What advice would you give someone starting from square one?

My advice would be to follow through with instincts and desires and not question or rationalise too much, because this kills the thing before it happens. Our subconscious self knows how to lead the way, but we can block it, trying to understand what will only become clearer later.  My other advice would be to keep things moving. As soon as one thing is completed, kick off with another. This is the only way to keep growing and expanding one’s practice.

In what ways did growing up surrounded by female artists enrich the way you see the world?

It was lovely, in that it was normal and a given for people to paint and draw. Different family members had their thing or their ‘voice’. In any profession we all try to find our voice and it’s always helpful to have examples and role models. It was interesting when I got to art college how many other students had parents in the arts or creative industries. However, inevitably, each generation has new challenges and must work things out for themselves. 

Is there a moment that didn’t feel significant at the time, but in hindsight was pivotal to your career?  

I was so happy to get into the post graduate ‘Drawing Year’ at the Royal Drawing School, but I don’t think I could have known how pivotal it would be.  The discipline and volume of work I created there was a huge influence on how I ended up continuing to make work and sell work, rather than getting any other type of job. 

And a setback that turned out to be a redirection?

There have been various times over the years where I have applied for full time in house jobs that I didn’t get. In hindsight these jobs would have been a total misdirection from the way that I run and operate my own studio and I’m so glad nobody has ever wanted to employ me in that kind of way!

Your home feels deeply personal, is there an object that brings you the most joy or comfort?

My home is filled with objects that fill me up on a daily basis. I have hand painted mugs that give me enormous pleasure to drink morning coffee out of. I have a Pakistani ralli quilt, bought from Jess Maybury, that lives on my bed and I admire daily. And an arm chair that used to be in my grandmother's bedroom, newly reupholstered, that I love to sit in and read.

Who do you turn to for advice when you need an honest answer? 

I have different friends for different roles, but I always love to run things past my sisters. They are the best sounding boards. Then I have a couple of friends who are amazing with contracts, negotiation and business strategy. Emotional intelligence comes in so many guises.

What does “taking a leap” actually look like in your experience?

If you’re naturally cautious, it usually means enormous imposter syndrome. It’s only in retrospect that you realise what felt like a grind was you learning on your feet and that you managed to handle it all and rise to the challenge. 

What’s a lesson you had to learn more than once?

To back myself. 

When have you felt most certain that you're “on the right ladder”?

All along the way, there are little signposts that tell you things are working and it makes sense to continue. I think the feeling of certainty comes when suddenly you realise that it’s been a while since you questioned the path, and things are flowing both professionally and internally or creatively, in the mind and hands. The aim is to become a channel or conduit to some life force greater than yourself.

Is there a place you return to when you're in need of inspiration?

I am absolutely obsessed with the Gilbert collection at the V&A and I could not recommend it more highly to anyone. It’s these newly designed and curated rooms at the museum displaying tiny masterpieces in gold and silver, mosaic and enamel. The level of craftsmanship is mind bending.

Which song do you play to re-energise? 

Opportunities by The Pet Shop Boys!

If you were playing a second game, which career route could you have taken?

I really love fashion so maybe I would have enjoyed being an art director or a stylist.