A friend of mine, approaching retirement and spending more time by the sea in his home in Greece, suddenly decided to paint. He bought an easel, some oil paints and canvas boards and just began. I was quite impressed and inspired by this. Painting to me had always seemed to be an arcane art, accessible only to the initiated few who had great natural talent and had spent years studying at prestigious art schools. My friend was really enjoying painting too, undaunted by his lack of experience, learning as he went along.

Inspiration can come too from looking at work by other artists. Over the years I have been constantly inspired by David Hockney, not only by his paintings but by reading his books. I love his explanations of the processes of making art.

I have always loved Matisse. Visiting a Matisse exhibition some years ago I was struck by his beautiful colours, so much more dramatic when seeing the actual paintings. 

I have just discovered the colourful, delicate landscapes of Nicholas Hely Hutchinson. Other recent inspiration has come from John Nash, Eric Ravillious and Peter Doig.