There is a lot to enjoy in Dorset, the great outdoors, locally produced food and not forgetting talented Artists. In my spare time when I’m not blogging I enjoy doing a bit of cross stitch. I came across Rozanne Bell’s artwork while on my favourite cross stitch website Gecko Rouge and have since brought two beautiful kits for myself and one for my mum. I thought it would nice to introduce you all to an amazing Zimbabwe born Dorset artist who sharers a love for Dorset and the South Coast. This is all portrayed in here spectacular painting.
When did you first discover your love of painting? Well painting began as a punishment for me. I was expelled aged 15 and my mother was a fine artist and made me learn to paint flowers! I was hopeless and hated it. I only revisited art aged 18 when it became evident that I was unemployable!
What does your artwork represent? My art represents fun and colour. I don’t take myself seriously and having a blast whilst I paint is the most important factor! I have always said that the day I don’t enjoy painting is the day I’ll set fire to my brushes.
Why did you choose Dorset over anywhere else in the world after moving from Africa? We chose Dorset because it seemed such a gentle county to raise our five children who were aged between 5 and 12 when we pitched up in the UK. It was obviously an enormous culture shock for them and we knew Dorset would be perfect. As adults four of the five having travelled extensively have settled in Dorset, which says it all.
Where is your favourite place to paint? My favourite place to paint is out of my head!! I’m incapable of copying anything for real. I have a billion images stored in my brain as I am a frantic observer, I think my paintings represent a huge conglomeration of Africa, England, Scotland, France and a sprinkle of Spain. All my favourite places.
Where are your top 5 places to visit along our beautiful Dorset coastline? My favourite places in Dorset are firstly Studland, I always feel as though I’m in Africa. Chesil Beach, Weymouth beach walks, Swanage coastal walks on the cliffs and Lulworth Coves are the other four.
Rozanne finished by saying “I drink gallons of Gin, and love Seafood – dog walks in Dorset ARE THE BEST!!”
I am currently stitching Moonlight and Saint Michael’s Mount by Rozanne Bell, both of which remind me of childhood holidays to Devon and Cornwall.
You can find Rozanne’s artwork on her website or through a number of artist specilists:
wyecliffe.com/blogs/news/rozanne-bell-and-friends
ginandcoast.co.uk 