I started painting prolifically after a long period of turbulence in 2013. Before then I would paint occasionally but there was a lack of passion in what I did and I was clearly restrained by what I perceived to be the "rules" of painting such as perspective, shade and light, correct dimensions and so on. After a conversation with a close friend who encouraged me to paint, I decided to paint more freely and it became therapeutic and healing. Eventually I just tore the rule book up and revelled in the creative freedom that followed.
By the end of 2013 I was painting up to 4 hrs every day and loving the freedom to create what and how I liked. I had no ambition, it never occurred to me to show anyone my work, it was a private indulgence and a peaceful way to focus my mind and nurture the right side of my brain.