Between the 1st and 12th of October, ‘Wild Lines’ took shape within the light-filled gallery of Walford Mill in Wimborne, Dorset. The exhibition brought together a new body of work, celebrating British wildlife through a pen and ink lens. These intricate works showcase the beauty and character of those living alongside us, from the small and often overlooked to iconic characters of the British countryside.
The collection emerged from time spent wandering the Dorset countryside, where I’ve been fortunate to encounter a remarkable variety of wildlife. By lingering a little longer in their presence, the subtle quirks and quiet personalities of these animals begin to reveal themselves. Through each piece, I wanted to capture not only their form but their spirit, inviting others to rediscover their own connection to the living landscape we share. My hope is that this work inspires people to step outside, slow down and experience the wonders of nature for themselves.
“There’s something very calming about them. They’re peaceful, but full of character at the same time.”
While creating this collection, I found myself imagining small character arcs for each animal as I worked, allowing their individuality to guide my hand. Over years of practice I have refined a way of conveying texture through ink, whether I am capturing feathers, fur, scales or something in between. The process involves placing patterns carefully and intuitively, ensuring each mark sits exactly where it needs to be. It can require patience and a great deal of decision making. There are moments when the rhythm falters but when the flow returns it becomes a joy, and the creature seems to come quietly to life on the page.
Seeing the work displayed together was a joy, allowing the individual pieces to speak to one another in a way that isn’t always possible in my little studio. Each animal seemed to complement the next and I particularly enjoyed the works that included glimpses of the surrounding landscape. The gallery space itself played a gentle but important role. The black and white ink felt at home against its rustic textures and the setting of the old mill lent a quiet authenticity that echoes the natural world the collection draws from.
“The detail pulls you in, you want to stand here and look a little longer.”
Seeing how visitors interacted with the work was genuinely heartwarming. Many began by taking in the pieces from a distance, before naturally being drawn closer to explore the finer details. There was no single standout piece, instead each drawing seemed to resonate differently with each person, creating moments that felt personal and unique. I feel deeply proud of the collection and incredibly grateful to every person who took the time to visit.