscapes and their distinct colour palette.
In 2008, I returned to Scotland due to family illness which allowed me the time and opportunity to pick up my brushes and dust off my sewing machine again. I became involved again in arts and crafts through clubs, classes and workshops and with the friendly help and encouragement of others in the local creative arts community.
I began painting with watercolours moving on to oil paints and pastels. My work is inspired by coastal, island and country scenes, boats and bird life, drawing on the natural environment and the colours which attract me.
I paint in my home studio mainly from some of the thousands of photos I have taken while travelling around the country.
I also produce textile art such as art quilts, bags and cushions incorporating quality materials such as Harris Tweed, Liberty prints and tartan.
Having been a long term fan of recycle, re-use and repurpose, I incorporate recycled embroideries and tapestries in the designs.
