What is your artist background?
I studied a 2 year art and design programme at 6th form College in the UK, then went on to do a degree in textile design at Falmouth University. I retrained as a teacher in 2023 so now I work part-time teaching technology and art as well as doing my own painting and ceramics.
When did you start doing your art?
I’ve always drawn, painted and made things. But when I had my three children I had a long break from creating. I finally started again after my third child was born by dabbling in making things and then doing resin art. But I started painting again about 6 years ago.
How do you describe your artwork style?
It’s a mixture between abstract landscapes and still life, but it is always colourful and inspired by light and nostalgia. I love to find beauty in ordinary things, and I especially love painting glassware.
Have you always done your field of art or was there other types of art that you have done? If so, what types?
I started creating resin art and did that for a couple of years back in 2018. Then I moved onto abstract landscapes and later I taught myself still life, and most recently hand built ceramics.
What is the best/ideal environment for you when creating your artwork?
I prefer working in my studio, with a podcast on. I mostly listen to comedy podcasts, or ones about improving wellbeing. I do often work at the kitchen table though, such as when I have time pressure and need to get as much painting in as possible. Then I just have to listen to the noise in the house!
Who is your hero? / Who do you admire the most? And why?
Honestly I just admire all of my creative female friends who constantly inspire me and lift me up. It’s not easy juggling motherhood and work with also being creative so having those friends in my life is really important and inspirational. Also my husband who’s constantly striving to learn and is always so supportive of me.
What values are important to you?
Kindness, empathy, honesty.
Any advice for aspiring NZ artists?
It’s never too late to learn. And the internet has so much information to help you for free, so make the most of tutorials etc and just give things ago. Quantity is far more important than quality to begin with, just create as much as possible and you’ll soon see yourself improving. You don’t need to share it all either! I just taught myself ceramics purely through YouTube and trial and error. Failure is just as important as success too.
What was the inspiration behind your artwork for your PieceHouse puzzle?
I wanted to create a piece that felt indulgent, colourful and interesting so what better than a picnic of yummy food. Plus after I had photographed the still life we got to eat it all so that was a bonus!
Phoebe is the artist that created Alfresco which you can view here.
What do you do to help keep your mental health in a positive place?
Walks on the beach as often as possible, and making sure I have alone time in my studio. Because my teaching job and motherhood is so busy I really need to be alone in order to recalibrate and calm my mind. I also love a hot bath.
