Observational drawing forms the basis of both my practice and my teaching. As well as the serious business of developing visual acuity and maintaining or increasing technical proficiency, drawing provides a channel of calming focus and concentration.

Tonal value forms the structure of compositions and supports the use of a limited range of colours which may be harmonic or contrasting. I perceive the process of making an image as a series of problems which need solving. The more complex the solutions, the more satisfying I find the processes. As well as drawing with pencils, charcoal, inks and pastels and painting with watercolours, oils and acrylics, I use printmaking techniques, mixed media and collage.

Subject matter is varied, usually from direct observation of my environment but sometimes including elements of dream or allegory.

There are different ways to look at the resulting pieces of work, allowing each person to discover his or her own interpretations.