About Venus

I cannot remember a time when I have not felt the desire to draw and paint. At thirteen I was awarded a scholarship to Wakefield Art College. I then became a technical illustrator, giving up when marriage and raising four children became my priority. When my children were old enough I gained a place at Trent University, and after completing a foundation-fine arts course I qualified as a Further Education (FE) teacher.

Allenby Sunset (acrylic, 20x24 inchws)

I worked at Arnold and Carlton FE college, introducing and developing a screen printing department as well as teaching art to full and part time students, including remedial YTS groups. I was fortunate to have been chosen to work in two community day centres running art workshops for adults with special needs.

I moved to Keswick in 1988 and took a part time art teaching position, also set up my own studio at home. I gave up teaching in order to concentrate on my own work, which includes oils, acrylics, watercolours and mono screen prints. Each discipline requires a different approach which is demanding and exciting. I am still thrilled and often amazed how a sketch, or idea in my head develops into a finished piece of work.

My work is exhibited in several galleries in the North. I have had many solo and shared exhibitions. Many people have asked where the name Venus came from, I was named after my maternal grandmother, and to the relief of my daughters the name has not been inflicted on the next generation.

Sea Scape (acrylic on canvas 30x40 inches)