I was born in 1973 and raised in West Bromwich, near Birmingham, UK. From a young age, I had a passion for drawing and creating, often spending hours crafting detailed models out of cardboard, such as cars and houses.

My love of art grew throughout my school years, especially at Edgecliff High School in Kinver. It was there that my art teacher, Mr. Evans, inspired and encouraged me to take my GCSE Art exam early, which I passed with a grade A.

I went on to study at Stourbridge College of Technology & Art, where I gained a broad foundation in many art disciplines. From there, I completed a BA (Hons) degree in Textile Design at West Surrey College of Art & Design in Farnham, Surrey. Specialising in printed textile design, I presented my final degree project at Butlers Wharf in London before graduating with honours.

Since relocating to Spain in 2000, I have continued my artistic career, focusing on animal portrait paintings and pastel artworks. I am an active member, and also Webmaster of The Association of Animal Artists UK, and I have previously been involved with The Birmingham Watercolour Society, Wolverhampton Society of Artists, and Worcester Society of Artists.

My Work

My work is centered on creating realistic, vibrant animal portraits. I particularly enjoy using pastel pencils on Clairefontaine Pastelmat paper, which allows me to capture fine details and convey the soul and personality of my subjects.
My paintings are both illustrative and observational, focusing on subjects that truly capture my interest. My greatest passion is animal art — I especially love bringing their eyes and fur to life with intricate detail. In the past, I have also explored other subjects such as fruit paintings and rust textures, drawn to their rich colors and unique surfaces. I tend to study my subjects obsessively, fascinated by how they are formed and what makes them unique.

My pet portraits have proven very popular both here in Spain and in the UK. I have also contributed to supporting a local animal rescue centre called PAD on the coast, where I exhibited my work at fairs and dog shows.

My Inspiration
I am inspired by many artists, but my greatest influence has always been my dad — a brilliant watercolour and pastel artist. His encouragement motivated me to exhibit my work and join several prestigious art societies in the UK.

I feel very privileged to be an active member and Webmaster of this society plus others: Associate Member of The Pastel Guild of Europe. I have just recently joined The British Art Club also regularly enter competitions run by The Art & Color 365 Magazine, continually pushing myself to grow and develop as an artist. run by The Art & color 365 Magazine

Website: www.claireyatesart.com

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