Monochrome Award, Society of Graphic Fine Art/The Drawing Society exhibition, Mall Galleries 2026

Diane Ashman opened her first shop selling vintage clothing, textiles, old lace and antique jewellery over 50 years ago. Her shop in Welshpool, Powys is a treasure trove of unique items and unusual finds, from designer labels to home accessories, a collectors paradise.

One of a series of experimental portraits drawn within blue washes.

I was honoured to be commissioned to make a formal portrait of Deputy Commandant Sean O’Connor OBE, who was leaving RAF Cranwell College, Sleaford, Lincolnshire for his next posting. The drawing is displayed at RAF Cranwell in a gallery of portraits of all Deputy Commandants since the base was established in the 1920s.

At the end of a long, hard day Ian was taking a moment to relax.

Robert, taking a break from work in the garden and looking out over the hills of the Kentish Weald.