When I was a child, my art teacher told me I would never be an artist. That moment stuck with me for years, and I put down my pencils, convinced I’d never create anything worthwhile. But deep down, I never lost my love for drawing. In the early 1980s, I discovered pastel pencils (then called 'Colour Charcoal Pencils') and everything changed. I was captivated by how familiar they felt, yet how much more expressive and versatile they were compared to anything I’d used before.
As I experimented, I developed my own techniques and soon caught the attention of STABILO, who invited me to become an ambassador and share my discoveries. Later, Faber-Castell approached me to help launch their PITT pastel pencils, and I’ve been recommending and using them ever since. Over the decades, I’ve taught thousands of students, from complete beginners who lacked confidence to experienced artists looking to expand their skills. Many have gone on to create professional-level work and even take commissions themselves.
Through my classes, ebooks, and over 400 podcast episodes, I’ve built a library of resources covering everything from animal portraits and landscapes to still life and human portraits. My mission is simple: to make art accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of background or experience. I know firsthand how discouraging it can be to doubt your abilities, and I never want anyone to miss out on the joy and satisfaction that art can bring.
This app is the culmination of my life’s work - an open invitation to explore, learn, and discover what you’re truly capable of. Whether you’re picking up a pencil for the first time or looking to master a new medium, I hope you’ll find inspiration, guidance, and a supportive community here.
