Firstly dearest reader, apologies for not updating the blog sooner.  Sometimes things don't go quite according to plan.

I have been deliberating for some time as to whether I should put my news on my blog, but it only seems fair to do so.
Unfortunately I was diagnosed with cancer of the lymph system in January, a bit of a bummer to say the least.  I am now receiving Chemotherapy and feel much better for it, the trademark red hair has been replaced by some jolly funky scarves and hats..... any ideas for fun headgear?
The prognosis for this is very good and I am determined to make a speedy recovery, all aided by my amazing family, friends and staff at The Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.

Life has slowed down a little and that in turn has provided me with the insight I have needed in my work and I am actually being much more productive now than I have for the past year.
My family have indulged me the pleasure of being allowed to paint in front of the living room fire, which is jolly cozy!  Inspiration for the cheeky things my ladies are getting up to is coming from all angles as I reassess the world around me, even dreary hospital stays are providing huge amounts of painting possibilities, good things can come from gloomy ones if you look hard enough :)

So, even with that small bombshell, the dust has settled and I am planning my year ahead.  Possibilities of solo shows are on the horizon and I am forging a new collection of paintings with that in mind, I'll keep you posted as to dates etc as they arrive.

I will be showing work again at The Newcastle and Gateshead Art Fair in October with The Art House Gallery based in Kelso.  If you haven't been yet, go, it's an amazing space.  The entire current Michelle Milburn Collection is residing at the Art House as we speak, and Tony and Yvonne will be delighted to spend some time with you.
Any equiries as to the availability of paintings would be best directed to The Art House.

Work was shown with The McNeill gallery at the beginning of January where several of my pieces were launched in the Beryl Cook Exhibition.  Although it collided with all the dreadful snowy weather, I have been reliably informed that interest was high, so I'm chuffed about that too.

I'm terribly excited about the year ahead despite the blip, I hope you will continue to follow what i'm up to, I'm not about to vanish off the radar just yet!!

Thank you again for dropping by, I'll be back online very soon with the latest painty updates from the cozy living room studio!
Mxx