The fictitious but believable painted personality that is Pearl remains a constant companion in the studio. Some readers will remember how she was popping up everywhere during our ten years in Sheffield. Nowadays she rarely occupies the easel where a more figurative style of painting gets priority. When asked to paint her in a bespoke scenario this summer, it was hard to refuse. I forgot how fun it was to mix the auburn hair colour, find ways to include Irene the Cat, float 2D pearls around pencil-thin necks, and liberally blend goofy with glamorous. Already the owner of Paddling Pearl, the outdoor sports enthusiast wanted a keepsake from her vacations in Jávea and this is an iconic view of the Playa de la Grava with Cap de Sant Antoni in the background. Thank you dear Chrissie and Ian. Come back soon!

After seeing this video you cannot doubt the ability to manifest dreams... or paintings! Todd the Dog is a fictitious character featured in many paintings as Edmund's loyal companion between 2009 and 2014. Otto, a real dog, was born in Valencia in 2016. He suddenly materialised as a temporary lodger at age six months. He is still with us, thankfully. Paintings of Todd the Dog were premonitions of Otto's colouring, short legs, long body, big snout, wild flapping ears and irresistable brown eyes, not to mention the unexpected way each dog found its new home. (Todd was lurking in Edmund's recycle bin.) Be very careful about what you paint!

A selection of artwork produced in 2020 with jaunty music to help me remember the positive outcomes of a challenging year. Heartfelt thanks to all who supported my art practice this year and every year.