These paintings are worked up from initial en plein air studies back in the studio. Generally on a larger scale, they use mountboard as a base,  then charcoal or ink to create expressive mark making , an under painting in acrylic paint , then a coat of clear gesso and pastel on top .
 I was introduced to this way of working with pastels after taking part in inspirational work shops at Coombe Studios with artist Sarah Bee and later at Heatherleys Art School with Katrina Wallis King.   I love the fascinating, multi layered surface that this creates. 

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Pastel and acrylic  paintings

This was created in response to an exhibition at Himley Hall.
It is a series of papier-mâché dolls exploring the idea of French fashion and the concept of travel and arranging curiosities and treasures in boxes.
The dolls were made with papier mache, pipe cleaners and fabric , stitched in place with bits of discarded silks and vintage cottons and embroidery. 

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Cabinets of Curiosities

Drawing is integral to my practise. I like to take time to try to understand the subject through careful looking and drawing , often using charcoal.

 I also use small Moleskine concertina sketchbooks and charcoal in a tiny tin which fits in my pocket. Taking the time to make a drawing keeps the memories of how I felt at the time and brings it straight back to me.

During lockdown I went out every day and created a series of 5 little sketchbooks- drawing every day in the woods at the back of our house.

Since then I have continued to draw and it forms the  basis of all my work. 

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Drawings & sketchbooks

These Pastel paintings were all made ‘en plain air’, in the immediacy of the landscape -I absolutely love working outside and getting lost in observing the ever changing light and colours. The majority of these works are pastels and charcoal . 