Tamsin Stuart Art
Autumn Puddle
90cm x 60cm
Acrylic on box canvas
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The colours, the rippling, the water, the leaves, the glimmer. I knew what attracted me to this idea but this one definitely evolved.
When I needed a bit of inspiration I took a wander to clear my head and found the exact beautifully-coloured and shaped leaves I was looking for. Brought them home to study them and this piece then came together nicely.
The colours look so much more vibrant in the flesh.
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£650
Dive
75cm x 50cm
Acrylic on box canvas
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I came up with this composition following a suggestion to try water splashes.
Water is one of my favourite subjects to paint. And a theme running through a lot of my work is a sense of movement. So this combined the two nicely.
This is my daughter's favourite so feel a bit guilty putting it up for sale!
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£295
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Mabie Baby
100cm x 50cm
Acrylic on box canvas
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The majesty of these beauties in Scotland's Mabie Forest is breathtaking. It struck me during a family stroll amongst them. Impossible not to be inspired.
Have tried to capture some of their utter awesomeness by standing right at the foot and looking up. Even gave it a hug while I was there.
I'm totally with Leonardo DiCaprio on how important the world's forests are. They demand our protection.
Don't look at your feet, look up to be inspired by amazing possibilities.
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£725
Elevated State
60cm x 50cm
Acrylic on box canvas
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A runner since my late teens, I still squeeze in an off-road climb most weeks.
Hard work, yes, and sometimes I'm not in the mood but the finest views and oxygen that await always keep me plodding on. Feel fit to drop on the ascent and alive on the top.
Don't usually revisit my paintings, but this one kept nagging at me.
I originally painted this in May 2018, but reworked it in October 2021 to unify the colours and add a bit of depth.
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£215
Apollo
35m x 28cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Have always wanted an action dog.
We met one on a mountain-biking excursion and he was awesome. He was called Apollo, although he was a brown Dalmatian not this energetic Spaniel.
Have tried to make my Apollo just as alive and focused on his end goal.
We have our own action dog now and she is even more fun than we ever imagined.
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£425
Make A Splash
35m x 28cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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Looking out the window and watching the birds go crazy in the bird bath gave me the idea for this water action painting, although can't say we've ever been lucky enough to spot a kingfisher in the garden.
Surprised myself how well this one turned out. Love it when that happens!
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SOLD
Bathtime
35m x 28cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Another feathered friend taking a dip. He may not be as colourful as the kingfisher but just as beautiful in an understated way.
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£375
All Set To Ride
40m x 30cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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My first commission was a mountain biking piece so will always have a soft spot for the subject matter, despite being more of a roadie myself.
I like to try depicting usual activities or objects from unusual angles.
And who doesn't love a glorious sunset?
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SOLD
River Wader
40m x 30cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Continuing the splashes theme, a determined four-legged beast dragging itself through a stretch of water.
Finished this one in July 2018. Or so I thought. He came out of storage for Cheltenham Open Studios week and was subjected to a bit of a tweaking.
So much happier with him now.
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SOLD
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Ready For Take Off
40m x 30cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Yep, another watery scene.
My blackbird was not that black and my swan is not as white as you'd think. There is glorious colour everywhere you look.
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SOLD
The Kill
100m x 50cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Created The Kill to feature in my first exhibition as part of Cheltenham Open Studios in June 2019.
Inspired by my own little wolf dog.
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£500
Sinking
55cm x 45cm
Acrylic on box canvas
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A bit of a moody one this time, just to try something different. A bit of raw emotion instead of movement.
I really do love painting eyes.
Wasn't sure if I was going to add the bubbles or not but glad I did.
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£295
Second to Last
20cm x 20cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Created during my stewarding stints at our Cheltenham Open Studios 2019 exhibition at Southend Lodge. Started on June 8 finished on June 16, with lots of interesting chats in between.
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£50
Fledgling
40cm x 30cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Baby birds everywhere in the garden right now. Here's Fledgling. Hasn't got his full colours yet but fluffy and full of life nonetheless. And taking a cheeky dip.
Initially wanted it to be a goldfinch before he got his red, but thinking now he's maybe more of a baby siskin.
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£425
Crash
40cm x 30cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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This wonderful art adventure I'm on began with a wave so thought it was about time to revisit the theme.
It's interesting to look at this painting alongside Wave. I love them both but can see how much I've learned in a relatively short space of time.
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£255
Save Me
40cm x 30cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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An underwater scene. Maybe someone who's come a cropper in Crash!
Hands and water have always appealed to me. The foreshortening aspect also inspired me here.
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£225
A Flying Visit
50cm x 40cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Inspired when a pair of bullfinches dined in our garden one lunchtime. I saw it as a sign this vibrant specimen wanted to be painted.
First spotted them in June 2019, after which they visited almost daily for quite a few months.
The male always fed, the female usually accompanied him but didn't always feed.
Love their colour. The male so much brighter. The female sometimes looked more like a chaffinch but then I'd clock her striking companion.
