Art has been part of my life from the very beginning. I grew up in a family of passionate painters. My mother, Ruth Shuttleworth, was a dedicated artist, and my great-aunt, Mary Strange Reeve, was a renowned book illustrator and watercolourist in the 1920s and 30s. Other family members also pursued art, so creativity was a constant presence in my upbringing.

Although I studied art to A level, I was encouraged to pursue a professional career. I trained as a chiropodist/podiatrist, which provided me with a rewarding working life. Despite this, I continued attending art classes, always developing my skills, particularly in life drawing. I believe this practice trained me to observe and capture subjects accurately.

I worked alongside my mother, who founded the Eye Art Guild and held exhibitions, even having a piece accepted by the Royal Pastel Society. My sister, Cathie Shuttleworth (pinkinkdesign.co.uk), has built a successful career in illustration.

Once my three children left home, I fully embraced painting. I held my first exhibition in 2016 and have since continued exploring various mediums, including pastel, watercolour, acrylic, charcoal, and chalk. Inspired by landscapes, light, and movement, I paint freely and hold occasional exhibitions to share my work. My influences include Turner, Pissarro, and Renoir.

Nancy