Juliette Dodd

I'm a figurative artist, specialising in Portraits, both painting and sculpture. I also teach portraiture, which I love, it's very satisfying to help others to express themselves and feel confident in their own abilities.Both my parents are painters, so it's in my blood. I spend alot of time drawing, especially people, and I have the ability to record accurate details very fast, I do alot of quick portrait sketches as demonstrations at functions & for Art groups.Originally I trained as a painter but found that this was only an illusion of reality, then I discovered Sculpture, creating something that was real, solid,& sensual. I recommend that everyone should have a go, it's very primordial and liberating!I sought out a Master to teach me the art of Stone carving, an 84 year old Italian named Mose Tamburrini (sadly, he passed away at 95, still carving). Stone is fantastic, very unforgiving and time consuming. It made me appreciate Michaelangelo more! I learnt woodcarving too, slightly easier to handle, sharper tools, great detail. For speed, I prefer clay, plaster or wax, all the modelling mediums, instant results and room for changes. I live by the sea, and have done all my life, except for a few years as a student, studying at the Sir Henry Doulton School of Sculpture in Stoke-on-Trent( patron Dame Elisabeth Frink). But I missed the sea so much,I moved back. You know where you are by the sea, no where else to go, the end of the land! I find it very inspirational. Since I was a child I always wished I was a mermaid (except I'm not a good swimmer!) pity I don't have the singing voice! I love life, I have so many plans and ideas, there just arn't enough hours in the day. I am (nearly)single with three beautiful daughters, all mini-mermaids. I also love gardening, very theraputic, like meditation with an outcome. It's wonderful to plan a colour scheme and a few months later I can sit back and enjoy the beauty and fragrance. I spent a few years creating an award winning magical Sensory garden at the local special school, for the children to enjoy. I love a laugh, meeting new friends, finding a bargain, visiting art galleries, making people happy,just enjoying life!