MA(RCA) SWLA
ABOUT ME
Photo: David and Gertie (German Wirehaired Pointer), Mull
A Lifelong Passion for Wildlife and Art
Born in 1969 and raised in Doncaster, my love for painting and drawing began early, with animals and birds always at the heart of my work. This passion guided me through school and beyond, culminating in a degree in Graphics and Illustration at Leeds.
Mastering Natural History Illustration
From 1993 to 1995, I completed a Master’s in Natural History Illustration at the Royal College of Art in London, where I had the privilege of studying under renowned artists John Norris Wood and David Boys. This experience deepened my understanding of the natural world and its artistic expression.
Society of Wildlife Artists (SWLA)
In 1992, I became a professional member of the Society of Wildlife Artists (SWLA), an honour that has shaped much of my career. Highlights include participating in the SWLA New Forest Project from 1999–2000, an initiative dedicated to preserving and celebrating natural landscapes.
Curlew Action Ambassador
As a Curlew Action Ambassador, I’m proud to support efforts to save one of the world’s most threatened birds. Curlews, once a familiar sight, are now in crisis. Through my art and advocacy, I aim to raise awareness and contribute to their conservation.
Published Wildlife Books
My work as an author and illustrator includes a range of solo and collaborative publications:
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Otter Shores (2011)
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True to Form (2007)
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On the Edge (2005)
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Drawn to the Forest (2000)
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Modern Wildlife Painters (1999)
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Copper River Delta (1998)
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Flight of the Cranes (1995)
Each book captures a unique aspect of wildlife and reflects my lifelong journey as an artist and naturalist.
Wildlife Art: A Dynamic Expression
My artwork is a vibrant and intimate response to the natural world, shaped by field sketches, on-site observations, and travels across the UK. I work in various media, including watercolour, acrylic, and oil, and have recently embraced 3D woodcuts to bring a new dimension to my creations.
"Light penetrates the crystal water, intricate shapes dance on the silt eight feet below. A narrow channel runs through the centre of the canal. Water lilies and weed choke the shallows. It's a semi permeable surface allowing only the lightest entities to travel over or land without sinking. Shadows are cast by this floating canopy of pads. Vivid yellow flowers and bulb like seed heads act as a nursery to many different species of fishfry, zipping through the forest of lily stems to avoid the predatory perch and pike. In the split second of an attack a shoal hurl themselves into the air. Damselflies scatter, many still clasped tail to head in a reproductive clinch. Dragon and Damselflies are what draw me to Pocklington Canal, a habitat rich in these jewel like insects, and a sign of a clean and healthy ecosystem."
Extract from True to Form
CONTACT ME
Loved what you’ve seen?
Whether you’re interested in purchasing artwork or securing a signed copy of Otter Shores or True to Form, I’d love to hear from you.
Let’s bring the beauty of wildlife into your home. Use the contact form to get in touch today!