“I cannot remember a time when I have not felt the desire to draw and paint.”

We are delighted to have Venus exhibiting with us this Autumn, filling our Blencathra gallery with the vibrant colour, energy and joy that is so typical of her work. Venus’ work is exhibited in several galleries in the North, and she has had many solo and shared exhibitions.

At thirteen, Venus was awarded a scholarship to Wakefield Art College.  She then became a technical illustrator, which was later put on hold when marriage and raising four children became her priority. 

“When my children were old enough I gained a place at Trent University and after completing a foundation-fine arts course I qualified as a F E teacher.  I worked at Arnold and Carlton FE college introducing and developing a screen printing department as well as teaching art to full and part time students, including remedial YTS groups.  I was fortunate to have been chosen to work in two community day centres running art workshops for adults with special needs.”

“I am still thrilled and often amazed how a sketch, or idea in my head develops into a finished piece of work.”

Venus moved to Keswick in 1988 and took a part time art teaching position. “ I also set up my own studio at home.  I then gave up teaching in order to concentrate on my own work, which includes oils, acrylics, watercolours and mono screen prints.  Each discipline requires a different approach which is demanding and exciting.”

Many people have asked her where the name Venus came from. “ I was named after my maternal grandmother and to the relief of my daughters, the name has not been inflicted on the next generation.”