Sadly, due to the new GPSR regulations, I can no longer post items to Northern Ireland and the EU. Any orders from either destination will be cancelled with my deepest apologies. I am very sorry and am working to find solutions.

A wildlife artist's top 5 nature illustration books for learning to paint and draw

Although I have always loved drawing and painting (when I was little the all white family pyrenean mountain dog ended up with a red ear thanks to my eagerness to 'colour in' with felt tip pens), I was 16 before I picked up my first watercolour paints and wanted to paint animals. That was when I started seeking information on how to use the paints, what skills I needed to draw convincingly, how to compose a scene, paint fur and sell work. 30+ years down the line I have amassed a healthy collection of books on the topic.

pile of nature art and illustration books

June 30, 2023

Favourite watercolour paints for a nature artist

After painting in watercolours for over 30 years the most popular question I am asked is about the brand of watercolour paints that I use followed by the colours I like. Here is my view on my personal favourites.

Watercolour painting of an evening sunset in greys and golds lying on a desk top

June 23, 2023

A new artist sketchbook or journal - a tip on starting

For many people, artists and illustrators included, getting a new sketch book or journal is an exciting moment. A whole new book of lovely, crisp white (or off white) pages just waiting for your first marks. If you are anything like me, you may stroke the cover and sniff the paper. Oh, is that just me then?

Pile of yellow and green sketchbooks on a crumpled paper background

Then you get ready to start.

You heart is beating a little faster. Maybe you feel a bit joyful. Yes, joyful! You get comfy, pull out the pens, pencils or paints and - that first page stares at you like an terrifying, anaemic cyclops.

June 14, 2023

How a wildlife artist works - my process for creating illustrations

As a wildlife artist and illustrator I am always looking for new techniques and information to help expand my skills. YouTube is my second home these days. I love the wide variety of videos that feed my curiosity and I have picked up more than a little new information from some of them too. Even after more than 30 years of creating art I am always learning new things - and I love it.

June 7, 2023

June 2023

A wildlife artist's top 5 nature illustration books for learning to paint and draw

Favourite watercolour paints for a nature artist

A new artist sketchbook or journal - a tip on starting

Then you get ready to start.

How a wildlife artist works - my process for creating illustrations

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