Like many artists I’ve always found the surrounding environment and my personal experiences the greatest inspiration.

I find it hard to believe now but during my early years as an artist I only used to paint in black and white. And subjects varied from intense self-portraits to racehorses and greyhounds – betting being one of my favourite hobbies at the time.

My work really burst into life and colour when I moved to France. I used to throw open the doors of my studio and take in the scenery and life of the peaceful village of Cambieure. I used to love the daily comings and goings of the tractors and farmers. As I became welcomed into the village community so the country life came to be reflected in my paintings.

I often left the studio to paint the landscape around me. Sheltering in the shade was a necessity during July and August; the fig trees offered ample coverage with their huge leaves. The complex shapes, cool colours, abundant fruit and scenes beyond inspired me.

The beauty of the French landscape opened my eyes and when I returned to London I began to see my surroundings in a whole new light. For so often I’d hurried past rivers, buildings, even railways, without a second thought. Now I began to notice their hidden beauty, arching bridges and competing colours.