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The road to my recurrent ovarian cancer surgery:

It's been another rollercoaster journey in the last month, as I prepared to face my surgery planned for Wednesday 10th June. It was a busy few weeks with end of term, and I'd meant to update people with this surgery news, but I didn't manage to. This clip shows parts of the journey.

On Wednesday 10th June, I arrived for surgery, but my surgeon and the anaesthetist decided surgery could not go ahead. Unfortunately a week prior whilst coaching, I'd pulled a netball post out a cupboard for a match, (which hadn't been secured properly by the last user), and the steel ring swung round powerfully and cracked the side of my head, giving me concussion.

9 days later, on the morning of surgery, I arrived into the hospital still with concussion symptoms, feeling pretty overwhelmed and unfortunately whilst trying to find the ward another nose bleed began. A kind nurse was leading the way to the ward, (the 'maternity ward' - an unfortunate part of the ovarian cancer surgery process you face, especially when it's previously removed your fertility). With this worse nose bleed than usual, blood was running down onto my hands, and I was being asked by people trying to help, 'Are you pregnant?' With now both tears and blood pouring down, this added to the overwhelm. I was taken into the side room and instead of going for the surgery as I expected, after a discussion my surgeon (wisely) advised my surgery could not go ahead, as my concussion symptoms were still strong.

I am now resting, recharging as much as possible, and trying to prepare for surgery to remove as much cancer as possible on July 14th. I feel peaceful about the delay.

As I said to the netball girls I coach in the week before surgery: sometimes you have to have a plan B and C in life, or if you're Gilly (and many others), a plan D, E etc etc.

I'll try and keep you updated. Thank you as always for the kindness and care. It's valued hugely.

(Piano music in the clip played beautifully by Mum (Bridget)).

The road to my recurrent ovarian cancer surgery:

It's been another rollercoaster journey in the last month, as I prepared to face my surgery planned for Wednesday 10th June. It was a busy few weeks with end of term, and I'd meant to update people with this surgery news, but I didn't manage to. This clip shows parts of the journey.

On Wednesday 10th June, I arrived for surgery, but my surgeon and the anaesthetist decided surgery could not go ahead. Unfortunately a week prior whilst coaching, I'd pulled a netball post out a cupboard for a match, (which hadn't been secured properly by the last user), and the steel ring swung round powerfully and cracked the side of my head, giving me concussion.

9 days later, on the morning of surgery, I arrived into the hospital still with concussion symptoms, feeling pretty overwhelmed and unfortunately whilst trying to find the ward another nose bleed began. A kind nurse was leading the way to the ward, (the 'maternity ward' - an unfortunate part of the ovarian cancer surgery process you face, especially when it's previously removed your fertility). With this worse nose bleed than usual, blood was running down onto my hands, and I was being asked by people trying to help, 'Are you pregnant?' With now both tears and blood pouring down, this added to the overwhelm. I was taken into the side room and instead of going for the surgery as I expected, after a discussion my surgeon (wisely) advised my surgery could not go ahead, as my concussion symptoms were still strong.

I am now resting, recharging as much as possible, and trying to prepare for surgery to remove as much cancer as possible on July 14th. I feel peaceful about the delay.

As I said to the netball girls I coach in the week before surgery: sometimes you have to have a plan B and C in life, or if you're Gilly (and many others), a plan D, E etc etc.

I'll try and keep you updated. Thank you as always for the kindness and care. It's valued hugely.

(Piano music in the clip played beautifully by Mum (Bridget)).

Thank you for the kindness on here since I shared my most recent diagnosis in the last post. I really appreciate it!

A few weeks after my news in April I visited The Beatson Cancer Centre with my sister in law, Lucia, who kindly and bravely came with me, (she offered to accompany me - Mum who also offered cares for Dad who has Parkinsons 💔).

Going into The Beatson for the first time since I'd heard the ovarian cancer was back and incurable was a surreal and strange experience.... I've always gone in there to fight the fight with chemotherapy or other treatments. Since 2020, I'd go in to hear my scan results. This time, I was facing discussing my forthcoming surgery, and I'm still not sure I'm 'ready' for the surgery or even over the trauma of the last one for that fact! But I'm grateful for the opportunity of surgery, and that's life...sometimes we aren't ready, but we just have to keep marching on. I also feel extremely blessed to have a very wise oncologist, Dr Stanley, (#portraitsandtalesfromahospitalbed series).

Whilst visiting The Beatson this time, there was a positive and exciting thing to focus on however - that was seeing my first landscape painting, commissioned by The Beatson hospital, now hanging in the family area. 'Secrets of Spring' is the first painting of the seasons I'm working on that's completed and on display at The Beatson. Forever grateful to have been given this commission in 2023; thank you to everyone who played their part in this and @beatsoncharity

This song, Wings of the Dawn, was played on repeat whilst I was first processing the news in April and I've been playing it since, as it's calming, grounding and comforting.

Thank you to Lucia for her photos of this and for coming with me. 🩷

Thank you for the kindness on here since I shared my most recent diagnosis in the last post. I really appreciate it!

A few weeks after my news in April I visited The Beatson Cancer Centre with my sister in law, Lucia, who kindly and bravely came with me, (she offered to accompany me - Mum who also offered cares for Dad who has Parkinsons 💔).

Going into The Beatson for the first time since I'd heard the ovarian cancer was back and incurable was a surreal and strange experience.... I've always gone in there to fight the fight with chemotherapy or other treatments. Since 2020, I'd go in to hear my scan results. This time, I was facing discussing my forthcoming surgery, and I'm still not sure I'm 'ready' for the surgery or even over the trauma of the last one for that fact! But I'm grateful for the opportunity of surgery, and that's life...sometimes we aren't ready, but we just have to keep marching on. I also feel extremely blessed to have a very wise oncologist, Dr Stanley, (#portraitsandtalesfromahospitalbed series).

Whilst visiting The Beatson this time, there was a positive and exciting thing to focus on however - that was seeing my first landscape painting, commissioned by The Beatson hospital, now hanging in the family area. 'Secrets of Spring' is the first painting of the seasons I'm working on that's completed and on display at The Beatson. Forever grateful to have been given this commission in 2023; thank you to everyone who played their part in this and @beatsoncharity

This song, Wings of the Dawn, was played on repeat whilst I was first processing the news in April and I've been playing it since, as it's calming, grounding and comforting.

Thank you to Lucia for her photos of this and for coming with me. 🩷

Cancer's back

I have an update that I find best to share on here. I'm sorry to write that following my advanced ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2020, the ovarian cancer has recurred. I am now facing more surgery, which has been planned for around the summer; it has to be timed right to ensure best chances of the surgery being successful. As is the case with ovarian cancer, now it has recurred, it is incurable.

I plan to continue to work and am so grateful I can with my medics' full support. At the moment I'm sorry I'm not able to get back to everyone's messages as quickly as I'd like, but I usually will share any updates from time to time on stories.

After hearing this diagnosis in the Easter holidays, this song immediately came into my head: You're gonna be okay,' by Jenn Johnson. I am so very grateful for the army of support I have in family and friends.

Ultimately, I continue to lean into my faith, and that gives me a sure hope. That when I finally run into heaven, whenever that day will be, I know I'll be greeted by the warmest unimaginable love from my Heavenly Father, into heavenly paradise. There will be no more suffering, no more trauma, memories, nightmares...but just life forever, full and free, as it was meant to be.

Of course, I know that meanwhile this journey will naturally be hard. But, at the end of the day, death does not get the final say. Love reigns, and love always wins.

But the story isn't over yet.
And I plan to dance my way there.
❤️

Photo taken at The Beatson Hospital this week, thanks to Lucia. @beatsoncharity

Cancer's back

I have an update that I find best to share on here. I'm sorry to write that following my advanced ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2020, the ovarian cancer has recurred. I am now facing more surgery, which has been planned for around the summer; it has to be timed right to ensure best chances of the surgery being successful. As is the case with ovarian cancer, now it has recurred, it is incurable.

I plan to continue to work and am so grateful I can with my medics' full support. At the moment I'm sorry I'm not able to get back to everyone's messages as quickly as I'd like, but I usually will share any updates from time to time on stories.

After hearing this diagnosis in the Easter holidays, this song immediately came into my head: You're gonna be okay,' by Jenn Johnson. I am so very grateful for the army of support I have in family and friends.

Ultimately, I continue to lean into my faith, and that gives me a sure hope. That when I finally run into heaven, whenever that day will be, I know I'll be greeted by the warmest unimaginable love from my Heavenly Father, into heavenly paradise. There will be no more suffering, no more trauma, memories, nightmares...but just life forever, full and free, as it was meant to be.

Of course, I know that meanwhile this journey will naturally be hard. But, at the end of the day, death does not get the final say. Love reigns, and love always wins.

But the story isn't over yet.
And I plan to dance my way there.
❤️

Photo taken at The Beatson Hospital this week, thanks to Lucia. @beatsoncharity

Sketchbook series: Lily in summer

Lily is my 2 year old niece, who was born in Autumn of 2023 at a very poignant time. It was the hardest time of my life so far, as I reeled from the aftermath of life's circumstances, and along she came. Since she was born, she has been a joy and huge comfort and light in my life, (as all my nieces and nephews have).

I am forever grateful to my sister, Lucy, for sharing her so generously with me and letting me have the bond we have together. 🩷 We laugh and chat and have fun together. Recently, when I had flu, Lily came over and pulled up a chair whilst I was on the couch and said, "You not feeling well, Gilly?" Then in the softest caring voice, quietly soothed: "It's okay, I'll keep you safe."

This was Lily last summer, on a holiday playing in the sea, which reminds me of happy childhood memories, and napping in the sun in the garden, both studies as part of my sketchbook series drawing from life.

