I’m an artist/author/illustrator and mum, based in Forest Hill. I make children’s books, paint portraits, swimmers, clouds and more, and host many inspirational, playful art clubs for children.
How long have you lived in the area?
My husband and I moved here from Clapham in 2013 and haven’t looked back.
What brought you here?
We were after a bit more space, but still wanted to be well-connected. It was a delight to discover the joys of the overland to London Bridge, the Windrush line to Shoreditch, or my favourite, the 176, a few steps from our front door straight into town dropping us off right next to the Savoy (top deck at the front is the best seat in the house, erm, well on the bus).
What do you most value about the area/street you live in?
The community, the village feel, the woodpecker and the GREEN space. It’s just wonderful. It’s rare to walk down the road without seeing (on average at least 5) folk you know. The support network is amazing, the parks & gardens are incredible, and it just feels like home.
What one thing would you change?
I’d save all the trees that have been knocked down and sadly destroyed by the merciless SKIP pick-up trucks. We have seen some adorable ones savagely knocked down over the years.
What’s the one thing you couldn’t do without?
The birdsong.
Do you know your neighbours?
Yes, very well, next door, next door but one, across the road and over the fence. A cup of sugar is never an issue!
The most famous person you’ve seen or met?
OOOOOh, Richard Ayoade. I’ve seen him a few times (love him), but the closest encounter is when my girls and I came out of the dentist on Lordship Lane a couple of years ago, and he walked STRAIGHT past us. I was completely star-struck, squeezed my girls’ hands very hard, smiled a very goofy smile and may have dribbled a bit out of my numb mouth post tooth treatment. All in all, I must have looked like a total nutter, sorry Richard.
Where is your favourite place to eat?
The Watson General Telegraph do a burger of dreams. I had a meeting there recently with two FAB friends and literally had to down tools and pause upon the first bite. YUM.
The best-kept secret.
The artist capital of SE London, Havelock Walk. This ancient cobble-stone street, combined with the dreamy Canvas & Cream Cafe & gallery, houses artists galore with the likes of Philippa Tunstill, Serena Rowe, Natacha Bisarre, Rob Lowe (aka Supermundane) and many, many more.
I’m delighted too, to have exhibited there with a crew of artisans for Christmas fairs and Open Weekends over the past few years, with the Artist’s Open House being the next one this May. I will be in number 9 Havelock Walk (The Artisan Market) along with Nick White, Tilt Ceramics, Sarah Horne, Sonsoles Print Workshop and many more. We’re all hosting a SPLASHY PAINT tent for kids, which is going to be super fun!
Coffee or tea? Where?
The Teapot. Our youngest was built on their paninis when I was pregnant.
Where’s your favourite place to walk?
Peckham Rye Park, Sexton Gardens, when the Wisteria is in bloom.
What is your favourite shop?
Forest, North Cross Road. Dreamy.
This article first appeared in the June issue of SE23.