I originally trained as a technical illustrator, focussing on natural history and medical illustration, before working in publishing for several years, illustrating many books and working with a diverse variety of publishers.
I also developed graphic design skills including typography and typesetting. My own illustrations were used on several book covers.
I work in the world of printmaking as a hand colourist; working on prints by a number of contemporary artists.
In 2005, I completed an MA in Illustration at Central St Martins, while continuing working on both my illustration and painting. I have always found that the two disciplines feed and complement each other. My training in illustration has taught me to observe detail.
My painting style, while both detailed and realistic, always endeavours to add an element of disquiet, a ‘talking point’, to elevate the piece to an engaging, human portrait.
I have exhibited my work in the Sunday Times Watercolour Exhibition.
The knowledge, understanding and skills I have developed, in a wide variety of disciplines, over many years, inform and influence my work now. Allowing me to call on that variety and diversity of techniques and media with a high level of professionalism.
In recent years I have been concentrating on portraits, undertaking many commissions. I also take commissions of dog and pet portraits. I work in the following media: watercolour, oil, acrylic, line work, pencil and charcoal drawing.

Lou Andreas-Salomé
Watercolour & charcoal on paper, 80 x 110 cm