My Influences

I've had a lot of influences throughout my life. Most often I get inspired by my life and surroundings, such as, friends, family and nature. Personally I don't feel that the more well known artists influence me much. I prefer finding artists that are less well known and most people will not have heard of, such as friends that haven't published their work.

I find it easier to absorb new techniques and ways of working from people that are close to me, learn it their way, hear what they have to say and their experiences, rather than reading what other people have seen in a painting or what they think a particular artists technique may have been. When it comes to well known artists, they've either passed or you don't have the opportunity of direct contact with them, so can't hear their side of things and can only hear another person or critics opinion. With friends I can watch them and take it all in and ask questions if I want.

My family have definitely been my biggest influence. My mum love art just as much as me, and watching her draw just inspires me to try harder and try new things. I've always looked up to her, she's a great role model. I do enjoy looking at work of other artists and take in their style of work, but I prefer to do things my way and just get on with it. If I don't like something I'll change it and I just draw what I enjoy. I try my hardest not to mimic others work, but can learn from their techniques while expressing things in my own way.