Seeing the Natural World through the eyes of an artist.
Have you ever paused to marvel at the intricate patterns in a seashell or the way sunlight dances across weathered timber? As an artist, I’ve spent a lifetime immersed in the subtle beauty of the natural world, uncovering its hidden stories and translating them into colour, texture, and form. My art is more than paint on a canvas—it’s an invitation to see the world through fresh eyes, to reconnect with the wonder of nature, and to reflect on the memories and moments that shape our lives. Join me as I explore how the forces of nature and the layers of time inspire creativity, curiosity, and connection.
As an artist, my work is deeply rooted in expressing the connection between humanity and the natural world. Painting offers me a way to communicate not just through colour, but through the serendipity of the materials I use. I strive to create art that not only reflects my vision but encourages others to play, feel freer, and explore their own creative expression. For me, this journey is about more than just the finished piece; it's about the process, the discovery, and the freedom that comes with creating something meaningful.
My photography serves as an extension of this. I focus on the fine details of the world around us—the intricate patterns found in rock strata, ice, frost, waves, and the patterns left in the sand after water recedes. I’m fascinated by these moments of natural design, the evidence of time and movement, that many may overlook.
Over the years, I've developed a habit of collecting bits of nature that intrigue me—whether it's the delicate structure of seed heads, the texture of weathered timber, or the unique growth of mosses and lichens. These found objects not only inspire my work but often find their way into my home, as part of a space that reflects the history and layers of time that influence my art. There's something about the muted tones of natural stone, weathered wood, and the neutral colors of the earth that resonates deeply with me. It's as if each piece carries a story, a memory of its origin.
In many ways, I see myself as a collector of memories. My connection to nature goes beyond the aesthetic—I hold sentimental attachments to the places and objects that have shaped my experiences. Through my art, I aim to communicate these connections. I want people to see not just color and form but depth, light, and hope. I want them to feel intrigued, drawn into the complexity of what lies beneath the surface.
More than anything, I want my art to evoke wonder—an invitation to pause and consider the intricacies and beauty of the natural world, the forces that shape it, and how we, as humans, are intertwined with those forces. There’s a sense of jeopardy in nature, a delicate balance that I hope people will reflect on when they experience my work. It’s a reminder that our world is far larger and more complex than we can fully comprehend.
The roots of this connection stretch back to my childhood, where my love of the natural world was first sparked. I spent countless hours playing in the garden under the elm trees, building fires, and gazing into the depths of the flames. Whether it was at home or around a campfire, I found myself mesmerized by the flickering light, feeling both the warmth and mystery of those moments.
My father was a fisherman, and our time together often brought us to remote, breathtaking places to fish. I don’t ever remember feeling bored during those trips. Looking back, I think I was quietly absorbing the beauty of the world around me—soaking in the solitude, the landscapes, the water, the sky. It became a part of me.
Today, I live close to the countryside, where I continue to explore and draw inspiration from nature. My early experiences at school also played a role in shaping my perspective. Nestled near a range of hills, the words from Psalm 121—“I lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help”—always felt significant to me. While I am not particularly religious, there was something profound about that connection to the land. Standing on top of those hills, looking out at the ancient landscape, I felt a sense of peace and continuity that has never left me.
Ultimately, my work is about sharing that sense of connection—between the past and the present, between humanity and nature, and between the seen and unseen. I want to create spaces where people can wonder, reflect, and feel a part of something greater than themselves. In doing so, I hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the memories we collect from it.
These are lofty ambitions, and I know it will take a lifetime of exploration and creation to even come close to realising them—but that’s exactly what makes the journey so fulfilling.