I am interested in mark making using unconventional tools and means. I utilise a sewing machine for freehand drawing focusing primarily on portraiture and figurative drawing. I find that this technique allows the fluidity and spontaneity I feel is necessary to capture the ‘essence’ of a person or to express who I perceive them to be. Working with a model can be an intense process and I find that the dynamics of the stitched line, tears and perforations become a visual expression of this concentrated experience.

I believe the strength in my drawings comes from my continual focus on working from direct observation. I always work from life, allowing form and linear detail to create my works. As a direct result of this I am keen to keep sketchbooks recording my experiences of day-to-day life. Working with the sewing machine as a drawing tool has influenced my drawing style and the way in which I treat each page. I like to cut and tear into the paper giving the viewer glimpses of what might follow from page to page.