Factual writing was part of my working life for decades. In 2017 when I returned to university as a mature student to study illustration – a deeply narrative discipline on the cusp of words and pictures, the fictional stories I had nurtured within me over many years began to surface. Many of these were informed by years spent working and living overseas, including in India, DRC and East Africa.
These stories now shape and drive my fictional practice, which focuses on metaphorical narratives exploring some of the existential challenges we humans face. In some instances these are also illustrated, with children and adults as potential readers.
I also continue to write non-fiction and in 2024 was commissioned to research, write and illustrate a book on the housing crisis here in Cornwall, an issue close to my heart. The book, Hope for Cornwall aims to open up a difficult and often divisive topic to all those it affects and who can affect it.
Currently I’m working on a first collection of short stories, each rooted in the difficulties of dealing with death, difference and loneliness.
I’m also planning an illustrated non-fiction book, which I will research myself as I have a background in qualitative research, on the complex topic of romantic love and mental health.
