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

My optimism for life carried through my work.

I studied for my degree in London and consequently ended up spending five years away from Cornwall. I deliberately moved away from the coast to experience a different way of life.

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.

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

And see the rivers how they run Through woods and meads, in shade and sun, Sometimes swift, sometimes slow, Wave succeeding wave, they go A various journey to the deep, Like human life to endless sleep!

I realised that if I did what I wanted to do, it would work.