Doreen Thomas

Originally born in South Africa, moved to England in my late twenties and became a British citizen, which was a childhood dream.

Always done creative tasks with my hands like knitting, embroidery, ceramics, jewellery making and recently started painting.

Self taught in all of the tasks. Began painting from photographs in a contemporary style and have now progressed to painting my own original items in abstract and abstract realism. Find this style very challenging and enjoyable.

Love to create beautiful items for people’s pleasure and joy. With painting what I like is it can be thought provoking as well as aesthetically pleasing.

Originally when learning to paint used to use photographs from well known people to use image to paint. Recently I feel I’m coming into my own with abstract styles. Love colour and shapes, all intertwined and complimentary. My inspirational artist is are de Kooning, Damien Hirst, Georges Braque, and Klimt.

Went to school and college (tourism and art) in South Africa and since been in England have been lucky to obtain university degrees in psychology (BSc), in education and special and inclusive needs (BA) and a masters in information management and librarianship (MA). Worked for over 10 years helping autistic adults.