#27: When People See What I Didn’t See
One of the most surprising things about sharing my paintings is when someone sees something in the work that I didn’t. In this post, I reflect on how art takes on new meaning in the eyes of others — and why that’s one of the best parts of the process.
#25: Why I Sometimes Work on Sundays
Yesterday, I found myself in the studio on a quiet Sunday — not because I had to, but because I wanted to. In this post, I explore the difference between duty and desire, and how balancing work and rest is part of what keeps the painting — and me — alive.
#24: Sealing the Story: Finding the Right Varnish for Each Painting
As I finish my latest paintings for the art show, I’m realising how much those final layers of varnish matter — not just for protection, but for mood, presence, and the quiet dignity of letting the work stand on its own.
#23: Knowing When to Stop: Finding My Limits in the Studio
I love getting lost in the work — but I’ve learned that the best paintings don’t come from endless hours alone. In this post, I explore how family time, exercise, and quiet pauses outside the studio all shape the work I do when I return.
#22: The Space Around the Painting: Why the Studio Matters
The studio doesn’t just contain the work — it shapes it. In this post, I reflect on the mood, movement, and small rituals of my workspace, and how the space around the canvas quietly becomes part of the painting itself.
#21: The Countdown Canvas: Creating for Holmfirth Artweek Under Pressure
As Holmfirth Artweek approaches, my studio has become a swirl of colour, energy, and urgency. There's something about a deadline that sharpens the brush and fuels bold decisions. This post captures that electric rush — the chaos, the clarity, and the joy of creating when time is tight.
#20: Not Always About Art: The Unlikely Inspirations Behind My Work
Inspiration doesn’t always come from a gallery. Lately, mine’s come from comedy podcasts, nostalgic indie tracks, and an unforgettable Flat Moon gig involving a theremin and a gold telephone. Here's how these unexpected influences are sneaking into my paintings.