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£450
Wun Wabbit
25cm x 20cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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One of three small canvases I worked on ahead of a private viewing in August 2019. Bright Eyes legging it. Or is it Cotton Tail?
Settled on Wun Wabbit due to what was running through my head as I was painting him.
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£50
Flower Shower
25cm x 20cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Number two. Inspired by a suggestion from one of my most dedicated supporters.
A bouquet for that someone special will last two weeks, if you're lucky. This single red rose will go on for ever.
Made the perfect romantic gesture for a wedding anniversary present.
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SOLD
Over There
25cm x 20cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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And finally, number three.
Phew! That was a lot of painting in one week for me but I did it. And managed to sell two out of three so well worth the effort.
Hands and water: reoccurring themes for me since my teens and my A-level art exam piece, a clay sculpture called Embrace.
Are they going down or coming up? I'll let you decide.
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SOLD
Jump Again
50cm x 40cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Look familiar? Was a very interesting experience, recreating a painting that was so spontaneous at its conception in January 2018.
This is my 2019 version of Jump, one of my early creations.
Jump will never be for sale as I've decided it is too precious to me. It's one of my signature pieces from the start of my journey.
But Jump Again is. It's not identical but pretty close to the original. And slightly smaller (Jump is 60cm x 50cm)
Maybe this could become an annual tradition for me?
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£525
Entry
25cm x 20cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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Another small original.
I do like my water scenes, although the movement here is rather more sedate.
Definitely a clean entry.
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£50
Warrior
25cm x 20cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Hold these guys in such high esteem. Big respect to the bees.
Someone suggested doing a bee during a chance chat. Always had it in mind to try it out since then.
These guys are more important then ever to life as we know it and they battle on despite the odds against them.
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£325
The Boss
40cm x 30cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Not your typical Christmas robin. Feisty rather than cutesy.
One of the bravest birds in our garden, that's for sure. Keeps me company when gardening in all weathers, serenades our alfresco meals in the summer and rules the roost all year round. Every garden should have one.
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£295
Super Squirrel
25cm x 20cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it's Super Squirrel coming atchya!
This one was fun. My festive furball flying through the air. Yeehah!
Two Christmas creations done, two to go. I'm aiming for a snowy set of four to turn into greeting cards.
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£150
Polar Stroller
40cm x 30cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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So if you were asked to picture a polar bear in a snowy place I'm guessing most people would probably conjure up a very white, cold scene.
Well here's my take on the subject. This is the third in my Winter Collection 2019. Not a lot of white going on here and a whole lot of colour instead.
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£225
The Hunter
30cm x 23cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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A fox cub once came into our garden to curl up under a tree for a kip. Was very cute.
But this fella has only got one thing on his mind and it's not snoozing!
My focused fox completes my Winter Collection 2019, which has now been turned into greeting cards.
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£475
Burst
90cm x 60cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Really proud of this guy. One of two showpieces created for my Paint, Punch and Positivity exhibition in 2019.
It took 22 hours of painting, every one of them filled with tunes by one of Bristol's finest, Kosheen on shuffle loop.
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SOLD
Boom!
90cm x 60cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Kickboxing and martial arts have become such a big part of my life for many years now so holding an exhibition at the academy where I train was the perfect excuse to do another kickboxing painting.
Thought it was going to be a flying sidekick but while doing a quick sketch of ideas it evolved into a flying axe kick instead.
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NOTE: This one is in danger of being painted over so please get in touch asap if you want it, make me a reasonable offer, and it's yours!
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OFFER
In The Saddle
40cm x 30cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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A bit of an unusual perspective, kind of in his lap as he's just about to launch off a cliff.
I don't think rocks and bikes mix personally but I know there are plenty of crazy dudes out there that do.
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£175
A Crisp Lotts Meadow in Winter
30cm x 23cm
Framed oil and cold wax on canvas panel
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My first foray into oil and cold wax painting, first landscape and first time I've painted in company.
Have steered clear of landscapes so far as there's no action but comments about how evocative this is of a favourite dog walking spot have been most encouraging.
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£125
A Hard Frost in Lotts Meadow
30cm x 23cm
Framed oil and cold wax on canvas panel
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Same location on the same crisp morning as my first landscape but from a different point along the dog walk.
A lovely slice of Leckhampton looking more beautiful than I'd ever seen it that day.
And so cold my fingers were sore by the time I got home. Brrrrr!
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SOLD
Sploosh!
50cm x 40cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Kept this one instinctive and carefree, and it came out like a jar of sweets!
Had no idea what I was going to do with it when I started. Just dived in and had a play, hence the name.
For me, painting should be fun.
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£495
Thank You Joyce
30cm x 23cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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This strawberry flower painting is named after a dear late neighbour we said goodbye to a few years ago.
We miss hearing her singing in her garden and the lovely chats over the fence but we still have the strawberry plants she gave the kids and each summer they are still going strong in her memory.
And every time we pick a strawberry to scoff we say 'Thank you Joyce'.
