Inevitably, it is the surrounding area that inspires me to paint the most because I know it so well, but also because it is stunningly beautiful, rugged and remote. I walk on the coast path or the beach almost every day. Sometimes I sketch or photograph something that catches my eye, but I am always observing and taking mental notes.

I particularly love walking on Whitesands Beach in the winter when it is quiet; the clouds are full of colour and drama and are reflected in the wet sand. It’s a subject that I love to paint over and over.