🩷

Sketchbook series: Lily in summer

Lily is my 2 year old niece, who was born in Autumn of 2023 at a very poignant time. It was the hardest time of my life so far, as I reeled from the aftermath of life's circumstances, and along she came. Since she was born, she has been a joy and huge comfort and light in my life, (as all my nieces and nephews have).

I am forever grateful to my sister, Lucy, for sharing her so generously with me and letting me have the bond we have together. 🩷 We laugh and chat and have fun together. Recently, when I had flu, Lily came over and pulled up a chair whilst I was on the couch and said, "You not feeling well, Gilly?" Then in the softest caring voice, quietly soothed: "It's okay, I'll keep you safe."

This was Lily last summer, on a holiday playing in the sea, which reminds me of happy childhood memories, and napping in the sun in the garden, both studies as part of my sketchbook series drawing from life.

🩷

I hear that tomorrow would've been Her Majesty the Queen's 100th birthday. I thought I'd share this watercolour and my ink pen drawing of Queen Elizabeth to mark the occasion.

I wanted to share them because:

1. This painting was inspired from a photo of The Queen in young and maybe more carefree days. A carefree spirit that perhaps wasn't seen as publicly as her years progressed, and the restrictions, boundaries and sacrifices, she wholeheartedly accepted and embraced (which are often overlooked) to serve this country.

2. I admire and am constantly in awe of The Prince and Princess of Wales, Prince William and Princess Catherine. No matter what life throws their way, they remain so constant, so unbelievably humble, down to earth, graceful and gentle. They serve people and their country with amazing compassion.

3. Because The Queen had so much private heartache and sorrow yet kept marching on.

I hope you enjoy the paintings too.

🩷

Queen Elizabeth II
Watercolour on paper
******
Poem written when I created the portrait in 2022:

To us, she was our Queen
To some she was their mother
To others she was their 'Grannie'
To royals she was their 'Lilibet'

The unfathomable and mostly unknown sacrifices our Queen made,
To carry out her role with such
consistency, dedication
steadfast vision, and courage,
I think made her the inspiring leader she was and continues to be.
When life's storms blew, she held on,
With the world's eyes upon her,
she remained steady, constant,
trustworthy and caring in her
service to her people.
She spoke of her unwavering faith,
Her trustworthy anchor,
And all the while she taught us,
In her own unique way,
There is much more to this life:

There is trust, and hope, and light.

********

I hoped to depict some of the Queen's less known moments; those off guard moments. In these we see a caring, compassionate mother, a free soul, a joyful child….
@theroyalfamily
@princeandprincessofwales
@royalcollectiontrust

I hear that tomorrow would've been Her Majesty the Queen's 100th birthday. I thought I'd share this watercolour and my ink pen drawing of Queen Elizabeth to mark the occasion.

I wanted to share them because:

1. This painting was inspired from a photo of The Queen in young and maybe more carefree days. A carefree spirit that perhaps wasn't seen as publicly as her years progressed, and the restrictions, boundaries and sacrifices, she wholeheartedly accepted and embraced (which are often overlooked) to serve this country.

2. I admire and am constantly in awe of The Prince and Princess of Wales, Prince William and Princess Catherine. No matter what life throws their way, they remain so constant, so unbelievably humble, down to earth, graceful and gentle. They serve people and their country with amazing compassion.

3. Because The Queen had so much private heartache and sorrow yet kept marching on.

I hope you enjoy the paintings too.

🩷

Queen Elizabeth II
Watercolour on paper
******
Poem written when I created the portrait in 2022:

To us, she was our Queen
To some she was their mother
To others she was their 'Grannie'
To royals she was their 'Lilibet'

The unfathomable and mostly unknown sacrifices our Queen made,
To carry out her role with such
consistency, dedication
steadfast vision, and courage,
I think made her the inspiring leader she was and continues to be.
When life's storms blew, she held on,
With the world's eyes upon her,
she remained steady, constant,
trustworthy and caring in her
service to her people.
She spoke of her unwavering faith,
Her trustworthy anchor,
And all the while she taught us,
In her own unique way,
There is much more to this life:

There is trust, and hope, and light.

********

I hoped to depict some of the Queen's less known moments; those off guard moments. In these we see a caring, compassionate mother, a free soul, a joyful child….
@theroyalfamily
@princeandprincessofwales
@royalcollectiontrust

Spring Sketchbook (2)

In the last few years, I've learned to look for joy in the everyday moments that otherwise pass you by. Immersing myself in them when I was drawing from life was so relaxing and enjoyable. All the drawings were completed in pen and ink from life, so whilst the subjects were moving somewhat, speed of line and memory replaced a higher level of detail.

Drawing 1: My little niece Lily helping Mum hang out the washing, with our vintage push-along waiting beside her

Drawing 2: Dad and Mum eating breakfast

Drawing 3: Ellis relaxing (Debbie's son - Debbie's portrait was: 'The nurse who's always been there' )

Hope you're all doing okay. We're right into Spring now, my favourite season.

Spring Sketchbook (2)

In the last few years, I've learned to look for joy in the everyday moments that otherwise pass you by. Immersing myself in them when I was drawing from life was so relaxing and enjoyable. All the drawings were completed in pen and ink from life, so whilst the subjects were moving somewhat, speed of line and memory replaced a higher level of detail.

Drawing 1: My little niece Lily helping Mum hang out the washing, with our vintage push-along waiting beside her

Drawing 2: Dad and Mum eating breakfast

Drawing 3: Ellis relaxing (Debbie's son - Debbie's portrait was: 'The nurse who's always been there' )

Hope you're all doing okay. We're right into Spring now, my favourite season.

Last year in spring, I entered the Shirley Hughes Sketchbook Award competition.
I did it because I thought I'd give it a go and because Shirley is one of my all-time-childhood-favourite illustrators. I didn't win, and I wasn't shortlisted, but that's artist life; I enjoyed the process!

I dont want to join 'only show the best bits culture,' but want to show it real and as it is - all the hard bits, or work behind the scenes too. This competition got me drawing from life again, getting outdoors to pause and observe while drawing, pondering, reflecting, and just soaking up real life. It also reignited my love for drawing from life, and I've always loved sketchbooks. They're beautiful objects that show the raw, unedited, creative, smudgey, dropped ink stains, workings of an artist's mind - unique, like beautiful secret diaries.

This is one of my favourites from the body of sketchbook work I did, because it's of a heart-melting moment of a little girl bringing daffodils to her Grandpa in the park; the moment and the light remain alive in my memory. It isn't perfectly drawn, has plenty that could be corrected, and I wasn't sure about sharing it on here, but then thought SHOVE IT. (Also, the other day, my lovely friend Libby encouraged me to share art I'd been doing again).

Drawing from life is really hard as you have to do it super fast, and record on paper whilst 'taking a photo' in your mind, to capture the essence of a scene. So it trades a pursuit for perfection or correctness with a rawness, energy and life. The next image above shows one of my favourite Easter scenes nearby, a beautiful road with hundreds of daffodils waving as you walk/drive by; clouds of pure sunshine sharing joy and hope, which is at the heart of Easter itself. On that day, a school trip walked by, so, instantly inspired by the legendary Shirley, I tried to catch it with my brown ink dip pen, inspired (and so kindly recommended a few years ago) by @charliemackesy

Borrowing from @katecbowler 's tradition of monthly ins and outs, mine are:

April ins: Do it - shove it.
April outs: Expecting life to tidily fit into perfectionism and ideals

Hope you're all doing okay!

Last year in spring, I entered the Shirley Hughes Sketchbook Award competition.
I did it because I thought I'd give it a go and because Shirley is one of my all-time-childhood-favourite illustrators. I didn't win, and I wasn't shortlisted, but that's artist life; I enjoyed the process!

I dont want to join 'only show the best bits culture,' but want to show it real and as it is - all the hard bits, or work behind the scenes too. This competition got me drawing from life again, getting outdoors to pause and observe while drawing, pondering, reflecting, and just soaking up real life. It also reignited my love for drawing from life, and I've always loved sketchbooks. They're beautiful objects that show the raw, unedited, creative, smudgey, dropped ink stains, workings of an artist's mind - unique, like beautiful secret diaries.

This is one of my favourites from the body of sketchbook work I did, because it's of a heart-melting moment of a little girl bringing daffodils to her Grandpa in the park; the moment and the light remain alive in my memory. It isn't perfectly drawn, has plenty that could be corrected, and I wasn't sure about sharing it on here, but then thought SHOVE IT. (Also, the other day, my lovely friend Libby encouraged me to share art I'd been doing again).

Drawing from life is really hard as you have to do it super fast, and record on paper whilst 'taking a photo' in your mind, to capture the essence of a scene. So it trades a pursuit for perfection or correctness with a rawness, energy and life. The next image above shows one of my favourite Easter scenes nearby, a beautiful road with hundreds of daffodils waving as you walk/drive by; clouds of pure sunshine sharing joy and hope, which is at the heart of Easter itself. On that day, a school trip walked by, so, instantly inspired by the legendary Shirley, I tried to catch it with my brown ink dip pen, inspired (and so kindly recommended a few years ago) by @charliemackesy

Borrowing from @katecbowler 's tradition of monthly ins and outs, mine are:

April ins: Do it - shove it.
April outs: Expecting life to tidily fit into perfectionism and ideals

Hope you're all doing okay!

Merry Christmas!

This pen and ink drawing is a core memory of happiness from childhood on the Isle of Wight, with family, and our Grandma by the tree. I'm on the far right and can remember the excitement and wonder that I associated with Christmas as a child. There's something irreplaceable about that feeling.

I hope you experience peace, joy and hope this Christmas. I'm thinking a lot of those I know who are in hard places, in grief or heartbroken, and hope you have even unexpected moments of peace, joy and hope.

