Tam Oliver

I’m a 58-year-old self-taught artist and father of three daughters. Art and creativity have always been something I’ve enjoyed, but for many years life was taken up with working and bringing up my family, so I never really had the time or opportunity to see where my art could take me.

Now, at 58, life has changed considerably. Due to ill health I’m no longer able to work, and I’m currently hoping to be accepted onto the waiting list for a lung transplant. Although this has brought its challenges, it has also given me something I never had before — the time to concentrate on my art.

I create contemporary abstract pieces, particularly textured and three-dimensional work, experimenting with colour, layers, raised panels and different materials. I’m still developing my own style and learning with every piece I make, which is a big part of what I enjoy about it.

After putting art to one side for so many years, I’m finally giving myself the chance to see where it might lead. Creating has given me something positive to focus on and I’m excited to be sharing my work with others for the first time.

Art and design O level

Never had any