£175
Spray
61cm x 45cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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My osprey is big and fierce and ready to swoop in.
These impressive creatures make the long journey home from their winter hideout in Africa, arriving around March time.
This idea followed a suggestion from my better half, although it took a while to get the right composition.
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£575
Burrows Field
40cm x 30cm
Framed oil, acrylic and cold wax on canvas panel
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Another frosty dog walk that was crying out to be recreated. The light was breathtaking on this particular morning.
This began with a thin layer of acrylic underpainting with layers of oil on top and cold wax for texture.
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£395
Enough
21cm x 15cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Think I'll always regard this as my coronavirus painting. Sat down to paint something upbeat and this came out.
Wasn't in the mood the evening I started creating this, but knew I needed to.
I'm fiercely aware of how important it is to maintain my wellbeing, now more than ever. And I know the things I need in my life to do that.
My weeping angel demanded to be heard. Painting is expression after all. And so I listened.
From the feedback and interest Enough has received, I think this one hit a chord with a lot of people.
Feeling sad but uplifted at the same time can be a thing.
All my painting comes from the heart, but this one is definitely pure raw emotion.
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SOLD
Trail Attack
40cm x 30cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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This is my mountain-biking mash-up, loosely in the abstract style of Jump.
A roadie myself, I have made a promise to create another roadie painting soon but keep getting distracted by the mud and adrenaline buzz of an off-road scene.
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£175
Partytime
40cm x 30cm
Framed acrylic and oil on canvas panel
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Nature and wildlife are not in lockdown.
These house sparrows can party anytime they want, chilling out with their gang down their favourite watering hole.
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£315
Form
21cm x 15cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Set myself the lockdown challenge of doing daily drawing practice to improve my skills. I'm a painter not a sketcher. I don't find a huge amount of enjoyment in drawing because I regard it as a weak point of mine. It's merely part of prep before I get the paints out.
But I do appreciate drawing is a fundamental part of all art and so it demands attention.
So, in true martial arts fashion, the things I'm not good at I practice over and over again until I get better.
And so I had a play with one of my figure drawing exercises.
You'd think I was in a dark place from this. I'm not by the way.
The guy who modelled this said: 'The form feels primal and totemic, which makes the gesture of fear appear timeless and universal.'
He sums up the mood, a mood I hadn't even acknowledged, very eloquently.
£150
Natalie
40cm x 30cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Moo-ve out the way, Natalie is coming through!
Didn't know I wanted to paint a cow until I was inspired by a photo on Facebook.
It appealed to my sense of fun. Lockdown has produced many different painting moods for me but this one was pure unadulterated fun.
An awesome experience. How often are the nostrils a focal point of a painting?!
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SOLD
Incoming
40cm x 30cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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It was time for another bird painting. I could feel it. Here's my swallow in a suitably active pose.
Was not easy painting with acrylics in the recent May heat we've been enjoying. As soon as I'd mixed the colour it was dry on the palette. But all good sunny fun.
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£315
Little Dipper
50cm x 20cm
Acrylic on box canvas
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This was inspired by a photo from a fellow member of Facebook forum The Isolation Gallery. She was reminded of a photo she took of her daughter after I shared a couple of my swimming paintings and kindly gave me permission to use her picture, which had a Prisma overlay, as I was attracted by the colours and shapes.
It's ace how a little scroll through social media can inspire your next art project.
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SOLD
Daisy Drop
25cm x 20cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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The simplicity of a daisy appeals to me. And the colourful possibilities of such simplicity are what drew me to this one.
Obviously I had to include some water. Almost as obsessed with water as I am with colour!
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SOLD
Pole
30cm x 23cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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I sketched this one out just as a bit of fun because I live with two virtual racing addicts.
But following some encouraging comments I thought I'd give it a go.
Not a subject matter I would naturally go for but the movement I love is present.
Sometimes it's good to throw caution to the wind.
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£175
Trying
30cm x 23cm
Framed acrylic and oil on canvas panel
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Was in a crappy mood when I painted this. Can you tell? The cathartic power of art. Wasn't by the time I finished it.
Completed in 2020 and then removed from sale in 2024 after it resisted a reworking.
However, following an unexpected outpouring of love for it by my fab Facebook followers, I have reinstated it and touched it up.
Had no idea it had connected with people and delighted to discover it had.
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£215
Don't Mess
36cm x 28cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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I know kickboxing isn't everyone's thing so wasn't expecting this to appeal to a huge audience. But it's totally my thing, an absolute passion I hold very dear, in the same way art is.
And as it happens this one got snapped up within two hours of me finishing it. Boom!
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SOLD
Sundowner
35cm x 28cm
Acrylic and oil on box canvas
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So this is Sundowner. Drink in my sunset seascape as you sip your tipple of choice.
Transported myself to Seacliff Beach in South Australia for a while painting this, and it was wonderful.
Leaving a rainy Cheltenham behind to soak up a bit of late sun on the other side of the world. Yes please.
Credit to Rachel Harry for providing such a top-class reference photo.
