The Artist Behind Shute Lane

I've not really used a sketch book properly since leaving college so I use the camera on my phone to capture what I see when I'm out walking with the dog – it might be a caterpillar on a leaf or a bug trying to cross the road. I then do a bit more research and collect other images. I like to get a good idea of what the animal can look like in different light as the colour of their markings can change dramatically! 

When I start my illustrations I tend to go straight in and very rarely go back and start again. The first attempt more often than not becomes the final version.

I work mainly in watercolour and finish the illustrations with some pencil pastels and occasionally pen and ink (but just a tiny bit).

My Journey & Experience

I've worked in the creative industry for 32 years. Having studied Graphic Design in the UK and US, I moved to London in the 90s – working mainly on Government campaigns and public information.

From there, I moved into a more strategic position – developing brand strategy. I've worked with photographers for most of my career and never let the opportunity to double up as an Art Director / Assistant pass me by.

This then led to me studying photography part-time – before taking it up as a full time career.

My husband and I moved (back for me) to Devon – where my Shute Lane story began…

Why Shute lane?

Shute Lane is the lane that runs behind our house. It's jam-packed with with all sorts of wildlife from owls to bats and hedgehogs, dogs, cats and ferrets!

Materials & Fabrics

I like to use a cotton sateen for my designs. I find there's a depth to it that you just can't get with a lot of other cottons. It's good for a variety of uses from quilting (mixing with quilting cottons) and dress making to crafting with glues and adhesives – card making, fabric covering (books, gift boxes) and button making.