My inspiration has always come from my immediate surroundings, locally, or when travelling, my interest in texture, pattern and colour and the influence of many artists.
I studied at RGU (Grays School of Art) in the 1970s, graduating with a Diploma in Art (Ceramics and Sculpture) in 1975. A post graduate study year at Grays followed and I won a travel scholarship based on the my post graduate work. I gained a Batchelor of Arts degree in 1980. My art teaching career began in 1977 and I returned in 2012 after an eight year spell as an Education Support Officer with the Moray Council
As an art student I had initially considered specialising in either graphic design, or printmaking. However, I discovered clay in my second year and immediately fell in love with the medium.
My ceramics have evolved over the years becoming more expressive and sculptural . My interest in graphics and printmaking has always influenced my ceramics, but even more so as I began working full time again in my home studio.
My present work is mainly influenced by the culture and the varied landscape of Scotland. Pieces are created from combinations of thrown, slab and coiled elements. The surface decoration is probably the most import element for me and I enjoy the challenge of marrying the drawn surface with each built form. I usually begin with quick sketches based on photographs I have taken. These develop into more detailed drawings and colour studies. These initial ideas can become either paintings , or ceramic pieces. Once I begin working with the clay some of the initial ideas are left behind as the clay forms take on a life of their own.