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£275
Wet Sands
40cm x 30cm
Acrylic, oil and cold wax on canvas panel
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Seem to be drawn to beaches at the mo. Probably because I haven't spent enough days on one this year, sadly.
I used a ref photo of a winter walk on Clevedon Beach from December last year, thanks to kind permission from Sally Thompson.
I was drawn to the reflected light and depth of the sand. Cold wax is such fun to work with to create texture and enhance depth.
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SOLD
Good Things Coming
30cm x 23cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Remember that gorgeous sky we were treated to over Cheltenham at the start of September?
It was clearly crying out to be painted. So here's my take on it.
I interpreted the evening the colours came to visit as a sign of beautiful things on their way.
It really was quite spectacular.
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£100
KA Illuminations
40cm x 30cm
Framed acrylic and oil on canvas panel
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This is the painting I nearly gave up on. And then I remembered I'm not a quitter.
My first attempt didn't work and I didn't know why so I couldn't learn from it and that annoyed me.
But, once my frustration had run its course, I fetched it out the bin and had another go.
Thanks to Annette Scanlon and her inspiring photo.
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£350
Drifters
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic, oil and cold wax on stretched canvas
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The inspiration for this was a holiday snap of Exmouth Beach by Emma Austin-Goodall.
Was drawn to the apricots and blues, and the stunning light reflection.
And Em's reaction to the finished thing was worth every single minute.
This was taken on the way home from her first trip as a family to Cornwall, evocative of all the wonderful memories they had made together. Proper special.
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SOLD
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Quench
91cm x 61cm
Framed acrylic on stretched canvas
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So this was supposed to be my big showpiece for my Paint! Punch! Positivity! 2020 exhibition at Cheltenham Martial Arts at the end of November.
But as we head into our second lockdown, I always knew my solo show was at risk.
Doing all we can to get this virus under control takes priority over everything.
So instead of the exciting unveiling of my European Roller I had planned, I present him to you now.
A total of 26 painting hours, alongside countless planning and pondering hours. And my uplifting soundtrack this time was Stanton Warriors album Rise on loop. Thank you guys.
This bird likes a warmer climate so although spotted in the UK before, sightings are rare.
Gives me a warm glow and with all those vibrant blues going on, he will definitely be brightening up my days until he gets his true place in the sun.
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£1,325
Slave To The Vibe
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Having an energic boogie is a means I often call on, and always have done, for dealing with moods and emotions.
Expression, empowerment, a connection, an attitude, a fun release.
The dancing that goes on in our house is not as pro as this. But me and the kids share a love of getting lost in the music in a similar, rather enthusiastic manner! Just like me and my mum.
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£495
Winter Thrill
25cm x 20cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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Helping out with a little local community project to spread a bit of Christmas cheer by making snowflake window decorations so thought I'd get in the mood with a cheeky snowflake painting.
Just had a play to see what came out.
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£50
Robin Triptych
43cm x 23m (three x 12cm x 10cm)
Framed acrylic on acrylic paper
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Had to keep this one secret for a while as it was linked to a special gift, which I still can't reveal just yet. My three little action buddies swooping in to save the day. Created near to Christmas, yes, but no cute fat robins sat on branches here. All my birds are busy and brimming with life.
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£175
Queens Hotel
30cm x 20cm
Acrylic on paper
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I don't like painting buildings. They don't have enough colour or movement for me, and far too much detail and exactness.
So I messed about with the perspective and went colourful with it. Now I like them!
It's where me and Mr Stuart celebrated getting hitched many years ago, so has meaning for me.
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£50
Cheltenham Town Hall
30cm x 20cm
Framed acrylic on paper
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So many beautiful buildings in Cheltenham it's hard to choose which to paint next.
But decided on this colourful take on the Cheltenham's Town Hall.
Have had a request for the Pump Room so might try one more before I have a break from buildings.
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SOLD
Pittville Pump Room
30cm x 20cm
Acrylic on paper
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The last in my Cheltenham buildings series for now.
If you're looking for accuracy and exactness then I'm not the artist for you. My paintings are my interpretation of what I see, the spirit of things. Wanted the orange and red to bring warmth to the building's historic finery.
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SOLD
Iced and Sliced
25cm x 20cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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Can't drink one at the mo due to annual abstinence but there's nothing stopping me from painting a G&T.
Was a little apprehensive about going ahead as the initial sketch wasn't as effective as I'd hoped, but starting with a dark ground was the key to the painted version.
Bit thirsty now. Best put the kettle on!
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£350
Sup Up
40cm x 40cm
Framed acrylic on linen canvas panel
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Bought this linen canvas panel yonks ago but had to wait for the right creation to present itself. It's got a lovely texture and earthy look to it, so I've tried to keep as much of the canvas coming through as possible.
Like to take my cues from what's happening in the garden. The blue tits have been particularly busy so thought it was their turn...again.
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£295
Bluey
16cm x 10.5cm
Framed acrylic on acrylic paper
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This was a bit of a speed painting. I was just doing a quick study really. Had it mind I'd do a little blue tit triptych and then made this guy a bit too big to fit the frame.
