1. What is “Expressive Realism”? 

Expressive Realism combines a recognisable representation of the real world with the artist’s own emotional response and interpretation. It can be described as “See it with your eyes, Feel it with your heart. Then, let the drawing happen.”

Rather than simply reproducing a subject as a camera might, reality becomes the starting point. I use observation, colour, texture and expressive mark-making to capture not only the appearance of an animal, but something of its presence, character and individuality. 

My aim is for the finished artwork to remain recognisable and anatomically believable while still allowing my own artistic voice to be clearly visible. 

2. Do you draw from photographs? 

Yes. For my wildlife artwork, I carefully select high-quality, royalty-free reference photographs. 

The photograph provides guidance on the anatomy, proportions and character of the animal, but serves as a starting point rather than something I aim to reproduce exactly. Working in Expressive Realism, I interpret the subject through my own marks, textures and artistic choices, often allowing areas of detail to remain suggested. 

This gives the viewer’s own eye and imagination space to complete the image. 

Every piece is individually created freehand. I do not use digital manipulation, tracing, grids or mechanical transfer methods in the creation of my work. 

3. How do you begin a piece? 

After selecting a reference photograph, I usually begin with the eyes, as they often hold the key to the character, emotion and individuality of the subject. I pay close attention to their expression and use them as an anchor for the rest of the artwork. 

Before committing to a finished piece, I will often make many small, loose charcoal sketches. These allow me to become familiar with the animal’s proportions, structure, expression and character, and to explore how I want to interpret the subject. 

Once I am happy with my approach, I work freehand directly onto the Pastelmat® board, using the reference photograph to guide anatomy, lighting and texture while allowing my own interpretation and expressive mark-making to shape the artwork. 

My intention is to capture the presence and individuality of the subject rather than simply reproduce a photograph. 

4. What materials do you use? 

I use professional-quality materials selected for their performance, colour, texture and longevity. Different brands have their own characteristics, and I choose the materials that best suit the particular subject and the marks I want to create. 

For my larger pastel works, I use Stabilo “CarbOthello” pastel pencils and Royal Talens “Rembrandt” soft-pastel sticks. My preferred drawing surface is Clairefontaine Pastelmat®, which provides the texture and tooth I need for the way I build, layer and blend my work. Pastelmat® is widely used by pastel and charcoal artists. 

My Charcoal Speed Studies are created on high-quality Canson® Mi-Teintes® pastel paper. Its dual-surface texture allows me to work quickly and spontaneously, making it particularly well suited to these faster, looser pieces.

5. How long does an artwork take to create? 

Every piece behaves differently, so there isn’t really a standard answer. Some artworks come together surprisingly quickly, while others require considerably more time. I prefer to allow each artwork to develop at its own pace rather than measuring the creative process by hours. 

Although I may physically complete an artwork in a single day, I always return to it later with fresh eyes. Taking some time away allows me to see the piece differently and make any final adjustments before I consider it truly finished. 

6. Are your artworks originals? 

Yes. Each original artwork is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity (CoA), providing a permanent record of its title, medium, original status and provenance. 

Where prints or reproductions are available, these will always be clearly identified as such and supplied with their own accompanying documentation. 

7. How will my artwork be presented? 

All original artworks are professionally presented and ready to be enjoyed. 

Unframed artworks are supplied double-mounted as standard, helping to protect the piece while giving it a clean, finished presentation ready for framing. Mounted artworks are also supplied in a protective clear sleeve to keep them clean and protected until they are framed. 

My original artworks are professionally framed using a reputable local framer. I choose the mount and frame to complement each individual piece, while also making sure the materials and presentation are suitable for protecting the artwork.

Pastel and charcoal originals are double-mounted and framed behind glass and are supplied with fixings ready to hang.

8. How much would an original artwork retail for? 

Prices vary depending on the size of the artwork, the materials used and how the finished piece is presented. Original artworks typically start from around £325 for smaller, mounted pieces, with larger or framed works priced accordingly. 

Individual prices are always clearly displayed alongside each artwork, so you will know the exact cost. 

9. Are there cheaper options available? 

Yes. If an original artwork is outside your budget, a mounted, high-quality giclée print may be a more affordable choice. These provide an accessible way to enjoy my artwork, so please feel free to ask about the print options available for a particular piece.

Alongside my larger original artworks, I also create smaller Charcoal Speed Studies on Canson Mi-Teintes® pastel paper. These are original, freehand pieces created in a much looser and quicker style, allowing me to offer original wildlife art at a more affordable price. Each one is individually drawn, signed and fixed with SpectraFix® professional fixative.

10. Do you accept commissions? 

Yes, I am happy to consider commissions. Each request is discussed individually to make sure the subject is suitable for my style of Expressive Realism and that I can create something both you and I will be happy with. 

As I work entirely freehand, my commissions are artistic interpretations rather than photographic reproductions. Reference photographs should be clear and of sufficient quality for me to work from. 

If you have an idea for a commission, please get in touch to discuss the subject, size and requirements. There is no obligation at the enquiry stage.