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. 

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.