I was born and raised in Cockermouth, Cumbria as were my parentsand grandparents and generations before that.  I have traced my family tree to the early 17th Century, with links to William Wordsworth, Border Reivers and other events in local Cumbrian folklore and history.  

My first love and career choice was that of Artist, but as a youngster with aspiring tastes that cost money I soon realised how difficult it can be to make a living out of an artistic career.  So, second choice, I graduated as a Mechanical Engineer and worked in Cumbria until 2009, having played a lead role in the establishment of Art and Engineering projects globally.  

My South African experience began in 1972 where I was seconded to work for 5 years.  

In 1996 I returned to South Africa for a holiday and was immediately struck by the space, colours and artistic representations that had eluded me as an engineer in those early days.  I was drawn to  new ways of seeing and experiencing art and the environment. 

In 2000 I was involved in establishing a gallery of African Art in Cumbria.  Art of Africa Gallery hosted artists, curated exhibitions and teaching sessions and I generally had a good time researching the African Art scene!  Although art has always been my relaxation and hobby, it is really during this lockdown period of 2020 that I have truly realised my passion.  I resolved to produce a painting each day of lockdown - that was before I realised we would be locked down for many days!  I produce works from my everyday experiences, memories and photographs.  My medium is watercolour, ink, pastels and acrylics.  My subjects are as diverse as portraits, animals and buildings.  My favourite subjects are influenced by the lived experiences of the Lake District and the Western Cape.

I have finally become what I wanted to be.  I am happy to be the Artist.