My work is shaped by a life lived in close relationship with wildlife. Years spent as a Deputy Head Keeper at Edinburgh Zoo have given me a perspective that is both intimate and deeply respectful. Working alongside animals every day — observing their rhythms, their quiet signals, their moments of stillness and sudden movement — has taught me to see beyond the surface. These encounters form the foundation of my art.
In the studio, I return to these moments through paint. I use acrylics in a watercolour style, building translucent layers that allow light, softness and depth to emerge gradually. This method mirrors the way understanding develops when working with animals: slowly, patiently, through repeated observation and trust. Each layer becomes a trace of memory — the warmth of breath on a cold morning, the shift of muscle beneath fur, the subtle expression that reveals emotion without words.
My paintings explore the tension between power and vulnerability that exists within wildlife. This exhibition brings together works that reflect the connections formed over years. They are not simply depictions of animals, but translations of the profound impact of truly seeing another being. Through layered colour and careful attention to detail, I invite viewers to step into these moments — to experience the stillness, the tension, and the wildness that rests beneath the surface. I am sure you will enjoy the experience in the lovely venue at Greenburns Farm, Kettins, where I share the space with Adam Stone who makes exquisite bespoke pieces of furniture to suit your every want and need. Come along and have a peruse.