Among optimists Painting

Ever since I can remember, my dad took us on walks in nature on the weekends. Rivers, forests, rugged sea-side cliffs were part of my life from an early age. These are the subjects I love to represent in my work. The contrasts of light and shadow, the colours of nature, the textures each give me inspiration to step into these landscapes, even when the weather outside is not so inviting. From the age of 15 I began my first paintings, mostly of animals in their natural habitat. As my abilities improved, I became fascinated with painting water in all its various forms – seas, lakes, rivers. I love the challenge of capturing the combination of light reflections on these surfaces. During my creative development, I had the opportunity to study under various artists who showed me the importance of having more than one painting technique, and the importance of tonal values, contrast and composition. I am truly grateful for their willingness to share their knowledge. At this point in my life I believe I am still learning to observe the details in a landscape to a greater dimension. It is important to paint what you see, not what you know. I have come to understand that good observation skills are of the foremost importance in the skills of an artist. Originally from Australia, I now live in Moscow. My speciality is oil painting on canvas.