In your own words, how would you describe your creative work?

I put my hands to any form of art, it depends on what my ideas are. I enjoy process art (focusing on the process, as opposed to the end product), as well as mixed media, printmaking, sculpture, drawing and painting. I experiment a lot with ideas and mediums in preparation for my teaching too. 

When did you first discover your passion for art?

I discovered a love of art at a very early age. As a young child I loved to draw and make things. 

What's the creative process?

For me it starts with a love of art materials and an urge to explore what they can do, along with inspiration from other artists, as well as from nature. I love the process of trying something small as a starting point, which then leads to lots of other ideas. I’m constantly writing lists of things I want you to try and things I want to teach. 

What does a typical day look like to you?

It depends on whether I’m teaching at school, teaching privately or running one of my classes at Meopham Mini Artists. When I’m not teaching or running classes I’m always preparing resources, gathering art materials, planning, testing out ideas and creating art for myself. I also have two young children, a husband and a dog, so my life is busy! My children love art too so I often do arty things with them at home. 

What have you learned most about yourself in recent times?

Prioritise time to do what makes you happy. 

Do you have any wisdom you can share with others who are thinking of launching a creative business?

Just stick with it even when things are slow. Have faith in yourself. You get out what you put in, so work hard. I started my tiny business 6 years ago but I didn’t do it for a financial profit for years. I was doing something for the community and sharing my passion for art and learning through play. My little business has grown very slowly, but I did it at my own pace and I only took on what I knew I could handle at the time. I really love what I do. It’s extremely rewarding. 

What is on your mind right now?

Lots of things. Planning for school (I teach there part time), getting my boxes packed for my next Meopham Mini Artists class, and I’m currently writing a list of art materials I need to buy for my Home Ed art group. 

I’m currently inspired by the art of Jim Dine. Having recently run an art workshop at the St George’s Arts Centre in Gravesend, based on the famous Jim Dine hearts, I feel I want to create more art inspired by this artist, and use these ideas in my teaching too. 

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