Wishing you all a lovely Christmas wherever you are.

#childhoodillustrated #inkdrawing #penandinkdrawing #christmasillustration #christmas

Merry Christmas!

This pen and ink drawing is a core memory of happiness from childhood on the Isle of Wight, with family, and our Grandma by the tree. I'm on the far right and can remember the excitement and wonder that I associated with Christmas as a child. There's something irreplaceable about that feeling.

I hope you experience peace, joy and hope this Christmas. I'm thinking a lot of those I know who are in hard places, in grief or heartbroken, and hope you have even unexpected moments of peace, joy and hope.

Wishing you all a lovely Christmas wherever you are.

#childhoodillustrated #inkdrawing #penandinkdrawing #christmasillustration #christmas

**Finished painting: 'Secrets of Spring'**
Oil on canvas
1.2x 0.9m

After working on this painting for over a year, it is finally finished and handed to The Beatson Cancer Hospital in Glasgow to be exhibited on their hospital walls! It is the largest painting I've ever done. Following the staff and patient workshop, we decided a bluebell wood in spring would provide calm, solace, and an escapism for people walking through The Beatson hospital. Whether they are patients, staff, or family, I hoped to create an immersive experience when they find this beautiful bluebell wood in front of them on the hospital wall, as if they could almost step in to the scene. I visited the bluebells here whilst recovering from chemo after being a patient at The Beatson, so I'm really glad to be able to share an experience that helped me during cancer recovery. Thank you so much to The Beatson for asking me to do this and for all their support. It has been invaluable to have this painting to work on. I'm looking forward to painting the next autumnal season, which is the next one in the series.

#scottishartist #paintingoncanvas #oilpaintingoncanvas #oilpainting #landscapepainting #paintingnature #artistpainting

**Finished painting: 'Secrets of Spring'**
Oil on canvas
1.2x 0.9m

After working on this painting for over a year, it is finally finished and handed to The Beatson Cancer Hospital in Glasgow to be exhibited on their hospital walls! It is the largest painting I've ever done. Following the staff and patient workshop, we decided a bluebell wood in spring would provide calm, solace, and an escapism for people walking through The Beatson hospital. Whether they are patients, staff, or family, I hoped to create an immersive experience when they find this beautiful bluebell wood in front of them on the hospital wall, as if they could almost step in to the scene. I visited the bluebells here whilst recovering from chemo after being a patient at The Beatson, so I'm really glad to be able to share an experience that helped me during cancer recovery. Thank you so much to The Beatson for asking me to do this and for all their support. It has been invaluable to have this painting to work on. I'm looking forward to painting the next autumnal season, which is the next one in the series.

#scottishartist #paintingoncanvas #oilpaintingoncanvas #oilpainting #landscapepainting #paintingnature #artistpainting

Work in progress: 'Secrets of Spring''
Painting commission for Beatson Cancer Hospital
Oil on canvas

Adding the bluebells bit by bit....
In the workshop consultation I organised with the staff and patients at The Beatson hospital, a bluebell wood was repeatedly suggested for an area of calm. Painting the bluebells reminded me of exactly why they are so calming and uplifting to be around. I hope patients passing by this in the Beatson's hospital corridor can enjoy a few moments 'amongst the bluebells.'

Over the last year (and a bit), I've been working on an exciting commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital in Glasgow. It is the largest oil painting I've created at 1.2 x 0.9m. See previous posts for the context of the commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital.

#scottishartist #landscapepaintings #oilpaintings #paintingoncanvas #paintingnature #artistpainting #oilpainting

Work in progress: 'Secrets of Spring''
Painting commission for Beatson Cancer Hospital
Oil on canvas

Adding the bluebells bit by bit....
In the workshop consultation I organised with the staff and patients at The Beatson hospital, a bluebell wood was repeatedly suggested for an area of calm. Painting the bluebells reminded me of exactly why they are so calming and uplifting to be around. I hope patients passing by this in the Beatson's hospital corridor can enjoy a few moments 'amongst the bluebells.'

Over the last year (and a bit), I've been working on an exciting commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital in Glasgow. It is the largest oil painting I've created at 1.2 x 0.9m. See previous posts for the context of the commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital.

#scottishartist #landscapepaintings #oilpaintings #paintingoncanvas #paintingnature #artistpainting #oilpainting

Work in progress: 'Secrets of Spring''
Painting commission for Beatson Cancer Hospital
Oil on canvas

These sections of the painting portray the background of the bluebell wood, where light breaks through, around the tree, and softly falls on the scene. I think it remains one of my favourite bits of the full painting overall. The painting will be exhibited permanently in The Beatson Cancer Hospital and it is my hope that it brings a little bit of the outside in and that the light in this section reminds patients (and staff) of hope. Nature is so grounding, and the soft light in the background of this woodland speaks of the beauty and hope to be found even in gruelling days.

Over the last year (and a bit), I've been working on an exciting commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital in Glasgow. It is the largest oil painting I've created at 1.2 x 0.9m. See previous post for the context and details of the commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital.

Work in progress: 'Secrets of Spring''
Painting commission for Beatson Cancer Hospital
Oil on canvas

These sections of the painting portray the background of the bluebell wood, where light breaks through, around the tree, and softly falls on the scene. I think it remains one of my favourite bits of the full painting overall. The painting will be exhibited permanently in The Beatson Cancer Hospital and it is my hope that it brings a little bit of the outside in and that the light in this section reminds patients (and staff) of hope. Nature is so grounding, and the soft light in the background of this woodland speaks of the beauty and hope to be found even in gruelling days.

Over the last year (and a bit), I've been working on an exciting commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital in Glasgow. It is the largest oil painting I've created at 1.2 x 0.9m. See previous post for the context and details of the commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital.

Work in progress: Section of 'Spring' Beatson painting (to be named)
Oil on canvas

Over the last year (and a bit), I've been working on an exciting commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital in Glasgow! After being invited to deliver a talk at the CRUK Scottish conference in 2022, this project was suggested by a very kind doctor, oncologist, and the CEO of the Beatson who contacted me to commission paintings to hang on the hospital walls in the Beatson hospital. Last January I delivered a consultation workshop which staff and patients of The Beatson were invited to, and we discussed what they would like to see on the walls of the hospital. After listening and considering many ideas, it was decided I would create landscape paintings which feature nature and focus on the seasons as inspiration. Nature was the choice of everyone for calm relaxation! The first Spring painting features a bluebell wood. Bluebell woods were unanimously suggested as places that provide joy and are uplifting. Bluebell woods also happen to be one of my favourite places to go! During my recovery from chemotherapy and cancer treatment I often visited them, so this one at Keil's Den was the inspiration for this first painting. I'll share the first painting in a few stages. (My phone camera alters the colours a bit, so it is more natural a green in real life). It is the largest oil painting I've created at 1.2 x 0.9m. This scale was so good for making expressive painterly marks, very freeing! The photos show initial stages of grasses, daffodil stalks and the ancient tree which sits as old and wise in the middle of the painting.

Work in progress: Section of 'Spring' Beatson painting (to be named)
Oil on canvas

Over the last year (and a bit), I've been working on an exciting commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital in Glasgow! After being invited to deliver a talk at the CRUK Scottish conference in 2022, this project was suggested by a very kind doctor, oncologist, and the CEO of the Beatson who contacted me to commission paintings to hang on the hospital walls in the Beatson hospital. Last January I delivered a consultation workshop which staff and patients of The Beatson were invited to, and we discussed what they would like to see on the walls of the hospital. After listening and considering many ideas, it was decided I would create landscape paintings which feature nature and focus on the seasons as inspiration. Nature was the choice of everyone for calm relaxation! The first Spring painting features a bluebell wood. Bluebell woods were unanimously suggested as places that provide joy and are uplifting. Bluebell woods also happen to be one of my favourite places to go! During my recovery from chemotherapy and cancer treatment I often visited them, so this one at Keil's Den was the inspiration for this first painting. I'll share the first painting in a few stages. (My phone camera alters the colours a bit, so it is more natural a green in real life). It is the largest oil painting I've created at 1.2 x 0.9m. This scale was so good for making expressive painterly marks, very freeing! The photos show initial stages of grasses, daffodil stalks and the ancient tree which sits as old and wise in the middle of the painting.

🎊 Opening of V&A Dundee opening featuring 'Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed!' 🎊

The opening of V&A Dundee's exhibition 'Ninewells Hospital: Care, Community and Innovation' was superb! It features portraits from 'Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed' which is exciting! The exhibition runs until September and is really fascinating with lots to learn about the inspiring and innovative medical work of Ninewells Hospital over the last 50 years.

Thank you to those who were able to drop by! 🥰 Thank you very much to the V&A for featuring the work from Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed! @vadundee

Details below of how I became involved from my last post:

A few months ago, I was surprised and honoured to receive an email asking if the V&A museum in Dundee may feature a few portraits from the series in their forthcoming exhibition celebrating 50 years of Ninewells Hospital. Of course I was delighted and said yes! I am so delighted each of these NHS people will be celebrated in such a way, and of course the wider team as the series spotlights and highlights all of their compassion to others in tough times, and self- sacrifice.
(The portrait of nurse Jen from 'Carrying a smile to carry you' was selected to be featured but due to logistics V&A informed me they weren't able to fit this one in too so it will resume in the main exhibition in Ninewells Hospital Ward 7!)
The exhibition runs from Saturday until 14th September, and is free to visit.

#portraitsandtalesfromahospitalbed #vanda #vandamuseum

🎊 Opening of V&A Dundee opening featuring 'Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed!' 🎊

The opening of V&A Dundee's exhibition 'Ninewells Hospital: Care, Community and Innovation' was superb! It features portraits from 'Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed' which is exciting! The exhibition runs until September and is really fascinating with lots to learn about the inspiring and innovative medical work of Ninewells Hospital over the last 50 years.

