Despite having a love of art from an early age, Jill was obliged to take up a (nevertheless successful )career in education, teaching in diverse communities both large and small, cityand country, achieving deputy headship, and was invited to head up a government initiative looking into inequality in schools.

It was not until retirement ,that she was able to finally realise her lifelong dream and devote her enquiring and creative mind to Art. “I am my paintings and my paintings are me “is how she describes this time of her life.

Her work is diverse, as she continually explores her ideas. Early subjects were of Sea scapes and Harbours and reflections ,in both acrylic and watercolour. Here she was absorbed by lines and geometry, before moving to freer more impressionistic work, featuring Figures,Jazz, Pets, and Humour. 

Her most recent work is inspired by moods and feelings inspired by poetry ,and has become more abstract. Her final advice to us was a heartfelt “Enjoy your work”.

Her work can be seen online, https://www.artgallerysw.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOopkQQi0kTtLmvnBT4nFJj5V5JQy1_OXvZZcrC3qp4P1VqdNqtVG and she regularly exhibits in Somerset Art Weeks each September.Jill Preston

This Wednesday at our monthly evening meeting ,we enjoyed a talk by local Artist Jill Preston , about her life and journey in Art.