During my career, I was mainly involved with silicon microchips. And whilst I enjoyed the arts and music, I had no training or talent to produce artworks myself.

Approaching retirement, I began to dabble in creative activities by going to workshops and undertaking short courses. In 2016 I joined the Troon Art Club, which is one of the best decisions that I have made.  I don’t focus on any one medium, or subject area. Basically, I just enjoy exploring all things artistic.

In 2023, I began trying my hand at ceramics at Studio 86 in West Kilbride, under the guidance of sculptor Frances Clark.

In the past, I tried to use pastel pencils but gave up. In 2024, I watched tutorials on YouTube by a pastel animal portrait artist called Emily Rose and I decided to try again. My first drawing was of my dog Dexi and I am pleased with it, so I plan to practice more and try other subjects.