Hi everyone so this is my first blog post on my new website. I am so pleased you have taken the time to look at what I do.

I am a self taught artist who paints from a small cob cottage in a village nestled in the lanes and rolling hills of Mid Devon.  I  painted for many years without showing anyone except very close family and friends. But around 4 years ago I tentatively showed my art to some work colleagues, they were very complimentary and one even asked if she could buy a painting! A seed was sown. So I hope you enjoy seeing what I paint and where my painting will lead me  ........

Rachel

I am so pleased to say that here I am 6 years later still painting, and more importantly still enjoying what I do 

2022, was a difficult year for many of us, and I continue to cope with some health issues and a body that doesn't always do what I want it to. That said however last year was a good one, for me. I continued to paint and continued to have people pay their hard earned money for my work.

I brought out my own calendar, for the first time.

I had no idea how many to order, or what people would think, I am so lucky that nearly all of them have sold, and I have some pointers for next year... but any comments from any of you will be gratefully received.

I also published a book for the first time ever, of my swimming women along with my poems . I was so thrilled by the response it got. I shall continue selling them , for as long as people show an interest, Thankyou so much to anyone who bought one.

This year has been a year of firsts...but also a year to consolidate what I do. I have continued to paint as often as I can , discovered a new way to paint light. I love to master new things and when the result is pleasing it is such a joy.

 Continued to challenge myself with portraits

and seascapes

 It has been a year to try to get better at subjects I love too, Like a swan landing.

A year when I got a runners up prize for one of my bees

and another highlight was getting into the Wildlife Artist of the Year exhibition this year with my crow piece.

Oh I have had my failures too...but I learn from them and move on

I have been lucky enough to create new commissions for people, and I find great joy , especially when a painting is loved by the recipient.

The end of the year brought new challenges , postal strikes, items not arriving. Having to issue refunds through no fault of my own, but such is the lot of a small business that relies on Royal Mail.

All in all 2022 was a good year, and in 2023 I will try my best to keep painting, keep trying new things and keep challenging myself, as I have found if I take risks, nine times out of ten, they pay off.

Happy New Year to all of you, your input , your comments and your support is wonderful , thank you x