I have been drawing since my late teens and never had the opportunity or income to follow a traditional academic art route, so attending a local art college was never an option. Instead I became a “long-term” student of London Art College, a vocational route which began for me in 2006. Mostly self-taught, I gained a merit in the Painting and Drawing Diploma (2006), a merit in Graphic Design Diploma (2007), a distinction in Portraiture Certificate (2012) and a merit in Coloured Pencil Certificate (2014). My favourite CP educators/artists are Ann Kullberg and Lee Hammond. Both have been inspirational and their books have boosted my confidence and CP technique. I am influenced by the popart genre and live in awe of Roy Lichtenstein’s legacy. Coloured Pencil is my favourite medium as it is so easy to work with, no mess and quick to put away – three important facets for a full-time housewife and a part-time, hardworking mum with three children and husband. Now taking commission work via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julie.maguire.501