Ever-hungry sausage dog, Otto, isn't the only animal growing larger around here. I love painting expressive animals and the bigger the better. The furry studio assistant, useful for scale, is often sleeping on the job but can be coaxed into a photo shoot with the promise of Good Boy Beef Bites.

When renovating the bedroom of a 'mature' cyclist and his dog, a cheeky finishing touch was this large bone-shaker painting. If you are too young to remember, the bone-shaker (circa 1869) was the first bicycle with pedals. It was not built for comfort with its iron and wood construction and pedals on the front wheel.

Here is an assortment of work created in 2021. Alongside the usual animals, still lives and portraits, a few castles were constructed and there were visits from Sorolla, Magritte and even Pearl. Deepest appreciation to all the generous souls who help with production: patrons, suppliers, photographers, ceramicist, Spanish teacher, event organisers, and above all Steve who can do everything except paint. He is making me a cup of tea as I write this. Happy New Year!