Thank you to those who were able to drop by! 🥰 Thank you very much to the V&A for featuring the work from Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed! @vadundee

Details below of how I became involved from my last post:

A few months ago, I was surprised and honoured to receive an email asking if the V&A museum in Dundee may feature a few portraits from the series in their forthcoming exhibition celebrating 50 years of Ninewells Hospital. Of course I was delighted and said yes! I am so delighted each of these NHS people will be celebrated in such a way, and of course the wider team as the series spotlights and highlights all of their compassion to others in tough times, and self- sacrifice.
(The portrait of nurse Jen from 'Carrying a smile to carry you' was selected to be featured but due to logistics V&A informed me they weren't able to fit this one in too so it will resume in the main exhibition in Ninewells Hospital Ward 7!)
The exhibition runs from Saturday until 14th September, and is free to visit.

#portraitsandtalesfromahospitalbed #vanda #vandamuseum

🎉 V&A Dundee exhibition featuring 'Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed!' 🎉

A few months ago I was surprised and honoured to receive an email asking if the V&A museum in Dundee may feature a few portraits from the series in their forthcoming exhibition, 'Ninewells Hospital: Care, Community and Innovation.' Of course I was delighted and said yes! They've chosen three portraits (featured above) and the excerpts from their tales. Dorin, my kind and wonderful bowel consultant has been chosen to feature in her portrait: 'She's simply a legend,' 2020, along with Jennifer, the lovely, cheery nurse who made me smile in her portrait: 'Carrying a smile to carry you,' 2021. And Margaret, the domestic who thoughtfully and generously brings her own lavender spray to make the wards that bit nicer for the patients; this portrait is right back where the individual portraits began and her portrait: 'She brings her own lavender spray,' 2020 will be displayed. I am so delighted each of these NHS people will be celebrated in such a way, and of course the wider team as the series spotlights and highlights all of their compassion to others during tough times.

The exhibition's opening is this Saturday at 11am at the V&A Dundee, so I'm excited for this! The exhibition runs from Saturday until 14th September, and is free to visit so do pop in if you're in the area and have the chance.

Thank you very much to the V&A for featuring the work from Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed! @vadundee

#portraitsandtalesfromahospitalbed #vanda #vandamuseum

🎉 V&A Dundee exhibition featuring 'Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed!' 🎉

A few months ago I was surprised and honoured to receive an email asking if the V&A museum in Dundee may feature a few portraits from the series in their forthcoming exhibition, 'Ninewells Hospital: Care, Community and Innovation.' Of course I was delighted and said yes! They've chosen three portraits (featured above) and the excerpts from their tales. Dorin, my kind and wonderful bowel consultant has been chosen to feature in her portrait: 'She's simply a legend,' 2020, along with Jennifer, the lovely, cheery nurse who made me smile in her portrait: 'Carrying a smile to carry you,' 2021. And Margaret, the domestic who thoughtfully and generously brings her own lavender spray to make the wards that bit nicer for the patients; this portrait is right back where the individual portraits began and her portrait: 'She brings her own lavender spray,' 2020 will be displayed. I am so delighted each of these NHS people will be celebrated in such a way, and of course the wider team as the series spotlights and highlights all of their compassion to others during tough times.

The exhibition's opening is this Saturday at 11am at the V&A Dundee, so I'm excited for this! The exhibition runs from Saturday until 14th September, and is free to visit so do pop in if you're in the area and have the chance.

Thank you very much to the V&A for featuring the work from Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed! @vadundee

#portraitsandtalesfromahospitalbed #vanda #vandamuseum

✨️ 'Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed' goes international! ✨️

I'm delighted to share that prints of 'Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed' have travelled to Australia! 🌏

It is amazing to think interactions conveying such compassion from NHS health workers have been immortalised in portraits and accompanying tales, and this led to some, (mostly from the beginning of the collection), winding their way to Australia, via airmail! I love that these people's kindness is recorded and recognised in this way in the long term, and their otherwise unknown acts of service and kindness will remain, inspiring others. I also love hearing that healthcare workers anywhere can relate and see themselves reflected in these portraits, as they act as a wider thank you to those people, too.

The portraits and tales came about during my recovery from ovarian cancer. Thank you to Georgie from OCRF for seeing the portraits and arranging to buy them. The Australian charity @ocrf have accomplished a huge amount for people affected by ovarian cancer. I look forward to seeing how they will use the portraits over in Aus! Thank you so much @ocrf for this!

Thank you to all of you for being here. Your support means so much.

📸 by Eve Conroy, thank you @eveconroyphoto

#portraitsandtalesfromahospitalbed #portraitartist #scottishartist #thankyounhs #thankyounhsstaff #ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness #cancerrecovery

✨️ 'Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed' goes international! ✨️

I'm delighted to share that prints of 'Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed' have travelled to Australia! 🌏

It is amazing to think interactions conveying such compassion from NHS health workers have been immortalised in portraits and accompanying tales, and this led to some, (mostly from the beginning of the collection), winding their way to Australia, via airmail! I love that these people's kindness is recorded and recognised in this way in the long term, and their otherwise unknown acts of service and kindness will remain, inspiring others. I also love hearing that healthcare workers anywhere can relate and see themselves reflected in these portraits, as they act as a wider thank you to those people, too.

The portraits and tales came about during my recovery from ovarian cancer. Thank you to Georgie from OCRF for seeing the portraits and arranging to buy them. The Australian charity @ocrf have accomplished a huge amount for people affected by ovarian cancer. I look forward to seeing how they will use the portraits over in Aus! Thank you so much @ocrf for this!

Thank you to all of you for being here. Your support means so much.

📸 by Eve Conroy, thank you @eveconroyphoto

#portraitsandtalesfromahospitalbed #portraitartist #scottishartist #thankyounhs #thankyounhsstaff #ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness #cancerrecovery

🩷 Five years milestone! Five years post cancer surgery this week! 🩷

Five years 'cancerversary' is here! (though not sure I like that term..)

Five years ago, on Monday 31st March 2020, I had my fateful but lifesaving surgery. Fateful, because it stole my fertility, life saving, because it allowed me to live to today, instead of to the summer of 2020. Ovarian cancer was killing me and had ravaged too much inside. At that point I couldn't be sure I'd make it five years, but I am so thankful I have. I honestly didn't know if I'd still be here in 5 years, so to be here with no evidence of cancer on scans is nothing short of amazing. Cancer has a way of showing you life in a different way, putting things in perspective. Many of you know I'm always calling 'Yolo' over my shoulder, but it really is true, isn't it?

I never knew doing my own art (aside from teaching) would bring so much escapism and healing.
The photo above top left was March 30th, 2020, going in for surgery alone. Five years on and many portraits later, it has been the most awful and traumatic ride of life since in many ways, yet also some of the most amazing, brilliant life moments. Other photos are of Dorin, and my oncology team with their portraits- all wonderful people!

Thank you to every single medic who has cared for me to date. And thank you to all of you! I am ever grateful you're here. Thank you to everyone who's not photographed in my post, but etched firmly in my memory for being here for me. I couldn't be more grateful for everyone's support, both in person and on here, through prayers, messages, and calls. Cancer has affected and touched every single area of my life, and treatment has long-term effects on numerous organs, including bowel, gut, heart, muscles etc etc... but thankfully scans are still showing 'NED'! 🙏

Ps As I write this I've thought lots about my lovely friends who are no longer here, Nicola, and Hamish my bus driver friend from school, dearly missed.💔🩷 Cancer is a mystery. I really hope by campaigning, more don't have to face ovarian cancer or the aftermath of treatment from advanced disease. That would be wonderful.

🩷 Five years milestone! Five years post cancer surgery this week! 🩷

Five years 'cancerversary' is here! (though not sure I like that term..)

Five years ago, on Monday 31st March 2020, I had my fateful but lifesaving surgery. Fateful, because it stole my fertility, life saving, because it allowed me to live to today, instead of to the summer of 2020. Ovarian cancer was killing me and had ravaged too much inside. At that point I couldn't be sure I'd make it five years, but I am so thankful I have. I honestly didn't know if I'd still be here in 5 years, so to be here with no evidence of cancer on scans is nothing short of amazing. Cancer has a way of showing you life in a different way, putting things in perspective. Many of you know I'm always calling 'Yolo' over my shoulder, but it really is true, isn't it?

I never knew doing my own art (aside from teaching) would bring so much escapism and healing.
The photo above top left was March 30th, 2020, going in for surgery alone. Five years on and many portraits later, it has been the most awful and traumatic ride of life since in many ways, yet also some of the most amazing, brilliant life moments. Other photos are of Dorin, and my oncology team with their portraits- all wonderful people!

Thank you to every single medic who has cared for me to date. And thank you to all of you! I am ever grateful you're here. Thank you to everyone who's not photographed in my post, but etched firmly in my memory for being here for me. I couldn't be more grateful for everyone's support, both in person and on here, through prayers, messages, and calls. Cancer has affected and touched every single area of my life, and treatment has long-term effects on numerous organs, including bowel, gut, heart, muscles etc etc... but thankfully scans are still showing 'NED'! 🙏

Ps As I write this I've thought lots about my lovely friends who are no longer here, Nicola, and Hamish my bus driver friend from school, dearly missed.💔🩷 Cancer is a mystery. I really hope by campaigning, more don't have to face ovarian cancer or the aftermath of treatment from advanced disease. That would be wonderful.

