I am an amateur artist with no formal qualifications in art past A level. Despite being steered towards art as a career by both family and my teacher training college, I became a science teacher. I took early ill health retirement at 45 due to Progressive Spinal Collapse and was persuaded to take up art again by my wife.

I certainly do not have an in depth knowledge of art or artists either historical or contemporary, however, like many others I know what I like and can appreciate that others have different views. I’m embarrassed to say that watching others paint either live or on TV is literally like watching paint dry! I must confess to having picked up a few tips from other artists but I would much rather take part in a workshop to learn.

I’ve tried most mediums and whilst I have a few watercolours under my belt, my technique tends towards an acrylic style yet I have never tried acrylics or oils (to date). I prefer something with wood round it. Pencils, pencil crayons and pencil pastels are my favourite mediums. I’m happiest using these and I love detail.  I like photo realism very much and the challenge to recreate reality in another medium other that photographic. I suppose my best medium is pencil and my favourite subject is anything detailed.