Artist Statement

Colour and spontaneity are two touchstones of my painting. While I enjoy viewing many different styles and see value in most works I encounter, I keep returning to the impressionists and post-impressionists especially Vincent Van Gogh. Watercolour is my preferred medium when I want to wander and immerse myself in mostly natural surroundings. It's a habit I love.

Biography

Painting has long been an interest accompanying me through my journeys. It's always allowed me to branch out, meet wonderful people and be expressive. Sketching has become a joy, as I fill visual journals with records of my wanderings. I contribute pieces to on-line sites such as Loose Watercolour, Abstract Landscapes and Contemporary and Traditional Tonal Painting. I'm a member of TAS where I enjoy connecting to other artists. I particularly enjoy opportunities to submit work to rural and regional exhibitions: for example, Bell, Lockyer Valley, Warwick and here in Toowoomba.

Influences

I love obviously painterly work with brushstrokes and a certain indifference to perfection. Turner, Van Gogh, Margaret Olley and Craig Penny are just a few whose works amaze me. I deeply admire artists such as John Atkinson Grimshaw,  Clarice Beckett and Pierre Bonnard as well. Lately, I've been enjoying the water-colours of Nicolas Lopez from South America - stunning textural effects and his great belief that you are in dialogue with the water.

Awards

I've received local show awards and Highly Commended over the years from a small number of entries overall.

Exhibitions

Contributions to annual group exhibitions include TAS, OAG and Downlands. I enjoy supporting smaller regional exhibitions such as St Mark's in Warwick, Bell and the Lockyer Valley Foothills.