B A C K G R O U N D

1978 - 79 Dyfed Art College, Carmarthen, Wales
Art Foundation Course
!979 - 82 Bristol Polytechnic, England
BA(Hons) Graphic Design

I was a rather reluctant student of Graphic Design in Bristol. Although realising that my interest lay more in Fine Art,
I lacked the courage and self discipline to change courses.
Following graduation in 1982, I embarked on a career in design but clung to the hope that at some stage I would focus
my attention on painting.

After several years of self employment, disillusionment caught up with me and an escape to the Scottish Highlands provided
the time and space for some much needed introspection.
The impact of the landscape and the freedom from deadlines and design briefs transformed my yearning to paint
into a compulsion. Very little else mattered and the subsequent months were spent undergoing the metamorphosis
from designer to Fine Artist.
There were many failures as I nervously formulated my responses to elements of the landscape.

Eventually I had a body of work together and began to approach galleries. Their acceptance of my work furnished me
with a self belief and direction that I had previously been lacking.
A roller coaster of highs and lows consume my working life as the demands of family life and financial burdens impose upon
precious studio time.
I enjoy my employment as a part time tutor but while providing essential income, it sometimes clutters the mind and saps the energy.
When I encounter receptive students whose responses are beyond the norm, I feel invigorated.
In spite of some necessary forays into commissioned work I remain focussed on the continuous development of my painting.