I originally trained in ceramics at teacher training college in the late 60’s and later went to Birmingham College of Art in the early 70’s, enjoying the freedom of the era, yet specialising in drawing, painting and sculpture. I lectured in art at Warwick University in the heady 70’s and again in the mid/late 90’s, prior to full retirement. I also worked as an Art Adviser for Coventry Education Authority for many years, working with teachers, trying to get them to ensure that pupils of all ages become involved in art and see this involvement as essential. In support of this I arranged exhibitions and taught art to teachers, students, children of all ages - and even their parents. I have exhibited my work across the midlands, London and now in North Devon. I retired from full time work in the mid 90’s and along occasional educational work, returned to producing and exhibiting my own work.
|
Alongside a working life involved in art education, I have always produced my own work. I remain interested in the importance of drawing, believing that this gives people the understanding and confidence to develop ideas in a wide range of media.
My recent drawings are often based on photographs that I have taken with a digital camera. These are then developed as linear drawings which are devoid of colour and texture. Only when the lines and shapes appear resolved are the colours and textures considered. Squirrel-like, I collect anything that I feel might be of use to my work and I am currently on my 20th scrapbook of illustrations. I also keep all my sketchbooks and often use them for inspiration and reference.
Much of my current work explores a combination of watercolour and pencil crayon. This approach gives me a freedom to work quickly with watercolour and spend time pointing up essential areas of texture with pencil crayons and therefore keep the essential structure of the original drawings.
|