So I'm just going to leave him solo.
I sense when I'm done with a painting as the excitement starts to wane. Often I know I could carry on and keep adding layers of detail but if my heart and thoughts have moved onto something else, I know it's time to stop.
Felt I'd achieved what I'd set out to by capturing a bit of movement and light. So I'm keeping him fast and loose.
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SOLD
Virtual Hug
18cm x 13cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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Everything I paint comes from the heart based on what inspires me.
My beautiful mum sent me a virtual hug in the post and it touched my heart. And so obviously I had to paint it!
Not tried metal before.
Love the way it looks quite metallic from a distance but if you zoom in you can see all the brushstrokes and colours it's made up of.
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£95
Lily Pond
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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After catching up with Landscape Artist of the Year on Sky Arts, had a feeling I hadn't used green in my paintings for a while.
Well, boy, did I get my fill of green with this little baby!
After 15 hours of staring at all kinds of green, this was finally finished.
This is from a photo I took at beautiful Batsford Arboretum in August last year. It is one of my favourite places on this planet.
Was drawn to the reflections on the water and the light bouncing about.
Was worried I'd get lost in all that green and it's easy to get carried away with the detail with so many lovely shapes, but think I held it together.
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SOLD
Mummy Needs a Drink
22cm x 21cm
Framed acrylic on paper
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It's a mummy mallard.
Was totally drawn to this one by the swirls and shapes in the water.
Big thanks to awesome wildlife photographer Matthew Cottrell for such an inspiring photo.
Finished off perfectly in a simple white box frame.
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£275
The Munce
30cm x 23cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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Thought it was time for another Cheltenham building.
This one is the Municipal Offices on The Prom.
Went a bit crazy on the colours but I knew I wanted to use this two-tone combo to give it a bit of a pop art look.
Took a bit of experimenting though.
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£150
Close Encounter
40cm x 30cm
Acrylic and oil on canvas panel
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Not sure if red kite have ever been spotted over Pittville Pump Room but in my world it's happened!
That's the beauty of artistic licence. They have in Leckhampton and Chedworth so that's good enough for me.
My starting point for this was an inspiring image by wildlife photographer Matthew Cottrel.
And I merged it with a view from the balcony of the pump room because I love the perspective.
Also wanted the cold stillness of the statue to contrast with the shine and swoop of this mesmerising bird of prey.
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£275
Air
30cm x 15cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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The BMX track by us has been a lifesaver for my children and their buddies ever since it was built, way before lockdown.
It gives them the freedom, confidence, belonging and air that young people need to thrive.
£195
Sunshine and Shade
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Took time out from other projects to finish my Painswick Rococo Garden painting.
We live in such a beautiful part of the world with inspiration everywhere.
Was drawn in by the shadows on a perfectly bright and sunny family visit.
£275
What You Looking At?
30cm x 21cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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We have one feisty bird here. I'm not talking about me, although I don't put up with any nonsense either it's true!
A goldfinch oozing attitooooode! Inspired by another absolutely outstanding photo by wildlife photographer Matthew Cottrell.
I don't do cute and pretty. Active and aggy is more my thing.
Not in flight but feathers are well and truly ruffled here. It's all in the glare!
£275
Through His Eyes
18cm x 13cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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Put the kids to bed and started painting. Next time I looked up it was gone 3am! Oops.
Got totally engrossed in this one. Inspired by a photo I took of my boy about four years ago.
It grabbed my attention while I was foraging for something else from my inspiration folder.
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£75
Go Wild
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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This makes me feel happy. The colours, the movement of all those stalks, the fact that the bees can fill their boots.
Was just popping to the printers when this little wildflower meadow, created on a patch of town-centre green space, caught my eye.
So much fresher and more practical than the formal planting that used to be there. Was instantly captivated.
Well done Cheltenham Borough Council. Need some of your planting tips here. My own wild patch is a sorry sight compared to this beautiful display.
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£375
About Turn
40cm x 40cm
Framed acrylic on linen canvas panel
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This one started out as a project during a mentoring session with a budding artist ahead of starting their GCSE in art.
We both chose to paint goldfinches. And, of course, mine had to be in flight.
Looks fab alongside Sup Up, also painted on these lovely linen canvases.
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£295
The Floor Is Yours
30cm x 15cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Another one created during a mentoring session with a young artist who also has a flair for gymnastics.
This is my minimalist gymnast.
We had a play with some oil pastels for the first time for the preparatory sketches. Now they are fun!
Usually do the ground before the subject but was refreshing to do it the other way round for a change.
SOLD
Atop Three Cliffs
30cm x 20cm
Acrylic, oil and cold wax on stretched canvas
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Inspired by a recent camping trip to this stunning location on the Gower Coast.
This painting has texture so definitely one to see in real life rather than online. It's hard to capture the true colour and texture in a photo but hopefully its essence is conveyed.
Worked on this at the same time as Deeper Into Three Cliffs as wanted them to complement each other.
