... a little bit about me

I’m Victoria, an illustrator and designer living and working in the heart of glorious Devon, UK.

My creative journey started after school with fashion, textiles and embroidery, and I became an accomplished needlewoman before moving sideways into illustration, graphic design and teaching. The influences and methodologies I acquired working with textiles have strongly influenced my artwork in terms of context and process.  My images are created in a similar way to appliqué or patchwork, and I like to combine traditional and digital media. Colour and pattern are passions, so of course they go into the mix too.

For many years, Millie, our beautiful whippet, was my loyal studio companion.  Sadly, she passed away this year and is very much missed, but it was during our thousands of hours walking together that my love of nature truly flourished. The rich diversity in the lanes, moors, and coastline of Devon sparked a fascination with the patterns, shapes and colours of the natural world that continues to inspire my artwork.  I often use plants and flowers in my designs – sometimes realistically, sometimes in stylised forms – and it only takes a little time in the great outdoors for me to feel creatively recharged and itching to paint. 

Passing on skills and knowledge to others is very rewarding and great fun, and I have been fortunate to teach both school age learners and fully fledged University students.  

Other things that bring me joy are:

My kids, my family, and my love.  Music, music, music.  The sea, and being in it.  Cooking, entertaining and time spent caring for and being in my garden.