Trained as a Primary School Teacher in the Midlands of England in the 60s, my focus has always been the Arts. I studied Art in: Birmingham, England; Waterloo; Toronto; Dundas Valley and Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario.
During my 34 years of teaching, I constantly worked to encourage spontaneity and motivate creativity in children in England (Birmingham & Hertfordshire) and here in Canada (Oakville & Milton). Now that I have retired from teaching, I am able to concentrate more fully on my own interests: art, literature and poetry.
Delighting in art all my life, especially as a student in the 60s and 70s, I am happy to spend more time now on my own artwork. The work is mostly acrylic paintings; however I also use ink, watercolours and any media at hand. My subjects vary from realistic scenes and pictures to a visual exploration of patterns and shapes. I am fascinated by people and enjoy creating portraits. These I can do from life or from photographs. I have had great success working with old snapshots taken many years ago. I enjoy printmaking, especially monotypes using natural materials. My experiments in artwork occasionally involve soft sculpture, puppets, applique and quilting. Collage pictures are also an interest of mine, using all kinds of assorted paraphernalia. Overall, I love to experiment with new ideas and varied media.
My artwork and books can be seen at different times and in various places around Milton: in some Doctor’s offices; cafes; the FASM Gallery in the Milton Mall; the Holcim Gallery and each year during the Studio Tour at Waldies’ Blacksmiths’ Shop.
I enjoy writing children’s novels and poetry. Occasionally I visit area schools to inspire, motivate and share my illustrations and stories.
In the past I volunteered for about 20 years at Martindale Gardens Seniors Residence in Milton. I enjoy mentoring teens and anyone who asks for help with their art or story /poetry writing.
I have also edited stories etc when needed.
For a few years I have written articles for the Milton Villager Magazine. This well-illustrated publication is an attractive, informative monthly look at events, people and places in Milton, Ontario.