I was born in Whitechapel, East London, England. Childhood was tough, I had no formal art education or degree. But I came out of school with very good grades but I wasn’t impressed with the further art education on offer.

So, I decided to teach myself. In between working in stores and offices, I voraciously read about and practiced my craft. This is where I had an advantage, galleries on my doorstep and the best art suppliers within easy reach.

I’ve drawn statues in the British Museum at weekends, sketched while commuting using watersoluble pencils and charcoal. That’s fun at 6am on a November morning on a freezing train! I’ve used my mothers pans for melting glue for making canvas size. Try explaining why you needed to do that to a lady trying to make supper for my father who’s been working on railway tracks in the freezing cold all day!

I found my true place in the 90’s at The Mall Galleries, London. I submitted a piece to the Royal Marine Society and it was accepted. From there I joined the Hesketh Hubbard Society life classes and practiced weekly to improve observation and view the artworks around me. To see what was possible, how to exhibit and meet fellow artists.

Many group shows followed since then along with commissions and retail opportunities. I’ve learned a lot, met many incredible and talented people and continue to do so.