Artist Statement
What Lies Underneath?
I am fascinated by the complexities of human experience, and my paintings aim to explore these layers through traditional techniques. I build up layers of paint to create depth and a sense of mystery, often using glazing and scumbling to add or conceal details. While my paintings might seem simple at first—a woman singing in a swimming cap or a man singing surrounded by birds—they hold deeper stories and emotions beneath the surface.
Social media has become a big influence on my work. I’m intrigued by how people present idealised versions of themselves online, often hiding insecurities and doubts behind carefully edited images. My work tries to capture what might be underneath these filtered versions—the loneliness, self-doubt, and the pressure to appear perfect. I believe in the power of authenticity. Through my art, I hope to challenge traditional ideas about beauty and encourage viewers to connect with what feels real and honest. I want my paintings to be a reminder that there is more to each of us than what’s on the surface, inviting people to embrace their true selves.
Education
BA Honours Drawing and Psinting Glasgow School of Art 1994-1998
Awarded the Benno Schotz purchase prize for drawing at graduation.
1998 – Present Day
Selected Exhibitions
2024 Society of Woman Artists, Mall Galleries, London.
2023 Invited artist, Group show, The Hybrid gallery, Devon.
2023 Summer Show, The Velvet Easel Gallery, Edinburgh.
2022 The Unlikely Clan, Group Show, Lemond Gallery, Glasgow.
2021 Winter Group Show, Arteries Gallery, Glasgow.
2020 The Unlikely Clan, debut Show, SoGo Arts, Glasgow.
2019 Invited Artist, Summer Show, The Biscuit Factory, Newcastle.
2019 Invited Artist, Winter Show, Hybrid Gallery, Devon
2017, Selected for the Scottish Portrait Awards, Edinburgh.
2016 Open Art Awards, Winner of the Turtling Award, London.
2015 Paisley Art Institute, Winner of the Glasgow Art Club Award.
2015 Group Show, Woman Painting Woman, Glasgow.
2013 Selected for Figurativas ’13 Exhibition, Barcelona.
2012 group Show, Panter and Hall Gallery, London.
2008 Scottish exhibition, Thompsons Gallery, Marlybone, London.
2005 Group show, Eton Contemporary Gallery, Eton.
2005 London Art Fair, Eton Contemporary Gallery, London.
2005 Paisley Art Institue, Annual exhibition.
2004 group Show, Blackheath Gallery, London.
2003 Featured Artist, Blackheath Gallery, London.
2002 Solo Show, Arteries Gallery, Glasgow.
2001 RGI Annual show, Winner of the City of Glasgow Award.