I was a secondary teacher for over 30 years before becoming more involved in the art world. When I started painting, I very quickly realised that soft pastels was the artform which excited me - I love the immediacy of the medium, the vibrancy and ability to combine with other media. I am an animal portrait artist and receive commissions from all over the country for (mainly) dog portraits, but really love to paint landscapes, especially en plein air. As an experienced teacher, demonstrator and tutor, I enjoy sharing my passion for pastels and will personalise my teaching, whether students are novices or more experienced painters.