1. Can you describe your creative process? How do you typically start and develop a new piece of artwork?
My creative process is fairly organic springing from a single idea I develop it actually on the panel I am working on. Consequently, it goes through many changes. Technically I work in layers of fairly thin paint to try and get a depth of colour not easily achieved with acrylics. I also use the transparent qualities of acrylics to reveal the under painting.
2. Can you share a memorable or challenging moment from your artistic journey that had a significant impact on your growth as an artist?
I am now 70 years old and my artistic journey has been lifelong changing and developing with every life experience. Being a single parent of two young children and struggling financially has all added to that experience. The many jobs I undertook and crises I went through gave me insights to all aspects of society. Art was my personal release and form of expression.
3. Are there recurring symbols or motifs in your work, and what do they represent to you?
I am highly influenced by surrealism and symbolism and often use symbolic images in my work. The most common are crows ( good and bad omens) cockerel ( hope and good luck)) snake ( rebirth) ballon’s which I regard as desires/ happiness and general birds as a sense of freedom or lost chances.
4. Can you discuss the role of art in society, and how do you believe your work contributed to the broader cultural conversation?
I think Art has a major role in society, not only to reflect political and cultural ideas/ protest and beliefs but to provide an emotional reaction to simple things such as colour, form and beauty. Interpretation of art in all its forms provide a continuing cultural conversation as it can be a personal and subjective view unique to each individual.
5. Do you have a favorite piece of your own work? If so, what makes it special to you?
My favourite piece of art I completed last year and is called Strings Attached. I virtually painted my own life story centred around a puppet image. Essentially about control, life’s expectations (especially of women) and how we can fight back to be a stronger more resilient person. It was a very personal piece which gave me great satisfaction to paint, and I was delighted it was chosen to be exhibited in the RA summer exhibition this year. The lady who bought it commented that “it spoke to her” No artist could wish for a greater accolade
than that.
