Following a 35 year career in teaching I left to become an sculptor. I had a life time love of this art form, and whilst I was teaching I studied woodcarving with an experienced carver and great teacher called John White. Once the decision was made to take up art professionally I went on to train with internationally renowned master woodcarver Michael Painter. I am now working as an independent carver and sculptor, selling my work and teaching wood carving. I am an Artist in Residence at the University of Chester which involves working with other artists and students in the Department of Art and Design.
I have a love for the unique warmth and character of carved wood, and have a passion for bringing out its natural beauty. Since then I have gained experience through completing a wide variety of traditional and contemporary woodcarvings and sculptures including signs, relief pieces, traditional woodcarving, I am happiest working on contemporary three dimensional sculptures.
I find inspiration in the natural world, emotions and the world in which we live and I increasingly combine my ideas about these to produce my own unique, original pieces of contemporary sculpture.
My sculptural works are hand carved using traditional techniques. I work in a wide variety of sustainably sources and repurposed woods such as lime, beech, yew and cherry. Works are finished with Danish oil and Beeswax to enhance the grain and bring out the depth of the natural colour of the wood. As such my collection is both beautiful and ecologically sound.
I have signs in local parks and gardens, and have sold my work in a number of local galleries and shops including The Lake Gallery, The Barn, Sea Grass, Stacks, Tate Aisle Gallery, Williamson Gallery and with Wirral Open Studios. I currently have a residency at the University of Chester which is opening up some great opportunities. I accept commissions and have completed a number over the years.
I am passionate about sharing traditional woodcarving techniques and I teach woodcarving to individuals or small groups from my workshop in Heswall.