I am based in Newcastle and I love to paint in watercolours. I was born in South Africa and my early drawings as a child were often mountains set with little round houses called rondavels, and thorn trees.  Later I painted fisherman’s cottages with thatched roofs and the cape dutch houses of the wine country around Cape Town.>>>

I remember paper being a precious commodity in our home and I must admit a few of my precious childhood books had a few artworks of my own added to their inside cover. Favourite children’s illustrated books include the Paddington Bear Picture books illustrated by Fred Banbury, May Gibbs’ Gumnut Babies, Margery Williams’ The Velveteen Rabbit, and of course Beatrix Potter.

Going to Old Bar Beach every October Long Weekend for ten years gave me a real appreciation for Volkswagen kombis and their infinite variations, and I enjoy being able to provide a sketch or painting to car lovers that they can really call their own. I began painting to sell art as a way of getting involved in my husband’s passion for cars while keeping the interest on my level – think vintage style, colour and accessories – rather than on a mechanical level which can remain his speciality!

I love it when people challenge me with something new that I haven’t tried before, and their pleasure in the final work has been so heartwarming. I am also very grateful when people return and have a second or third painting done. This to me is the best way I can Really Know that someone has liked my work!

I was much encouraged in the natural history illustration course through the University of Newcastle to learn that drawing can be improved through observation and attention to detail. As an accountant by day, I like to think that my drawing and painting helps me in my work and vice versa by honing my observation skills and practising patience through a long and difficult task.It is with much pleasure that I am now exploring the coast which I studied at school and university a lifetime ago. An abundance of wildlife awaits to be painted and I have a long list of animals and plants I’d like to paint and repaint at leisure.As I go about my weekend, I paint pet portraits, vintage cars, wildlife and also houses. My aim is to bring a little brightness into people’s lives by capturing the essence of something they love. Whether it is a homewares gift, a portrait in memory of a dear pet, or a car lover seeing their ever changing collection all in one place, I provide original artworks and prints made with care using the best quality paint and paper. Mobile: 0403 513 982Email: carol@carolallanwatercolours.comLinks: facebook.com/carol.allan.731https://www.instagram.com/steel_life_watercolours/