An artist's true abilities - or lack thereof - is exposed in one's drawings. The essence of any great painting can be identified in the pre-study. Drawing is one of the purest forms of expression. To draw a nude on paper in pencil is one of the most sensual experiences an artist can have. The grain of fine art paper when worked well can produce immensely satisfying and beguiling results.

Occasionally during pre-study something quite magical happens--a drawing tabled for evaluation is complete. Further endeavour would be futile.

Most often drawings are the foundation for my paintings. In my late teens the revelation that I was partially colour blind came as a shock. Fortunately, I was able to turn this to what I perceive as an advantage. Working with primary colours and a very limited palette painting became a “learn as you earn” exercise...

Sometimes my drawings have a life of their own. "Fade to Blue" and "Prefect" are drawings from my '07 exhibition "Sojourn" that reflect family difficulties identified with lack of traction and mobility in a world that was calling out to me! The urge to travel was compelling. Fleeting glimpses of Europe were around every corner.

Like an old friend our beach, always there ,yet constantly changing--a favourite restaurant or the familiar car parked outside a mates place consoled me. A sojourn in the antipodes beckoned...