This year marks 30 years since I held my first annual exhibition in Warwickshire, back in 1996. It's quite hard to believe that three decades have passed, but I'm pleased to say I'm still as enthusiastic about painting as ever, with no plans to put the brushes away just yet!
My first exhibition was held in a beautiful barn conversion near Loxley in Warwickshire. My daughter Daisy was just four weeks old at the time (probably not the best timing), and she's now 30! A rather good reminder of just how long I've been doing this.
Over the years, painting has taken me to some wonderful places, from the Cornish coastline and Scottish Highlands to villages and landscapes further afield. I've always enjoyed painting outdoors, working directly from the subject and trying to capture the changing light before it disappears. The weather doesn't always cooperate but that's all part of the fun!
Although I now live and paint in Cornwall, I've continued to return to Warwickshire each year for my annual exhibition. It's become a lovely tradition over the years, and I always enjoy bringing a new collection of paintings back to where it all began. It's also been great to see so many familiar faces returning year after year.
I'm certainly not short of enthusiasm and fully intend to carry on painting and exhibiting for another 30 years, all being well!
A big thank you to everyone who has visited my exhibitions, bought paintings and supported my work over the years, and of course to all the friends and family who have helped make them happen. It's very much appreciated!