
A visit to the Botanical Gardens is a superb a day out at any time of the year. At Christmas I was given a year's subscription to this beautiful venue in Cambridge. I went many times during lockdown as it was a quiet, peaceful place to be due to the restricted visitors. Wandering through the gardens, each time I went I spotted something new.
I used a tall canvas and painted the two most recognisable parts of the place: the glasshouses and the fountain alongside a representation of, what is known as, the degree procession. The Gardens are part of Cambridge University and a lot of studying takes place here, but the garden is also a magnet for the locals to enjoy a beautiful green space close to the centre of Cambridge. I doubt if the degree ceremony goes through here but they represent the Gown in the title.
Painted in oil on canvas, I have made the usually immaculate lawns into a patchwork of wild flowers. I don't know how many hours/days I spent painting these millefleur with my canvas resting on the kitchen table but I was pleased when that fiddly part of the painting was completed!
I paint detailed, dream-like images in oils on canvas which incorporate rich night skies and a shining moon. Stories inspired by the detail and pattern of medieval art, tapestries and my imagination. My work is very influenced by the wonderful city of Cambridge where I live.
Photographs can never do justice to my paintings as they change when the light catches the silver or copper leaf. If you would like to view my actual paintings please contact me to arrange a visit to my studio. My work can also be seen at Byard Art, 14 King's Parade, Cambridge CB2 1SJ, opposite King's College Chapel and at Lux Gallery, 13 Greenfield Cres, Birmingham B15 3AU.
I also take part in Cambridge Open Studios every July where you can visit me in my home studios and 'have a go' at gilding.