'A Pocketful of Lambs' Original drawings
For Sale
Ink

The second edition of 'A Pocketful of Lambs' is fresh off the drawing board and these little bleating lambs are ready to go to their new homes! Celebrating Spring which has sprung, and I think is probably my favourite season, as we've still got all of my other favourite season (summer) ahead.
One from The Goldfinch Gallery, Comrie, has already found his home on a farm, and a second has left the flock, but the other one in there waits to be scooped up and can be seen if you swipe to the end.
The other three pictured here can be distinguished by either running, grazing or standing, and are all ready for sale and framed. They are at a special introductory price this year for the original drawing and frame of £38 plus p&p. Please give me a DM if you'd like to buy, first come, first served. Swipe to see one little lamb in its frame. Size: 11.6cmx16.7cm

Update: Lamb 1 (running) sold

#inkdrawings #penandink #peninkdrawing #penink #sketchdrawings #lambs #spring #springlamb #springlambs #scottishartist

'A Pocketful of Lambs' Original drawings
For Sale
Ink

The second edition of 'A Pocketful of Lambs' is fresh off the drawing board and these little bleating lambs are ready to go to their new homes! Celebrating Spring which has sprung, and I think is probably my favourite season, as we've still got all of my other favourite season (summer) ahead.
One from The Goldfinch Gallery, Comrie, has already found his home on a farm, and a second has left the flock, but the other one in there waits to be scooped up and can be seen if you swipe to the end.
The other three pictured here can be distinguished by either running, grazing or standing, and are all ready for sale and framed. They are at a special introductory price this year for the original drawing and frame of £38 plus p&p. Please give me a DM if you'd like to buy, first come, first served. Swipe to see one little lamb in its frame. Size: 11.6cmx16.7cm

Update: Lamb 1 (running) sold

#inkdrawings #penandink #peninkdrawing #penink #sketchdrawings #lambs #spring #springlamb #springlambs #scottishartist

Yesterday was World Cancer Day.
(Clips: BBC Scotland documentary film, 2021)
Full film - link in bio

I'm a day later in posting this because yesterday I didn't get a chance, due to work stuff, but maybe that's okay - maybe it can be used to point to the aftermath of cancer and its longer impact, once the initial phase of treatment is over.

Cancer is certainly not only about the 'acute response' phase of treatment - there is an aftermath of treatment - and we don't return to life the same. This, of course, looks different for everyone but is true, as Princess Catherine of Wales has spoken out about recently.

I have, however, learned that light can come out of darkness. I've also learned, as the last film clip shows, that we can be heartbroken and find joy at the same time. Those two things can coexist...
And sometimes, the joy can even quiten the ache, and those are moments to cherish.

Tomorrow is my 38th birthday, and I'm so thankful I'm here to see it. 🎂

I have been thinking lots about one of my closest friends, Nicola, who walked through cancer at the same time, then tragically passed away from cancer in Autumn 2023. I still miss her loads.
I also have been thinking of and missing my friend Hamish, who I met as a school bus driver when I was using the school bus. He became like a Grandpa figure to me, which I told him on what, unbeknown to me at the time, was our last phone call before he passed away in Autumn 2023.

I am grateful to have the memories of such wonderful friends.🩷💔
Thinking of everyone affected from cancer.

@bbcscotland
Filmmaker: the talented Rachel and Rowan, BBC Scotland @mmeracquel

#worldcancerday #cancerrecovery #ovariancancer #cancer #artistoninstagram #portraitartist

Yesterday was World Cancer Day.
(Clips: BBC Scotland documentary film, 2021)
Full film - link in bio

I'm a day later in posting this because yesterday I didn't get a chance, due to work stuff, but maybe that's okay - maybe it can be used to point to the aftermath of cancer and its longer impact, once the initial phase of treatment is over.

Cancer is certainly not only about the 'acute response' phase of treatment - there is an aftermath of treatment - and we don't return to life the same. This, of course, looks different for everyone but is true, as Princess Catherine of Wales has spoken out about recently.

I have, however, learned that light can come out of darkness. I've also learned, as the last film clip shows, that we can be heartbroken and find joy at the same time. Those two things can coexist...
And sometimes, the joy can even quiten the ache, and those are moments to cherish.

Tomorrow is my 38th birthday, and I'm so thankful I'm here to see it. 🎂

I have been thinking lots about one of my closest friends, Nicola, who walked through cancer at the same time, then tragically passed away from cancer in Autumn 2023. I still miss her loads.
I also have been thinking of and missing my friend Hamish, who I met as a school bus driver when I was using the school bus. He became like a Grandpa figure to me, which I told him on what, unbeknown to me at the time, was our last phone call before he passed away in Autumn 2023.

I am grateful to have the memories of such wonderful friends.🩷💔
Thinking of everyone affected from cancer.

@bbcscotland
Filmmaker: the talented Rachel and Rowan, BBC Scotland @mmeracquel

#worldcancerday #cancerrecovery #ovariancancer #cancer #artistoninstagram #portraitartist

✨️I'm delighted to share that this beautiful gallery now represent my work! (@gillyartist)
The Goldfinch Gallery, Comrie, Perthshire, has a winter show opening this Thursday 5th December, from 5pm to 8pm! ✨️

(Swipe to see some of the original winter paintings in watercolour and oil. There will also be prints of these paintings and original drawings.)

The winter show is a mixed exhibition featuring a wide range of artist's work, including some well-known names, many local Perthshire artists, and some up and coming artists. I feel honoured to exhibit alongside each of these artists, (list below).

It's been an exciting few weeks becoming part of the artist's collective and volunteering some shifts in the gallery. I love meeting the people who come in.

You are warmly invited to come along to the opening. As it happens, Comrie are hosting their Christmas Village evening, so you can go into each of the shops, and I hear you will be greeted with a warm festive drink.

Hope to see anyone who can be there! 💙

Exhibiting artists:

Philip Braham RSA @philipbraham
Claire Harkess RSW RGI @claireharkess
Madeleine Davenport ARSMA @madeleinedavenportart
Jon Bishop
Shiela Roberts
Kathy Collins
Gilly McLaren
Jonathan Sainsbury RSW
Shionagh Primrose
Linda Farquarson RSA
Lin Pattullo
Liz Kemp
Hetty Williams
Lucy Campbell
and more!

Thank you for representing my work, @goldfinchgallerycomrie
#artexhibition #scottishartists #watercolourlandscape #artgallery #artists

✨️I'm delighted to share that this beautiful gallery now represent my work! (@gillyartist)
The Goldfinch Gallery, Comrie, Perthshire, has a winter show opening this Thursday 5th December, from 5pm to 8pm! ✨️

(Swipe to see some of the original winter paintings in watercolour and oil. There will also be prints of these paintings and original drawings.)

The winter show is a mixed exhibition featuring a wide range of artist's work, including some well-known names, many local Perthshire artists, and some up and coming artists. I feel honoured to exhibit alongside each of these artists, (list below).

It's been an exciting few weeks becoming part of the artist's collective and volunteering some shifts in the gallery. I love meeting the people who come in.

You are warmly invited to come along to the opening. As it happens, Comrie are hosting their Christmas Village evening, so you can go into each of the shops, and I hear you will be greeted with a warm festive drink.

Hope to see anyone who can be there! 💙

Exhibiting artists:

Philip Braham RSA @philipbraham
Claire Harkess RSW RGI @claireharkess
Madeleine Davenport ARSMA @madeleinedavenportart
Jon Bishop
Shiela Roberts
Kathy Collins
Gilly McLaren
Jonathan Sainsbury RSW
Shionagh Primrose
Linda Farquarson RSA
Lin Pattullo
Liz Kemp
Hetty Williams
Lucy Campbell
and more!

Thank you for representing my work, @goldfinchgallerycomrie
#artexhibition #scottishartists #watercolourlandscape #artgallery #artists

✨️✨️The Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed collection has received a parliamentary motion!✨️✨️

Thank you so much!
@evelyntweed_snp

A little while ago, SNP MSP Evelyn Tweed's secretary Scott contacted me to give me the news that Evelyn Tweed had submitted the Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed collection for a parliamentary motion. I was told that the parliamentary motion would remain on the record permanently, and MSPs would be able to continue to support the motion. Scott explained that they are used to raise awareness of important successes in constituencies. I've attached an image of the written piece.

I was very surprised! I was also extremely humbled, very grateful, and felt privileged to receive this. Evelyn Tweed had met with me earlier in 2022, and her and Scott showed exceptional genuine feeling and compassion to the whole story and context of Portraits and Tales.

Scott, Evelyn's PA then travelled to support the opening of the Ninewells Exhibition, (which wouldn't have happened without the kindness and hard work of Ninewells' Pete Simpson and the Tayside Health and Arts Trust). At the time of receiving this news, I had a lot of things happening in my personal life, so didn't manage to share the news, but I will never forget the timing of such a lovely email. It was a huge cheer.

I want to thank Evelyn and Scott, for all their ongoing support, and especially for recognising the self-sacrificial NHS and the vital need to raise awareness of ovarian cancer.

Thank you. 🩷

#thankyounhs #thankyounhsstaff #portraitsandtalesfromahospitalbed #scottishparliament #ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness #cancerrecovery

✨️✨️The Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed collection has received a parliamentary motion!✨️✨️

Thank you so much!
@evelyntweed_snp

A little while ago, SNP MSP Evelyn Tweed's secretary Scott contacted me to give me the news that Evelyn Tweed had submitted the Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed collection for a parliamentary motion. I was told that the parliamentary motion would remain on the record permanently, and MSPs would be able to continue to support the motion. Scott explained that they are used to raise awareness of important successes in constituencies. I've attached an image of the written piece.

I was very surprised! I was also extremely humbled, very grateful, and felt privileged to receive this. Evelyn Tweed had met with me earlier in 2022, and her and Scott showed exceptional genuine feeling and compassion to the whole story and context of Portraits and Tales.

