I've always lived in a very animal-centric world. I grew up on a small holding in Lincolnshire where we had ponies, and our house always included at least a couple of dogs and cats (and the obligatory hamsters that always escaped). It genuinely didn't occur to me until I was older than I'd like to admit, that some people live their lives with zero interaction with animals at all.
There have been numerous studies on the impact of animals in the home, for both children and adults - for boosting emotional regulation, building empathy and responsibility, and constant company.
When it came to starting out as an artist, animals were the only things I wanted to draw. Time and time again, my artwork featured animals, and considering other subjects never really occurred to me.
When I do commissions, I'm always reminded of the bond between animals and their owners. Whether its a dog, cat, horse, or even a pig or sheep, animals have a real way of getting under our skin! The biggest honour for me is being asked to draw a memorial portrait of a beloved animal. It always makes me feel quite emotional knowing that that animal had been such a loved member of the family, to the extent that their owners want to be reminded of them forever. If one of my drawings can make someone remember the good times they spent with their pet - the quirky habits, the little routines they had - it's the most fulfilling feeling.
I know how it feels to have animals in my life - I currently have 3 cats living in my house and they are the most wonderful source of comfort. If there's been times when I've been poorly, one of my cats always knows, and always comes and sits with me for the day. Their quiet presence is incredibly soothing.
Every animal I've met has had their own beautiful personality, and this extends to farm animals as well. I have a small flock of Ryeland sheep, and my favourite (don't tell the others) is Beryl. She's always been really friendly but when I go into the field, she'll come and find me specifically to bump her head against my leg. She also loves hugs. It's like I've been chosen as a beneficiary of her affection.. which feels like an honour!
I don't think I could imagine a life without animals, so it's probably not surprising they've seeped into every aspect of my paintings - I've tried creating landscapes without them in but they always seem a little bit empty to me. Animals have been the defining aspect of my life, shaping how I live, how I create, and even where my friends have come from in farming and equine communities. I think of my artwork as an homage to them, and honestly I can't think of any better way to spend time.
Pictured: Betty - a memorial commission completed this year