Plenty of fabulously tactile hours spent here.
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£150
Deeper Into Three Cliffs
30cm x 20cm
Acrylic, oil and cold wax on stretched canvas
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And we have a pair! Same location, different outlook.
Both of these started with an acrylic underpainting before I piled on the layers.
Used mainly palette knives, cotton buds, sponges, rags and the occasional paintbrush!
Very free and fun.
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£150
Your Majesty
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Seeing as my next exhibition is at Winchcombe's Dove Gallery, I thought it was a good time to have a go at Sudeley Castle.
Started this with quite a reductive approach. Painted a dark colour ground and then lifted off the paint to map out the shapes. Gave it quite a ghostly feel in the early stages.
Wanted the movement of one part of the building to contrast with the solid, staticity of the other.
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£275
Deliverance
18cm x 12.5cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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This came about following a sketch request from my son for a First World War soldier in mud with a rifle.
Someone told me military themed art isn't very popular. But who cares?
With Remembrance Day approaching, it felt right to pursue the idea.
A dark scene of utter desperation, I know, but this is my tribute to the selfless men and women who serve their country.
And anyone else, frankly, who has been to hell and back for the greater good.
Always in our prayers.
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£95
Raspberries
A4
Acrylic on acrylic paper
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Tried this composition in watercolour first. But, with it not being my medium and me not really having got my head around it yet, it didn't go particularly well.
So thought it would be interesting to do the same composition in my trusted acrylics. Much happier with these results.
And the fact this painting sold within two hours of me finishing it is a wonderful endorsement that it worked quite a bit better.
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SOLD
Kapow!
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Forever coming out with ridiculous noises when I'm kickboxing, like I'm an action figure in a comic or something.
So thought I might as well call this Kapow!
All the kickboxers I paint seem to have long legs and long hair. I see a pattern emerging!
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SOLD
Glare
A4
Mounted acrylic on mixed media paper
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The talent of wildlife photographer Matthew Cottrell is breathtaking. Huge thanks to him for letting me use another of his inspirational photos for reference.
His macro capture of a damselfly grabbed my attention instantly. Was lured in by the big bug eyes, the vibrant colours and the sassy pose.
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£150
Swoop
A4
Mounted acrylic on mixed media paper
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Was tempted to add some splashes to this composition, as I do, but apparently owls aren't that keen on water, other than drinking it, so I reigned myself in.
Another one inspired by a Matthew Cottrell capture.
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£125
Awoken
18cm x 12.5cm
Oil and acrylic on canvas panel
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Have had some awesome feedback on this one. For some, it is dark and desperate, for others, mighty and powerful.
Whatever it says to you and however you interpret it, I'm just delighted at such engagement.
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£95
Sledging
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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My first painting of 2022. No snow so far this January, but there was a fair bit around on Leckhampton Hill this time last year.
Wanted to capture the stunning winter sun along with the colour and depth of snow.
Working form a photo I took at the time, I started with a purple and blue ground and then layered up using a range of brushes, a palette knife, cotton buds, fingers and a sponge.
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£275
Pittville Pescador
100cm x 50cm
Acrylic on box canvas
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The second kingfisher painting I've done. This one is not so much in motion, but at that tense moment just prior to diving in and catching a spot of lunch.
Wanted to do it following all the lovely chats I had with people at the Pittville Pump Room about the kingfishers that now reside at the lakes in the park there.
Another top photo by wildlife photographer Matthew Cottrell also influenced my decision.
In excess of 29 hours painting hours spent, with George Michael on shuffle throughout, the longest I've spent on one piece so far.
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£1,195
Cox's Meadow
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic, oil and cold wax on stretched canvas
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Cox's Meadow is a quiet corner of Cheltenham that calms me.
This little scene caught my eye on a dog walk.
Created this in one evening while the rest of the house was sleeping.
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£195
Wild Horses
59cm x 42cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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My emotional response to the four racehorses that were killed at Cheltenham Festival 2022.
I have a big problem with animals being treated as disposable items for our entertainment. So I focused on bringing four wild horses to life instead.
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SOLD
Poppets
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Ventured into St Peter's churchyard in Leckhampton to get a closer look at a different headstone that kept catching my eye on a regular dog walk, but this one ended up inspiring me more.
A rather unusual subject to paint, but thought it would be interesting to try to inject a bit of the movement I love so much into something as solid and sombre as a gravestone.
The inscription is to Joan Helen, otherwise known as Poppets, daughter of Robert and Emily Marshall, who died aged just two and a bit in 1913.
£395
Hermitage
A4
Mounted acrylic on multi-media paper
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Don't actually have rhododendron in our garden now but have fond memories of them in the wonderful wooded haven we were lucky enough to call our childhood garden when we lived near Newbury.
£125
Refresh, Reset, Repeat
16cm x 12cm
Mini stretched canvas with wooden display easel
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Bought a few mini canvases a while back but wasn't sure what to do with them.