Scott, Evelyn's PA then travelled to support the opening of the Ninewells Exhibition, (which wouldn't have happened without the kindness and hard work of Ninewells' Pete Simpson and the Tayside Health and Arts Trust). At the time of receiving this news, I had a lot of things happening in my personal life, so didn't manage to share the news, but I will never forget the timing of such a lovely email. It was a huge cheer.

I want to thank Evelyn and Scott, for all their ongoing support, and especially for recognising the self-sacrificial NHS and the vital need to raise awareness of ovarian cancer.

Thank you. 🩷

#thankyounhs #thankyounhsstaff #portraitsandtalesfromahospitalbed #scottishparliament #ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness #cancerrecovery

***Last in this series of Portrait and Tales from a Hospital Bed.....(more to come in the future), after I finish more work on my @beatsoncharity landscape commission***.......

'The Health Support Worker with the Bright Pink Shoes'
Watercolour, ink, soft pastel
Swipe to see progress shots

This portrait is the last (for now) in the series I've shared so far, and she has waited patiently for two years (!) for me to complete her portrait. In June 2022, I ended up in Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, with a flare-up of ongoing bowel issues post cancer treatment. It was in this stay I met Gillian, this HSW. I remember lying in my hospital bed and catching a glimpse of a very personable lady serving teas down the corridor, and it was her cheery, bright pink shoes that caught my eye. I have always loved colour, I'm fascinated by it and its effects on people. In this moment, I noticed that looking at these bright pink shoes in the hospital context, I felt uplifted.
The uplifting effect continued as minutes later, Gillian was at my door offering teas and biscuits, her eyes twinkling and a broad smile on her face. Her friendly, cheerful personality was observed every time she swept through the corridor, serving teas with a beaming smile. Perhaps she wouldn't know quite how much these uplifting moments mean to us, the patients, when we're lying there going through tests, scans, awaiting results, and buried in stressful situations in that time of our lives. A brush of bright pink glimmered through the hospital bays, and Gillian clearly loves and is very talented at her role in Ninewells Hospital. Thank you, Gillian and to all Health Support Workers for all you do for our #NHS.

#watercolourportrait #watercolourpainting #paintingpeople #portraitartist #figurativeartist #ournhs #ournhspeople #thankyounhs #thankyounhsstaff

***Last in this series of Portrait and Tales from a Hospital Bed.....(more to come in the future), after I finish more work on my @beatsoncharity landscape commission***.......

'The Health Support Worker with the Bright Pink Shoes'
Watercolour, ink, soft pastel
Swipe to see progress shots

This portrait is the last (for now) in the series I've shared so far, and she has waited patiently for two years (!) for me to complete her portrait. In June 2022, I ended up in Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, with a flare-up of ongoing bowel issues post cancer treatment. It was in this stay I met Gillian, this HSW. I remember lying in my hospital bed and catching a glimpse of a very personable lady serving teas down the corridor, and it was her cheery, bright pink shoes that caught my eye. I have always loved colour, I'm fascinated by it and its effects on people. In this moment, I noticed that looking at these bright pink shoes in the hospital context, I felt uplifted.
The uplifting effect continued as minutes later, Gillian was at my door offering teas and biscuits, her eyes twinkling and a broad smile on her face. Her friendly, cheerful personality was observed every time she swept through the corridor, serving teas with a beaming smile. Perhaps she wouldn't know quite how much these uplifting moments mean to us, the patients, when we're lying there going through tests, scans, awaiting results, and buried in stressful situations in that time of our lives. A brush of bright pink glimmered through the hospital bays, and Gillian clearly loves and is very talented at her role in Ninewells Hospital. Thank you, Gillian and to all Health Support Workers for all you do for our #NHS.

#watercolourportrait #watercolourpainting #paintingpeople #portraitartist #figurativeartist #ournhs #ournhspeople #thankyounhs #thankyounhsstaff

'For Nicola'
Watercolour on paper
Swipe for poem (or read below)
(Painting shared with permission)

'For Nicola'

Each green leaf softly tinged and shimmerimg gold
Gradually one by one, Autumn lights each tree aflame
As days meander on, its timely poetry unfolds,
The gentleness - I paused
I stopped.
It reminds me of you.

The wind whips leaves: green, amber and red
Which flutter, they sing in the wings of the wind;
I paused,I stopped.
They remind me of you.
A gentle life, of love, laughter and song

This morning I awoke, eyes blinked back the tears,
Heartache pushed down to carry on through each year
Today freed like a bird and apparent to see,
I lay out the memories, and I play your songs

Let their balm soothe my soul
Wrap my heart in whispers of love,
We treasure your life so much; a gift to us all
And up there you rest, in arms of peace, love and light

I reminisce; right back in school's reception, way back when;
An unlikely place to find such a treasured best friend,
You regaled with a twinkle in your sparkly eyes,
Your love for music, worship songs and gardening - what a surpise

And I remember, our laughter resounds, it lit up that hour
Our friendship young in years yet was cast in gold,
A precious one we didn't know would carry burdens untold
Messages, voice notes, yes, phone calls galore
Between softly knocking at each other's door

Cancer came uninvited, and we stood side by side,
Walked unknown paths of sunshine 'n thorns, trying to take it in our stride,
Onwards and upwards we paddled, we together trod on,
Faithfully seeing each other through those long days and nights

Let the memories unfold, just to rightly tell
Of your thoughtfulness and kindness, and
your arms which tightly held
Each loved one, friends, your children,
and you, our special friend
enriched our lives immeasurably, a love that never ends.

So how can it be...my heart tries to tell my mind
Of the ache since you left earth, one more time,
But the answer just returns, again and again:
‘No, it can't be real,’ the mind responds, and it shuts down the pain

The broken world we live in means although no longer here
You are alive in heaven; your memory
(cont. in comments)

'For Nicola'
Watercolour on paper
Swipe for poem (or read below)
(Painting shared with permission)

'For Nicola'

Each green leaf softly tinged and shimmerimg gold
Gradually one by one, Autumn lights each tree aflame
As days meander on, its timely poetry unfolds,
The gentleness - I paused
I stopped.
It reminds me of you.

The wind whips leaves: green, amber and red
Which flutter, they sing in the wings of the wind;
I paused,I stopped.
They remind me of you.
A gentle life, of love, laughter and song

This morning I awoke, eyes blinked back the tears,
Heartache pushed down to carry on through each year
Today freed like a bird and apparent to see,
I lay out the memories, and I play your songs

Let their balm soothe my soul
Wrap my heart in whispers of love,
We treasure your life so much; a gift to us all
And up there you rest, in arms of peace, love and light

I reminisce; right back in school's reception, way back when;
An unlikely place to find such a treasured best friend,
You regaled with a twinkle in your sparkly eyes,
Your love for music, worship songs and gardening - what a surpise

And I remember, our laughter resounds, it lit up that hour
Our friendship young in years yet was cast in gold,
A precious one we didn't know would carry burdens untold
Messages, voice notes, yes, phone calls galore
Between softly knocking at each other's door

Cancer came uninvited, and we stood side by side,
Walked unknown paths of sunshine 'n thorns, trying to take it in our stride,
Onwards and upwards we paddled, we together trod on,
Faithfully seeing each other through those long days and nights

Let the memories unfold, just to rightly tell
Of your thoughtfulness and kindness, and
your arms which tightly held
Each loved one, friends, your children,
and you, our special friend
enriched our lives immeasurably, a love that never ends.

So how can it be...my heart tries to tell my mind
Of the ache since you left earth, one more time,
But the answer just returns, again and again:
‘No, it can't be real,’ the mind responds, and it shuts down the pain

The broken world we live in means although no longer here
You are alive in heaven; your memory
(cont. in comments)

**Some brilliant news!**

It was in Autumn three years ago that team @gillyartist ran in the @crukraceforlife life, and together with supporters we raised an astonishing £7193.50 (plus £1434.13 gift aid)!! The other day I came across this again and didn't manage to share it at the time, as 'life' took over. Thank you so much to everyone who supported, ran, cheered us on, sent support and donated. I love looking back at the races and all my lovely pupils, family and friends who came. Even Dorin (my bowel consultant) and her bowel surgeon friend came to support! Forever grateful for everyone who came.

I am an ambassador for @cr_uk and for @ovariancanceraction, and today, I read brilliant news: at Oxford University they have developed a vaccine which is in early stages, that they hope will prevent and even eradicate ovarian cancer!! This is incredible. This is with initial support and funding from @ovariancanceraction and then £650k from @cr_uk I am delighted Cancer Research have put this money towards ovarian cancer. I was invited to speak at the @cr_uk Scottish conference at the end of 2022, and the speech can be watched in my reels.

Of course, this vaccine is too late for those of us who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. But I'm delighted to hear others will be spared the disease; I wouldn't wish it or it's impact (it touches every single area of your life), on anyone. This is why I campaign and raise awareness. On this day, I ran for my amazing, brave friend, Teresa Lafferty, who passed away in February 2020.

Thank you to the scientists, @ovariancanceraction, @cr_uk, @crukraceforlife and everyone who supported our race too.

🩷

#ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness #cancerawareness #cruk #ovariancanceraction #cancer @lisaadamswrites

**Some brilliant news!**

It was in Autumn three years ago that team @gillyartist ran in the @crukraceforlife life, and together with supporters we raised an astonishing £7193.50 (plus £1434.13 gift aid)!! The other day I came across this again and didn't manage to share it at the time, as 'life' took over. Thank you so much to everyone who supported, ran, cheered us on, sent support and donated. I love looking back at the races and all my lovely pupils, family and friends who came. Even Dorin (my bowel consultant) and her bowel surgeon friend came to support! Forever grateful for everyone who came.

