I started painting after having been given voluntary redundancy in 2003.  Having served an apprenticeship as draughtsman in a previous life, precision was not a direction in which I wanted to take my art, preferring a  looser style. My painting preference is concentrated purely in watercolour, gouache and inks as I do not work in any other medium. 

 I set a target of admission to the Ulster Watercolour Society and achieved membership within three years of painting seriously.  Subsequently I was on the UWS council and held the position of Hon. Secretary for 10 years.  In 2024 I was awarded honorary membership.  I am also secretary of Dundonald Arts Club and have held office as chairman or secretary for many years.

For more than 12 years I organised very popular painting holidays in France with a range of artists attending from many countries.  In the past I have demonstrated my watercolour process at local art clubs, mainly in Northern Ireland, but as far away as Cork.  I have also conducted workshops at the Art in the Open Festival at Wexford. 

My next plein air workshop entails demonstrating for the Ulster Society of Women Artists at Enniskillen in September 2024. I will be judging at the prize selection at their annual exhibition.

I have been fortunate to have won awards at the AITO festival at Wexford and at the Dublin Plein Air Festival.   Also, I have obtained prizes at many exhibitions and events including the Ulster Watercolour Society exhibition, where this year I was awarded the President’s Trophy for my entry at their 2023 Show.