The paintings by Van Gough and Chagall had a big influence on me.

The majority of my work is from life. I spend most fine days from May to October painting outside.

The most amazing thing to me about the sea is the tide. A harbour like St. Ives is totally transformed in a very short space of time by the arrival or departure of the sea.

It's a terrible thing wishing that it can be someone else's tragedy.

I used to own a dingy and can still sail one if pushed, but I like the pleasure boats.

I love the sea's sounds and the way it reflects the sky. The colours that shimmer across its surface are unbelievable. This, combined with the colour of the water over white sand, surprises me every time.

My optimism for life carried through my work.