Blog

The Unexpected Email

A behind-the-scenes look at how Atmospheric Landscapes: Using Oils and Cold Wax came to life — from the first unexpected email to the final printed book. This series shares the messy, surprising, and rewarding process of turning years of painting experience into words on a page.

Boundaries is an exhibition inspired by two years exploring the North York Moors National Park. The paintings explore the physical and historic features—wetlands, riggs, ancient pathways, and holloways—that shape and divide the landscape. Presented alongside poetry by Nick Allen, the exhibition reveals the traces of human history and natural forces, inviting viewers to experience the moors as rich, layered, and alive with hidden stories.

I have had two solo exhibitions with Studio Vault over the years and I love having my work with there so you can imagine how thrilled I was to be one of just a handful of artists invited to exhibit as part of the ten-year anniversary show. Emily doesn’t usually set themes for exhibitions—she encourages artists to create from instinct and inspiration. But for this show, I wanted to reflect her joyful celebration of colour.

Saltaire Art Gallery recently invited me to speak at the Saltaire Arts Trail—an inspiring celebration of local creativity. In this piece, I share how I made the transition from a university career to becoming a full-time artist, building a sustainable art practice rooted in place, process, and passion.

I am returning to Birch Tree Gallery in Edinburgh for a solo exhibition and I have 16 brand new paintings. The exhibition opens on Saturday 19 October until 16 November 2024.

My latest site visit to the North York Moors, this time moving a little further down the Esk Valley and exploring Glaisdale Rigg with its wonderful stone way markers, old packhorse roads, lost pathways and boggy moors!