I was born in Malaysia to Scottish parents who managed a rubber plantation.
As a child I constantly drew and painted. When I was not doing that, I would sneak stray and injured animals’ home to add to my menagerie. Art and animals have always been an important part of my life.
I studied Chinese brush painting in Malaysia entrenching my passion for watercolour. After completing my education in Scotland, I travelled and worked in Europe before moving to Australia in 1990.
I am aware of the frightening rate that our planet’s flora and fauna is becoming threatened or extinct and I often reflect this in some of my paintings.
I also explore and paint other subjects including the human form.
I take inspiration from nature and animals. In my studio I am kept company by my three dogs, one of which would spend the day lying on my desk if I let him.
I start my painting process with a period of contemplation deciding on composition and colour combinations. As I start painting, I fall into a place of quiet feeling where time and thinking disappear. I become swept up with the unrestrained flow of the watercolour. Painting for me is a passion and a precious way to portray beautiful souls.