Julie Matthews

I've always been interested in colour and design but spent most of my working life in the world of golf, far away from art! I was both sports and animal mad as a child but it wasn't until I was twice diagnosed with cancer as an adult that, in 2013, I decided to take time away from work and learn some new creative skills. So, I plunged into classes in mosaics and painting and, what was meant to be a 6 month sabbatical, has now turned into a long term passion for painting where I can combine my love of colour with my love of animals - the perfect mix for me! I'm also now experimenting with a few landscapes which are proving quite popular so I must do more! I usually paint in acrylic (it's so forgiving) and like to start with the eyes - somehow I feel the personality of the animal coming out when they are looking at me! Most of my animal paintings are brightly coloured and a bit quirky and I also have cards, cushions and coasters printed from those animal paintings. I was delighted to be a finalist in the 2023 Surrey Artist of the Year Award and to finish 4th. I live near Farnham in Surrey.