What inspired you to pick up a brush/pencil and start painting/drawing?

I've always felt a creative urge from a very young age. Art has been my way of connecting with the world and expressing thoughts that often reside deep in my subconscious. There’s a certain magic in bringing an object or image to life—something that resonates with my inner self and sparks a dialogue beyond words. Painting and drawing allow me to explore and give form to these unspoken emotions and ideas

When did your love of art start? Did you always want to be an artist?

My love for art began as early as I can remember, nurtured by growing up in a very artistic family. Drawing and creating have always been natural parts of my life. Whether the passion for art is something you're born with or grow to love, I can't say for sure—perhaps it's a bit of both. Over time, my interest expanded to include art history and philosophy, all of which have become enduring passions. Even when I pursued other careers earlier in life, I always found myself drawn back to painting and art—it feels like an essential part of who I am. It is an urge that has allowed me to practice art professionally for over two decades now.

What would be your advice for new artists just starting up?

My advice to other artists starting out is simple: never play to the gallery. Focus on creating work that moves and inspires you. Authenticity is key—when your work reflects your true vision, it will resonate with others in meaningful ways. There will always be people out there who connect with what you create, but that connection starts with staying true to yourself.

What is the best tip you were told early in your career?

What you're good at may not always be your passion. Find the thing you're passionate about and you will become great at it.

How has social media helped your career?

Social media, particularly Instagram, has been a great tool for sharing my work with a wider audience and connecting with a global community of artists. It’s amazing to be part of a network where creativity is celebrated and ideas are exchanged. This sense of community can be incredibly supportive, especially in a career like art, where you often work alone.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from a deep drive to create - I simply feel compelled to go into the studio and paint most days. The images I create are often inspired by nature, Buddhist philosophy, and the concept of simply 'being in the moment.' There’s also immense joy in bringing to life something new, like a 'baby' that can now enter the world and go on its own journey. Watching a piece take on its own identity and connect with others is one of the most rewarding parts of being an artist.

What is your favourite Daler-Rowney product and why?

My favorite Daler-Rowney product is the System 3 acrylic. It offers excellent pigment intensity and coverage while remaining reasonably priced, making it especially useful for painting large surfaces. Whilst I do use other paints, its balance of quality and affordability makes it an indispensable part of my creative process.

What is a technique that you haven't tried yet that you would love to try & why?

I’ve experimented with so many techniques that, to be honest, there’s nothing I’m aware of that I haven’t tried. What I would love to do, though, is create a large painting with thickly applied layers of paint - Frank Auerbach style!. However, the cost of the volumes of paint needed for such a piece is currently a limitation—but it’s definitely a dream for the future!

What are some of your artistic achievements?

Above all, the fact that I can be a professional artist, doing what I love, is my greatest achievement. I've been blessed to have my work appreciated and collected both locally and internationally. I’ve had the honour of being selected for membership of both the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists and the Manchester Academy of Fine Art. My paintings have appeared on magazine and catalogue covers, and they’re been selected for the Royal Institute of Oil Painters' annual exhibition at the Mall Galleries in London. In 2022, one of my pieces was chosen for the new London Raffles Hotel collection, and this year, I was thrilled to win first prize at the Royal Birmingham Society’s Summer Exhibition.