About our Resident Artists - Leila Godden

It was always a dream to go to Art College, but somehow life got in the way for many years. After a Business Studies degree and too many years working in finance, I knew I needed an outlet for my creativity, so enrolled on an evening class to take an A level in Art & Design. The dream became reality and I spent two years at Herefordshire College of Art and Design, completing a part time Art Foundation course. Regular trips to The St Ives School of Painting have also been a huge source of inspiration and tuition for me, and I started selling my paintings through galleries in 2000.As well as mixed exhibitions I have had several solo shows, and my paintings are enjoyed in France, Italy and Israel, as well as the UK. As well as painting, I am an Aromatherapist and Life Coach. My aim is to produce paintings which capture the essence of a subject but allow a personal response and express more than just the visual qualities.Texture is important in building up an exciting image which allows interplay between the source inspiration and the materials themselves. I may include fabric, sand, and textured mediums to add depth and visual impact.

I use acrylic paint, and thoroughly enjoy the versatility of this fabulous medium, which allows enormous scope to include mixed media, and achieve...Read more