Making my Mark: an exploration of abstract colour and form.
My paintings reflect a feeling of discovery that resonates with freedom and spontaneity and embraces life’s challenges.
Artist bio:
After raising my family and retiring from a career as a university lecturer, the pandemic brought unexpected challenges — and a surprising new chapter. Painting has become a new way of communicating ideas and emotions without words.
In 2021, at the age of 78, I joined an art group sponsored by The Zacchaeus Project, a Methodist church-based community initiative in Bow, East London.
With no formal training or previous experience, I entered the world of art as a complete beginner and discovered a joyful new world of colour and creativity. Early experiences now find their way into my work — in the textures, colours, and organic forms that emerge in my painting.
I work in acrylic and mixed media, exploring colour, form, design, and pattern with curiosity and playfulness. I paint on paper, tissue, canvas, and board, allowing each piece to evolve naturally. Rather than aiming for a fixed outcome, I follow the internal rhythm of the work as it unfolds. My process is intuitive and experimental — guided by what feels right in the moment.
I think of myself as an abstract artist, drawing inspiration from art books, museums, magazines, and my own quirky imagination. When painting on paper, I enjoy finding unique frames and pairing them with my works, choosing combinations that enhance and complete each piece. When I paint on canvas, I sometimes create a print on art paper, transforming its character, and mount the print in a frame that amplifies its new expression.
Contact: If you have any questions regarding this exhibition, please email programming@stmargaretshouse.org.uk
Venue: The Chapel at St Margaret’s House, 21 Old Ford Road — E2 9PL
Access: We are working to make our Grade II listed building more accessible, but it will take some time. Please note that entry to the Chapel is not step-free. If you require access support (including our portable ramps) and/or access to an accessible toilet, please contact us on 020 8980 2092 or email programming@stmargaretshouse.org.uk so we can arrange this for you.
Opening Event: Friday 18th September, 6.30-8.30pm
Exhibition: Saturday 19th - Sunday 20th September, 10am-5pm
Tickets for the Opening Event are free, but registration is essential