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I was born in 1960, and from an early age was convinced that I was a fairy. I used to dress up in what I would consider a very fairy like manner and wait for everyone to notice how wonderful I was.
 When I was about 5 my father showed me a Bellini Deposition, showing the crucified Christ held in his mother’s arms. Until then I had only seen pretty images and pictures suitable for children. This Deposition was intense, powerful, raw, beautiful and very shocking. I was thrilled by it, and connected very deeply with the power and passion in the painting. I link my desire to be a painter with that first encounter with the extraordinary effect great art can have. I have never forgotten that moment of truth. It had no effect on me being a fairy though, I was just an inspired fairy.
I studied for a Masters degree in Art History. I chose to write my dissertation on the religious frescoes of the Italian artist Pietro Annigonni; his powerful and dramatic work affected me in the same way as the Bellini Deposition. I was privileged to have his help and guidance and consider him a very great and kind man.
My painting has grown over the years, from when my three children were tiny, and I had to fit it in at night and in the quiet moments in between endless meals – to now, when they are older and independent. I know about starting from scratch, and I know how good and alarming it is somehow to follow your star.
I live and paint in West Sussex, my studio is in my garden. I am thrilled to paint Portraits, and love the creation of a new and unique painting with each commission. My Religious works are full of questions and humour, much of which I think is missing from religion. My Ladies – my Ladies celebrate real women. Like me.
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