This is the first. Was supposed to be getting ready for an exhibition, but got distracted doing this instead.
£45
Pick Your Own
A4
Framed acrylic on multi-media paper
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Experienced a brief state of feeling temporarily out of sorts, partly brought on by my own bruised mindset, but also some external rubbish I didn't see coming.
Tried to kickbox my way out of it but that didn't work this time, so reached for my paints and retreated into my own little world of colour and shape.
Inspired by a lovely trip to Primrose Vale with my mum and the kids. It chucked it down obviously, but painting these strawberries restored my sense of calm once more, thankfully.
Plus, they sold within a few hours of being finished so just the boost I needed.
SOLD
Don't Rush Me
A4
Framed acrylic on multi-media paper
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Sometimes when I get an idea for a painting there is more than one composition to be had.
This is the second strawberry creation inspired by photos I took during our recent trip to Primrose Vale PYO.
Had the title before I'd started it. Liked the way the unripe fruit was the focus, quite happily taking its time, despite being surrounded by red juiciness everywhere.
£525
Early Riser
40cm x 30ccm
Acrylic and oil on canvas panel
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This took me back to Spain, Nerja to be exact, where we spent our summer holiday this year.
Special times with special people.
Inspired by a photo taken by my dear friend Sally Viles at some ungodly time in the morning.
£195
Bicyee
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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I like it when people make suggestions about subjects I could paint, as it often takes me in directions I wouldn't have gone.
So following an idea put in my head at a curry night for my son's footie team, I thought I'd have a go at this.
Inspired by the Leckhampton Rovers under 13 team, the Blades.
Love watching them in action.
£150
Crumble Central
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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We have been inundated with apples this year so felt only right to paint them.
Was busy making a crumble one afternoon when some cool light came through the kitchen window and got me thinking about a still life composition.
£395
In a Flap
40cm x 30cm
Unframed acrylic on canvas panel
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Was patiently waiting for a sign of what to paint next when a woodpecker flew into the garden.
It prompted a bit of sketching and then I decided to go for it.
Inspired by the great spotted that landed on our apple tree and has been back a few times since. Watched it for nearly 20 minutes one day out the kitchen window on the pear tree, clinging on in quite a ferocious rainstorm.
This is the revised version as I revisited it nearly a year later. Don't often do that but thought there were a few adjustments to be made.
£215
Feel the Fire
91cm x 61cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Thought it was time for another kickboxing painting.
I particularly enjoy creating an image that didn't exist in the world before.
This was an idea in my head that I wanted to bring to life, to convey the feeling of passion, fury, determination, purpose and desire to be brave and do the right thing that drives me.
It has triggered other interpretations too, which is fab to hear.
The music that accompanied this painting process was all the Depeche Mode albums I own on repeat.
£1000
Neptune
42cm x 29.5cm
Unframed acrylic on stretched canvas
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This is my take on the Neptune Fountain on The Promenade in Cheltenham.
By simplifying the shapes, accentuating the elements I liked, ignoring the bits I didn't, creating some movement and giving it a turquoise glow, I'm happy I've made it my own.
That'll be another local landmark given the Tamsin Stuart Art treatment!
Thanks to whoever it was who suggested giving the fountain a go. I'm glad I did, although in the preliminary stages when King Neptune looked like Elvis, my dad and then Queen Victoria, I was cursing the subject matter. A lesson in keeping the faith for me.
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£515
New Beginnings
A4
Mounted acrylic on multi-media paper
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Spring is definitely king for me so I celebrated the best season there is with a crocus painting.
Used a photo I took in our garden as reference.
The hyacinth, crocus, forsythia and daffs are all doing their bit to bring some splashes of colour to a rather winter ravaged scene.
£125
Aiming High
7" x 5"
Framed acrylic on multi-media paper
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Created this little kingfisher in one sitting and filmed the whole thing. Had my own silent disco with singing, chair dancing, a swig of wine and lots of strange, concentrating facial expressions. Oh what fun I had!
One of my favourite ways to spend an evening.
SOLD
Run Free
A4
Acrylic on mounted multi-media paper
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Amazes me that those who love horses are so casual about watching them die for our entertainment.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion but I honestly cannot understand it.
And so once again I was compelled to bring wild horses to life in memory of the three horses killed at the Grand National 2023.
My cathartic creative way of coping with the sadness. A shameful waste of life that I continue to struggle to process.
£125
Gratitude
A5
Framed acrylic on paper
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Finished two paintings this week. One is for charity and has to remain a secret until later this year.
This is the other.
The second rose I've painted.
Pink roses are a symbol of gratitude and admiration, apparently. Hence the title.
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£195
Come Here!
40cm x 30cm
Framed acrylic on canvas panel
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Yonks ago I asked a bird expert what his favourite bird was and it was a bee-eater, which I'd never heard of.
Once I Googled it, was totally wowed by its vibrant colours. So it has been high on my to-do list for quite some time.
This comes in a black floating frame with a coloured back board. It's really quite a special arrangement and needs to be viewed in person to get the full effect.
