About me
Eco-Botanical Artist & Writer
In 2016, stepping back from a 25-year extensive career in make-up artistry, I embarked on life-changing voluntary work in environmental sustainability. Over the course of two, enriching years I noticed a deep, felt sense, that as humans we are part of, not separate from the natural world. This sense of interconnectedness informs my creative practice today as an eco-botanical artist and writer.
My creative process is slow and meditative. I observe each flower over a number of days – how it moves with natural daylight, the subtle shifts in its form and character. This creates an emotional connection with the subject, guiding initial ideas, creative direction, and technical aspects. I also consider how others will view my work. With a playful approach I weave the five pathways to nature connection (contact, beauty, meaning, emotion, and compassion) into my work, to ignite a sense of awe, connection, or shift in perspective, whilst highlighting the profound connection that exists between creativity, nature and wellbeing.
I am committed to promoting sustainable development – care for ourselves, care for our communities and care for the natural world.
The three principal ethics of the permaculture design process guide me both as a gardener and artist -Earth Care, People Care and Fair Share – tending a small Forest Garden that works with nature, rather than against it. This small sanctuary was created with the more-than-human world, I share this space with, in mind. I do not use pesticides or chemicals, relying solely on the biodiversity of flora and fauna to work symbiotically, allowing life to flourish.
As well as providing food and sanctuary for wildlife, I use the rich variety of flora I grow here within my creative practice. Whatever I use, is replaced by collecting seeds & sowing or through composting. What comes out, goes back in.
Where possible, other materials I use are sustainably, ethically and locally sourced near where I live and work in the Lothians, Scotland.
