I thought I'd use this first blog on my website to introduce myself and my work. Why it is I do what I do and how I ended up here in Cornwall.
So hey, I'm Naomi. I'm glad you're here.
Where are you from?
I was born on the beautiful island of Guernsey in the Channel Islands where my mother is from and shortly brought back to Saudi Arabia to be reunited with my Dad who is from the North of England. I grew up in the Middle East until my family moved to Houston, Texas. Shortly after graduating high school I hopped on a plane to Hong Kong and haven't lived long term in America since. I have lived in several countries after but seem to be sticking it out in the UK (for now).
What inspired your artwork?
I have suffered with mental health issues for the majority of my life. Through my personal artwork I explore my own experiences to improve myself, the power of the feminine and personal growth. My love of nature and it's healing properties, especially water, also feeds into a lot of my personal work as well as client work.
Where did you study?
I studied at the University of Leeds graduating with a degree in Graphic and Communication Design. During that time I took a Year in Industry where I worked for O'Neill Europe and Kima Surf.
What brought you to Cornwall?
A lot of things but mainly my love for the ocean and surfing. Once I graduated I surf instructed at Perranporth for two seasons while focusing on my design career. It took a couple years but I now work in the design world full-time. Cornwall has changed my life for the better and I can never imagine living far from the sea again.
When I'm not working I am finding ways to play. Whether that is going for a dip, a long sea swim, free-diving, snorkelling, surfing or collecting seaweed.
I will always be a water baby and that influences a lot of my work whether it's me being inspired by seaweed or working with others that enjoy the sea as much as I do.
Sea you in a bit,
Naomi