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£825
Selfie Time
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Usually start a painting thinking what feeling do I want to create. This one was goofy happiness.
Asked for suggestions on what to paint next and quite a few mentioned my cows. So here's a cheeky pair having what I'm recently informed is an 'ussie'.
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£495
Dockside
A4
Framed acrylic on paper
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Another one from the list of suggestions, which coincides with my first Gloucester event soon.
The Docks and Cathedral and a bit of night-time moodiness.
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SOLD
Eye Spy
A4
Mounted acrylic on paper
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Not sure this Cheltenham landmark has been painted that much. Shrouded in secrecy, GCHQ is not your obvious subject. But then I never did like following the crowd.
This was as a result of another suggestion and initially I wasn't sure, but that's often a good indication it's worth a try. So I had one.
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£125
Simple Treasure
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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When the kids were babies I bought a thornless blackberry plant for the garden. And it's still delivering. A bumper crop this year in fact. Pretty much the only think in the garden that hasn't been munched by beasties.
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£395
Never Enough
A4
Acrylic on paper
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Every time I recreate her she changes.
The original of Enough sold last year but here she is again. A bit different and a bit minimalist.
She is now available to buy following the conclusion of my first painting workshop at the Urban Fox bar.
I broke down how I created her into a few manageable steps so others could have fun coming up with their own version of her.
This original on paper was brought to life in under two hours, for me to practice and to prove it can be done during a relaxed couple of hours.
And I'm pleased to report that the workshop was such a success I will be doing another one in January 2024.
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£175
Spill
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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When the real world turns too dark and scary to comprehend, I am eternally grateful that I can fill my world with as much calm and colour as I need.
Wanted to capture some of the wonderfully abstract shapes of water droplets. Also felt the need for a colour injection to cheer myself up and counteract the current global gloom.
Focusing on the simplicity of colour, shape and light is very therapeutic. I highly recommend it as a distraction from the stresses and distresses of life.
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£415
Sir Lenny
25cm x 20cm
Acrylic on canvas panel
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This was a great little exercise in what can be achieved in a very short space of time under pressure.
Decided to embark on this speed portrait of Lenny Henry as part of a World Record attempt by Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year.
Hundreds of artists took part simultaneously in person and online. We had an hour to create something that was recognisable as Sir Lenny.
I then gave myself another hour a few nights later to finish it off.
If anyone wants it, make me an offer.
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OFFER
Workers Unite
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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My first painting of 2024!
Took a photo of these bees at work yonks ago during a visit to Batsford Arboretum and thought it was about time to make something of it.
Started with an orange underpainting to give it a glow.
Kept me nicely buzzy...I mean busy over the Christmas hols.
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£625
Soggy Under Foot
25cm x 20cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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Every day pretty much for me starts with a walk in the woods with my pack of rescues.
Even if I'm not in the mood, I soon am once I get out in the fresh air. It gives me time - to think, clear my head, get connected with nature, breathe, get the blood pumping and to enjoy my crazy pooches.
And this was inspired by one such walk.
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£295
Turbulence
100cm x 50cm
Acrylic on box canvas
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Kept this one under wraps until the private view of my first exhibition of the year in April 2024 at Sixteen Gallery.
I am one of five members of Junction 12 Art Group who have taken over the posh gallery in Montpellier, which is fast becoming the arts quarter of Cheltenham, for a week.
Turbulence is my showpiece, created especially for the event.
A swooshing greenfinch with whooshing water. Completed a big greenfinch commission recently and enjoyed the experience so much that I had the urge to go again.
The show, called Wild and Vivid, is running until April 17.
Come and see Turbulence in person. Find us at Sixteen Gallery, 16 Rotunda Terrace, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham GL
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£1195
Highway to Happy
42cm x 29.5cm
Acrylic on stretched canvas
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This is a significant painting in my art journey. I regarded it as a point of personal principle.
So the backdrop to it is many years ago, when I first started out as a professional artist, I had a go at this idea and it ended up in the bin. The only painting I have ever thrown away.
I left the idea alone to sit for ages. It kept goading me. And then I thought I was ready to have another go at it one evening. But by 1am I had painted over it in frustration. No doubt recounting the original experience and resolving that it would always remain my nemesis.
Then I stopped thinking I was on a war-waging mission, had a word with myself, and started enjoying the process instead.
Me and my painting called a truce and decided to be friends.
Oh, and it sold within three hours of going online! This particular ghost is now laid to rest.
Adore the therapy a long, lonely walk in the woods can bring. This is my homage to that serenity. And I have found my true path to happiness in more ways than one.
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SOLD
Devil's Chimney from below
A4
Acrylic on paper
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Have wanted to paint the Devil's Chimney on Leckhampton Hill for ages but it's been done a lot so was waiting for a different take.
Most images of it are from above. Probably because it looks less phallic! My version is from a photo I took on a sunny dog walk looking up at it from the bottom path.
The light was stunning, as was the sky, and hopefully it doesn't look like a big you know what!
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£175