I am an ambassador for @cr_uk and for @ovariancanceraction, and today, I read brilliant news: at Oxford University they have developed a vaccine which is in early stages, that they hope will prevent and even eradicate ovarian cancer!! This is incredible. This is with initial support and funding from @ovariancanceraction and then £650k from @cr_uk I am delighted Cancer Research have put this money towards ovarian cancer. I was invited to speak at the @cr_uk Scottish conference at the end of 2022, and the speech can be watched in my reels.

Of course, this vaccine is too late for those of us who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. But I'm delighted to hear others will be spared the disease; I wouldn't wish it or it's impact (it touches every single area of your life), on anyone. This is why I campaign and raise awareness. On this day, I ran for my amazing, brave friend, Teresa Lafferty, who passed away in February 2020.

Thank you to the scientists, @ovariancanceraction, @cr_uk, @crukraceforlife and everyone who supported our race too.

🩷

#ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness #cancerawareness #cruk #ovariancanceraction #cancer @lisaadamswrites

Broken hearts, heartache, interruptions: the journey (Part 2/2) (continued)
They got to work quickly, I was hooked up to the ECG machine and bloods taken.
I read the ECG: abnormal.
I continued to deep breathe and focus on keeping my body calm as my chest pain worsened. The amazing emergency doctor, Dr Price, arranged a CT within a few hours.
Dr Price accompanied me to my ECG, a compassionate, caring, and outstanding doctor, who I immediately trusted. I told him the headlines: my misdiagnosis leading to an advanced ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2020 when I diagnosed myself, lost my fertility, and the psychological and physical rollercoaster of a recovery pathway to date. He looked visibly moved, which moved me. Due to a previous reaction to the contrast CT dye in May, he stood behind me as I was pushed into the CT scanner. It felt more claustrophobic than usual, and the dye tightened my chest further. I kept breathing, kept praying, and felt an indescribable, supernatural peace come over me. I knew Dr Price was right there, too.
He told me with relief back in the emergency room within half an hour that there was no clot in my lung or artery; and if there had been, I would've had to have emergency surgical intervention. I stayed the night, and they continued their investigations the next day. The following morning,a consultant cardiologist walked into my room, who I later learned was the acclaimed, outstanding Dr Hargreaves. His care, thorough investigation, and brilliant problem solving reassured me as I underwent the lined up battery of tests. More abnormal ECGs. I was told by Dr H:
‘I've looked at all your ECGs, and since 2020, (diagnosis year), your heart just isn't working quite as well’…
‘There is a slight anomaly’.
I've reflected on this a little in quieter hours since.
I was told I had pericarditis, inflammation around the heart. I pleaded to be let out for my brother's 40th birthday family meal evening for a few hours, and was allowed on the condition I return immediately if my heart started playing up again. My trip to Rome with my sister and baby niece this week, (brother in law's work conference), was cancelled....
(cont. in comments)

Broken hearts, heartache, interruptions: the journey (Part 2/2) (continued)
They got to work quickly, I was hooked up to the ECG machine and bloods taken.
I read the ECG: abnormal.
I continued to deep breathe and focus on keeping my body calm as my chest pain worsened. The amazing emergency doctor, Dr Price, arranged a CT within a few hours.
Dr Price accompanied me to my ECG, a compassionate, caring, and outstanding doctor, who I immediately trusted. I told him the headlines: my misdiagnosis leading to an advanced ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2020 when I diagnosed myself, lost my fertility, and the psychological and physical rollercoaster of a recovery pathway to date. He looked visibly moved, which moved me. Due to a previous reaction to the contrast CT dye in May, he stood behind me as I was pushed into the CT scanner. It felt more claustrophobic than usual, and the dye tightened my chest further. I kept breathing, kept praying, and felt an indescribable, supernatural peace come over me. I knew Dr Price was right there, too.
He told me with relief back in the emergency room within half an hour that there was no clot in my lung or artery; and if there had been, I would've had to have emergency surgical intervention. I stayed the night, and they continued their investigations the next day. The following morning,a consultant cardiologist walked into my room, who I later learned was the acclaimed, outstanding Dr Hargreaves. His care, thorough investigation, and brilliant problem solving reassured me as I underwent the lined up battery of tests. More abnormal ECGs. I was told by Dr H:
‘I've looked at all your ECGs, and since 2020, (diagnosis year), your heart just isn't working quite as well’…
‘There is a slight anomaly’.
I've reflected on this a little in quieter hours since.
I was told I had pericarditis, inflammation around the heart. I pleaded to be let out for my brother's 40th birthday family meal evening for a few hours, and was allowed on the condition I return immediately if my heart started playing up again. My trip to Rome with my sister and baby niece this week, (brother in law's work conference), was cancelled....
(cont. in comments)

**Broken hearts, heartache, interruptions: the journey (Part 1/2)**

This past week, I had an unexpected interruption. A recent virus, followed by pleurisy, led to strange symptoms that warranted investigation: breathlessness, chest pain, and coughing. It felt like having a long, slow heart attack for a few weeks. As always, my brilliant oncologist was straight on the case, seeing me last Wednesday. Last Thursday 12th September, I got up and got dressed to go into town briefly. For some reason, I had a strong sense to wear comfy clothes, like leggings and warm socks, instead of picking my jeans in front of me. I then had a strong sense to pack my phone charger, which I did, without understanding why. I felt gently led but can't explain it more than that. The day before, I'd passed a billboard on the way to The Beatson Cancer Centre @beatsoncharity that said: ‘You are Not Alone’. In town, I walked past a jumper in @marksandspencer that said in punchy lettering, ‘You are Not Alone.’ I didn't feel well, but felt peaceful. Just as I was finishing, I got a sense to get something to eat before returning to my car, despite the fact I was about to drive home, which didn't really make sense. In the queue for my decaf coffee, my lovely oncologist nurse rang; she told me gently my bloods for clots taken yesterday was raised, and to go to the emergency room at the hospital as soon as I could. I ate my food; now the peace was battled by increasing pressing symptoms and a sense of rising anxiety, which I refuted best I could. I got up and, like the song says, put one foot in front of another, one step at a time. In the past 24 hours my voice had slowly gone hoarse, my chest had crushing pain, I had constant palpitations coming and going, and a persistent cough. I got in my car, put my music on, and prayed. As I drove, I continued to feel held up, supported. I was stopped behind an ambulance for a primary school emptying out across a pedestrian crossing; I was stuck and had no idea how to get past, as I ironically wasn't in the ambulance myself. Arriving in the emergency room, I flopped into a chair telling the nurse, I'm here with a suspected clot..(cont. next post)

**Broken hearts, heartache, interruptions: the journey (Part 1/2)**

This past week, I had an unexpected interruption. A recent virus, followed by pleurisy, led to strange symptoms that warranted investigation: breathlessness, chest pain, and coughing. It felt like having a long, slow heart attack for a few weeks. As always, my brilliant oncologist was straight on the case, seeing me last Wednesday. Last Thursday 12th September, I got up and got dressed to go into town briefly. For some reason, I had a strong sense to wear comfy clothes, like leggings and warm socks, instead of picking my jeans in front of me. I then had a strong sense to pack my phone charger, which I did, without understanding why. I felt gently led but can't explain it more than that. The day before, I'd passed a billboard on the way to The Beatson Cancer Centre @beatsoncharity that said: ‘You are Not Alone’. In town, I walked past a jumper in @marksandspencer that said in punchy lettering, ‘You are Not Alone.’ I didn't feel well, but felt peaceful. Just as I was finishing, I got a sense to get something to eat before returning to my car, despite the fact I was about to drive home, which didn't really make sense. In the queue for my decaf coffee, my lovely oncologist nurse rang; she told me gently my bloods for clots taken yesterday was raised, and to go to the emergency room at the hospital as soon as I could. I ate my food; now the peace was battled by increasing pressing symptoms and a sense of rising anxiety, which I refuted best I could. I got up and, like the song says, put one foot in front of another, one step at a time. In the past 24 hours my voice had slowly gone hoarse, my chest had crushing pain, I had constant palpitations coming and going, and a persistent cough. I got in my car, put my music on, and prayed. As I drove, I continued to feel held up, supported. I was stopped behind an ambulance for a primary school emptying out across a pedestrian crossing; I was stuck and had no idea how to get past, as I ironically wasn't in the ambulance myself. Arriving in the emergency room, I flopped into a chair telling the nurse, I'm here with a suspected clot..(cont. next post)

*** Part Two: @thecourier.uk article ***

See previous post for first part of the story.

A few weeks ago, a journalist from The Courier UK contacted me to ask if they could write about my journey with ovarian cancer to date. This article shares more recent developments and the hope that is to be found between the harder moments post diagnosis. I hope it can raise awareness, ensure others get diagnosed at an earlier stage, save lives, and help others going through a similar journey.

Thank you so much to @thecourier.uk journalist Debbie Clarke for taking the time to write the story so sensitively and accurately. Thank you too to @eveconroyphoto
who is incredibly gifted at photography, and so lovely to work with! She made the shoot so relaxed and enjoyable. I'll share more behind the scenes of her photo shoot on my stories soon.

#ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness #cancerawareness #cancerdiagnosis #cancerresearchuk #cancerinyour30s

*** Part Two: @thecourier.uk article ***

See previous post for first part of the story.

A few weeks ago, a journalist from The Courier UK contacted me to ask if they could write about my journey with ovarian cancer to date. This article shares more recent developments and the hope that is to be found between the harder moments post diagnosis. I hope it can raise awareness, ensure others get diagnosed at an earlier stage, save lives, and help others going through a similar journey.

Thank you so much to @thecourier.uk journalist Debbie Clarke for taking the time to write the story so sensitively and accurately. Thank you too to @eveconroyphoto
who is incredibly gifted at photography, and so lovely to work with! She made the shoot so relaxed and enjoyable. I'll share more behind the scenes of her photo shoot on my stories soon.

#ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness #cancerawareness #cancerdiagnosis #cancerresearchuk #cancerinyour30s

A few weeks ago, a journalist from The Courier UK contacted me to ask if they could write about my journey with ovarian cancer to date. This article shares more recent developments and the hope that is to be found between the harder moments post diagnosis. I hope it can raise awareness, ensure others get diagnosed at an earlier stage, save lives, and help others going through a similar journey.

Thank you so much to @thecourier.uk journalist Debbie Clarke for taking the time to write the story so sensitively and accurately. Thank you too to @eveconroyphoto
who is incredibly gifted at photography, and so lovely to work with! She made the shoot so relaxed and enjoyable. I'll share more behind the scenes of her photo shoot on my stories soon.

(This is post one, I'll share post two also, which finishes the story).

#ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness #cancerawareness #cancerdiagnosis #cancerresearchuk #cancerinyour30s

A few weeks ago, a journalist from The Courier UK contacted me to ask if they could write about my journey with ovarian cancer to date. This article shares more recent developments and the hope that is to be found between the harder moments post diagnosis. I hope it can raise awareness, ensure others get diagnosed at an earlier stage, save lives, and help others going through a similar journey.

Thank you so much to @thecourier.uk journalist Debbie Clarke for taking the time to write the story so sensitively and accurately. Thank you too to @eveconroyphoto
who is incredibly gifted at photography, and so lovely to work with! She made the shoot so relaxed and enjoyable. I'll share more behind the scenes of her photo shoot on my stories soon.

(This is post one, I'll share post two also, which finishes the story).

#ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness #cancerawareness #cancerdiagnosis #cancerresearchuk #cancerinyour30s

Hi everyone 🖐 It's been a while! Thanks for sticking around.

An update: the good news is my recent scan in June was clear! 🙏 So thankful for this.

I didn't really plan it, but ended up having a pause from this account, as last Autumn and Winter were exceptionally hard. I started new medication in the summer for ongoing bowel related issues post diagnosis, and this drug took months to settle.
I had to find new pieces of work following my job ending.

******

I lost one of my closest friends to cancer in the Autumn, an irreplaceable gem to all who knew her. 💔 I'm still processing it, and still haven't found the words. We walked through life together, and she will always be carried in my heart. We were also diagnosed two months apart, so walked this journey together too. She gave me one of her bags (amongst many other thoughtful gifts), which I carry around with me, a little piece of her. 💔 She was a gentle, beautiful friend and will never or could never be forgotten.

******

Through the Autumn and Winter a lot of processing of other life stuff caught up with me too, and hit hard. The pain of so many things seemed to overwhelm. Hope seemed a distant glimmer too far away. I took a day, or sometimes an hour at a time. I clung to the mast in the storm until I saw it through, like we have to do at times.

I'm so glad those days are over, and that's a distant memory now. I have one more portrait to share with you from Portaits and Tales from a Hospital Bed, before sharing a new exciting project I've been working on! It's a commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital in Glasgow. @beatsoncharity

Thanks again for sticking around.
Speak soon 😊
Gilly

P.s Photo of my paint trolley for working on my recent large painting ( Beatson commission) Since I sorted these paints, I managed to buy some new @mhpaints and a few other brands to try, which I love! All from my staple art supplies shop: @jacksons_art I also bought @rosemarybrushes brushes which are beautiful to use. I now use my older paints to tint the under painting.

Hi everyone 🖐 It's been a while! Thanks for sticking around.

An update: the good news is my recent scan in June was clear! 🙏 So thankful for this.

I didn't really plan it, but ended up having a pause from this account, as last Autumn and Winter were exceptionally hard. I started new medication in the summer for ongoing bowel related issues post diagnosis, and this drug took months to settle.
I had to find new pieces of work following my job ending.

******

I lost one of my closest friends to cancer in the Autumn, an irreplaceable gem to all who knew her. 💔 I'm still processing it, and still haven't found the words. We walked through life together, and she will always be carried in my heart. We were also diagnosed two months apart, so walked this journey together too. She gave me one of her bags (amongst many other thoughtful gifts), which I carry around with me, a little piece of her. 💔 She was a gentle, beautiful friend and will never or could never be forgotten.

******

Through the Autumn and Winter a lot of processing of other life stuff caught up with me too, and hit hard. The pain of so many things seemed to overwhelm. Hope seemed a distant glimmer too far away. I took a day, or sometimes an hour at a time. I clung to the mast in the storm until I saw it through, like we have to do at times.

I'm so glad those days are over, and that's a distant memory now. I have one more portrait to share with you from Portaits and Tales from a Hospital Bed, before sharing a new exciting project I've been working on! It's a commission for The Beatson Cancer Hospital in Glasgow. @beatsoncharity

Thanks again for sticking around.
Speak soon 😊
Gilly

P.s Photo of my paint trolley for working on my recent large painting ( Beatson commission) Since I sorted these paints, I managed to buy some new @mhpaints and a few other brands to try, which I love! All from my staple art supplies shop: @jacksons_art I also bought @rosemarybrushes brushes which are beautiful to use. I now use my older paints to tint the under painting.

*Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed exhibition, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee*

The exhibition of the Ninewells Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed has been running for nine months now. I was reflecting back to the opening night and realised I didn't share these photos at the time, with the flurry of the festive season.

The exhibition is to reside permanently in Ninewells Hospital and I have really enjoyed hearing feedback and seeing people view the work. I love that it shares the NHS staff's compassion and kindness, from personal encounters, with a wider audience. The exhibition is featured on level 7 in the main corridor.

I am ever so grateful to Pete and Frances Simpson, whose support and hard work allowed this to happen. They organised the logistics and hanging of the exhibition, which I think they did beautifully. Also, I am very grateful to Tayside Health Arts Trust who funded the exhibition and believed in the project from the outset.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who supported me doing this, and to all those who could make the opening too. It was a highlight of the winter.

#artexhibitions #artistexhibition #portaitsandtalesfromahospitalbed #paintingexhibition #portraitartists #paintingpeople #scottishartist

*Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed exhibition, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee*

The exhibition of the Ninewells Portraits and Tales from a Hospital Bed has been running for nine months now. I was reflecting back to the opening night and realised I didn't share these photos at the time, with the flurry of the festive season.

The exhibition is to reside permanently in Ninewells Hospital and I have really enjoyed hearing feedback and seeing people view the work. I love that it shares the NHS staff's compassion and kindness, from personal encounters, with a wider audience. The exhibition is featured on level 7 in the main corridor.

I am ever so grateful to Pete and Frances Simpson, whose support and hard work allowed this to happen. They organised the logistics and hanging of the exhibition, which I think they did beautifully. Also, I am very grateful to Tayside Health Arts Trust who funded the exhibition and believed in the project from the outset.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who supported me doing this, and to all those who could make the opening too. It was a highlight of the winter.

#artexhibitions #artistexhibition #portaitsandtalesfromahospitalbed #paintingexhibition #portraitartists #paintingpeople #scottishartist

'Hope' (Swipe to see all angles)
Acrylic painted sculpture commission for North East Scotland 'Big Hop' sculpture trail.

The hare is named 'Hope' (with thanks to my nephew and niece for the inspiration). My painted sculpture is on exhibition in Aberdeen Art Gallery throughout the summer. It took approximately 250 hours to paint this past Spring.

Context: After speaking at the CRUK Scottish conference, Clan Cancer Charity in Aberdeen approached me to ask if I would be interested in being commissioned to paint a hare as part of The Big Hop, the North Scotland public sculpture trail, exhibited this summer. The hares are exhibited throughout North Scotland and will be auctioned off in September, raising money for Clan Cancer charity who support families facing cancer. The trail is one of Wild in Art's public art trails renowned to feature over Britain.

Plaque content in Aberdeen Art Gallery:

Hope's clothes are inspired by favourite Little Grey Rabbit and Brambly Hedge stories.
Her voice is for women who have experienced loss in any form, such as a child, fertility loss, or hopes of children. Often such deep pain is silenced, the empty hole they carry inside, hidden beneath a smile.
The open envelope (on Hope's foot) represents Hope's letter to the world as life builds up around grief. The roses rise up to her heart, representing this loss held in its core. Yet 'Hope' reminds us that emotional pain can be channelled into something beautiful. (Isaiah 61:3).

#harepainting #thebighoptrail #arttrail #wildinart #artistsoninstagram #bramblyhedge #paintinganimals

'Hope' (Swipe to see all angles)
Acrylic painted sculpture commission for North East Scotland 'Big Hop' sculpture trail.

The hare is named 'Hope' (with thanks to my nephew and niece for the inspiration). My painted sculpture is on exhibition in Aberdeen Art Gallery throughout the summer. It took approximately 250 hours to paint this past Spring.

Context: After speaking at the CRUK Scottish conference, Clan Cancer Charity in Aberdeen approached me to ask if I would be interested in being commissioned to paint a hare as part of The Big Hop, the North Scotland public sculpture trail, exhibited this summer. The hares are exhibited throughout North Scotland and will be auctioned off in September, raising money for Clan Cancer charity who support families facing cancer. The trail is one of Wild in Art's public art trails renowned to feature over Britain.

Plaque content in Aberdeen Art Gallery:

Hope's clothes are inspired by favourite Little Grey Rabbit and Brambly Hedge stories.
Her voice is for women who have experienced loss in any form, such as a child, fertility loss, or hopes of children. Often such deep pain is silenced, the empty hole they carry inside, hidden beneath a smile.
The open envelope (on Hope's foot) represents Hope's letter to the world as life builds up around grief. The roses rise up to her heart, representing this loss held in its core. Yet 'Hope' reminds us that emotional pain can be channelled into something beautiful. (Isaiah 61:3).

#harepainting #thebighoptrail #arttrail #wildinart #artistsoninstagram #bramblyhedge #paintinganimals

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