Summer Studio
August News & Highlights
This summer brought an unexpected turn with a personal family matter that’s shifted the usual rhythm. It’s slowed the usual tempo in the studio somewhat, but it’s also given me space to reflect. In this post, I’d like to share a bit about how that’s influenced my work, and the beauty that can emerge during life’s more challenging moments.
In The Studio
I was taken a back watching the unexpected butterfly emerge amongst the early brushstrokes of this painting - knowing who it was for.
It’s for Sue - my mother-in-law.
We almost lost her recently.
Nine hours of spinal surgery, followed by another gruelling three hours removing an unexpected blood clot.
It was a tough night. The morning brought bittersweet news: she survived the surgery but faced an overwhelming mountain ahead.
“She'll need to learn to walk again, and won't be coming home any time soon.”
To process the swirl of emotions, I picked up my brush and began to paint.
And that’s when it hit me.
I’ve always called my paintings ‘unwritten melodies’—invitations to step into more beauty and light; a song to fill the ‘to-be-written’ chapters of your story.
Seeing Sue in this time has given it a renewed meaning…
What if this painting was just for her? To sit in her rehab room, like a faithful companion, with the subtle butterfly—symbolic and special to our family —singing gently and quite literally into her next steps, reminding her of hope and transformation that lies in wait.
Sometimes, we find ourselves caught in between—no longer where we were, but not yet where we’re going.
We’ve all been there. Transitions can leave us navigating that uncertain space ‘in the middle’. In these moments, we need gentle reminders of what’s still ours—peace, hope, joy, love.
What reminds you of the beauty within your story?
New Prints!
After some time since my last print release, I'm thrilled to introduce two new limited edition fine art prints – ‘Windswept Love 7 & 8’ — arriving soon! These pieces are especially meaningful to me and have quickly become favourites in my collection. The originals recently found new homes, so I’m pleased to offer you a chance to own them in a beautiful print format.
Artletter subscribers will be receiving exclusive early access along with a special bonuses reserved just for them! Sign up here👇
New Scottish Commission
Ready for its new home
“Just received the painting and it’s amazing! It’s everything I wished and hoped it would be. At the moment it’s sitting on the sofa in my lounge and I feel I’m there- there’s a lot of happy memories that come with this painting. Once I get it framed it will take pride of place in my Scottish dining room.”
Previously In The Studio
ABOUT RACHEL