Mallows' Rhododendron Collage

Drawing is the language through which I express my connection with nature in all its majestic forms. I enjoy the spontaneity of drawing from life and communicating a sense of place. I only feel that I fully understand something if I have drawn it. I love the sound of a pencil leaving a mark, varying its pressure, looking carefully at what I am drawing while the work evolves upon the paper. I use a variety of materials including graphite, pen & ink, paint, charcoal gold/silver leaf upon paper and board. Through my work I try to understand and express the journey of how a plant or flower grows. Everything living has an individual shape and form, everything makes it’s presence felt in some way, leaves a mark, some trace. Using just the tip of my pencil, graphite and ink I try to reveal the intricate layers, the sensuous interiors, the infinite variety and texture of a leaf, a stem, or a petal. I see beyond the initial form of beauty, gently but determinedly going behind the disguise of blossom or colour. My enthusiasm and curiosity of the plant world continues to be a lifelong passion.