Altea: Number 6

This painting depicts an old doorway in the historic streets of Altea, Valencia, captured at dawn when the town is still quiet. The scene is lit by the last glow of a streetlight and the first cool light of morning, creating a simple contrast between warm and cool tones. Soft shadows fall across the cobblestones, adding depth without overwhelming the composition.

A small cat walks near the base of the doorway, watching the street with calm curiosity. Its presence adds a touch of life to the otherwise still scene and offers a sense of everyday familiarity.

The painting aims to capture an ordinary moment in an old town coming slowly into the day, highlighting the quiet atmosphere and the subtle character found in places that have been lived in for generations.

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I loved to draw and paint from a very early age. I was fascinated by the capability of artists to bring to life the world around them; to represent form, light and shade; to create three dimensions within two.

Simultaneously I was drawn to photography. From my earliest self-processed black and white prints to the sophistication of modern digital manipulation, I have always taken pictures.

In my professional life I established and ran successful creative businesses in London, Luxembourg, Malaga, Berlin and Sydney. I held senior roles in prominent design practices and advertising agencies, including the creative directorship of Europe's first online service.

More recently I taught design at universities and design schools in Sydney, Australia and Southern Spain with particular focus upon sustainable design thinking, human-centred design and developing successful design practice.

I began my career as a junior illustrator in London. It's therefore appropriate that with more time on my hands these days I should return to my first love.