I was always captivated by visual imagery, such as comic book illustration and cartoons from the age of six. I started to work on guiding my illustration skills towards the world of graphic illustration and cartoons in my school years with like minded and talented friends.

I pursued my passion for illustration throughout the rest of my education years, always adding to my skill set. Eighteen years ago I took the step to put my art out into the world, and become an illustrator for hire. My professional career has lead me to produce art work for children books, toy packaging, merchandise and individual themed pieces for customers.

In 2021 I was asked to represent England in the World Illustration Championships, with the art sport organisation company IWS (Illustrated World Series). It was a huge honour, and an incredible experience. As well as constantly working on my love for illustration, I have also worked in and for schools. I had the pleasure of working in a special needs school for eleven years, and as a result I learnt how to work with children/young adults with a wide range of learning difficulties, and disabilities, ranging from ADHD, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Down syndrome.

In 2023 I decided to focus my skill set towards showing children the joy to be had from cartooning, and created my business Toon Cool For School. I worked alongside five schools a week, and created cartoon themed activities and games that helped improve children’s self esteem and confidence, as well as being an incredible source of positive mental health for them.

Having my business, and seeing the positive results it had on the students, made me think about the reasons I love illustration, and what It has done for my mental health. In doing this I quickly came to realise that my connection between my love of illustration and wanting to improve peoples mental health was a natural path for me to follow as a career.

So, here I am. I want to understand more the impact art has on peoples mental wellbeing, and how to use it as a positive force for good. Art has helped me in more ways than I can say, and If I can help people experience the joy and help it can offer, then here is where to learn those skills.