On the wall of the dining room was a print of Van Gogh’s Cypresses, opposite my seat at 11 years old on my first day at Thetford Grammar School for Girls. I was transfixed. The powerful brush strokes and sense of movement and colour evoked a powerful response in me. My art teacher Beryl Handley at the head of the table noticed my reaction.

Over the following five years, this gifted teacher tutored and encouraged me with introduction to many art disciplines recommending that I go to Art School; but there was no funding available.

At nineteen years old, working in London, frequent visits to The National Gallery and exhibitions brought familiarity with a wide variety of artistic expression. I discovered that I am a synesthete, feeling physical reaction to colour.

The Art World recognises the seminal lasting influence of Van Gogh on painting. Edward Munch believed himself to be like Van Gogh hoping he could continue to strive and show such passion.

Many years later, a former school friend gifted me a ring which Beryl had given her saying “She would have wanted you to have it”. Putting on the ring, I felt a frisson, immediately impelled to take up art seriously again. After many work shops, courses exhibitions and a Diploma in Oils, I am now a professional artist wanting share the joy I feel in representing what I see.

Thank you Beryl. I hope your pupil has pleased you.