Caroline Shotton

"I have been painting for as long as I can remember. I lived on the outskirts of London which meant I benefited from being within easy reach of London galleries and open countryside, both of which were a source of immense inspiration to me. As an only child I had the freedom to immerse myself in my work, I also received a great deal of encouragement and guidance from my grandmother who raised me for which I am eternally grateful. Early influences came from the old masters. I was fascinated by their realism and throughout my school years I strived for perfection. When studying at Central Saint Martins my eyes were opened to new ideas and techniques. I was captivated both by surrealism and impressionism and much of my work now combines elements from these eras. After college I worked as a freelance artist in the commercial sector, undertaking bespoke commissions from businesses throughout the country, from large abstracts to intricate murals. I enjoyed this as every project was different and I was often asked to produce styles and subject matter I would never have dreamt of had I been alone in my studio. When my son was born I decided to concentrate on my gallery career. It has been lovely painting without a strict brief and my work has developed immeasurably, incorporating different aspects from my past commissions with the freedom to choose my own direction."