I grew up in Belfast and later moved to Manchester to study art and drama for my degree course. I went on to work as a professional actor for many years and then as a lecturer in English. During this period, I found time to draw and paint when I could. 

I left teaching in 2021 and took up painting full-time. I refocused my skills by attending courses in painting and drawing at the City Lit, the Slade School of fine Art and Royal Drawing School, in London. I see myself as mostly self-taught.

My work is rooted in my love of poetry and the natural world. The paintings encompass the sense of other worldliness by using symbolism, dreams and nature. I aim to communicate an emotional state rather than portray the actual world we live in. 

I see painting as a lifelong journey where my work continues to develop.