1 .Tell us something about you.

I originally started painting animals so that I could eventually paint a believable dragon. I sort of got stuck painting animals, probably because I enjoy it so much.

2. When did you start with photography or drawing?

I've always drawn, since I can remember, but whenever anyone asked to see my portfolio, I didn't have one. So about 10 yrs ago, I decided to get one together and also teach myself how to paint.

3. What equipment do you use? And what do you recommend (equipment wise)

I use oils and sometimes acrylics, on canvas. I also dabble with digital, but mainly this is for mocking up ideas.
Most people, when they take up painting, seem to try watercolours, and fear oils, but you should have a go. Just take it slow, and if it starts to get muddy, then leave it well alone until dry. It will only get worse, the more you fiddle. I personally can't get on with w/colour. I can't stop fiddling with it and it just doesn't suit my style.
So just because one medium might fail you, it doesn't mean that another will too.

4. Where is your favourite shooting place?

I paint all of my pic's in my spare bedroom/studio.

5. Do you have some tips for people concerning big cat painting?

Observe references very closely and be as accurate as possible when it comes to details, habitat, even incidental animals, like butterflies etc, that you may add to it. Make sure they all live in the same area.
Be wary of things like eye highlights too. Most are flash reflections and learning what is a natural highlight, will make your pic's more believable.
As regards painting itself, I have too many tips to list here. Most of which, are simply gathered by good observation and practice. Learn from each pic you do and don't be scared to try new things. It doesn't matter if it goes wrong, but you may also learn something.

6. Why do you like big cat painting and what was your first painting that was your personal favourite?

I'm not sure really. I love all animals and I do paint other subjects, but I do tend to paint more big cats than anything else. They're just so adorable I guess.
My personal favourite is the next painting. It always is. I'm never completely happy and I'm always seeking to improve myself. Typical disgruntled artist I suppose.

7. Which Big cat is your favourite and why?

I don't have a fav. They are all beautiful and each has its own unique quality.

8. Which Big cat is your favourite photo/drawing object?

Again, I don't have a fav. Tigers are always a good subject to paint. I mean, find me a wildlife artist that hasn't painted one.

9. Tell us an interesting fact of a big cat.

Mmmm? I can't think of one off hand, but I have an interesting small cat fact.
Apparently, if a cat falls from a tall building, it will survive from below and above the 5th floor area.
From below, it will land softly enough to survive and from above, it will incorporate a gliding effect, also landing softly enough.
Yet, from around the 5th floor height, it will die. It is too high to land softly and too low to start the gliding.
Sorry, not really what you asked for, but it's all I have atm. And don't go trying this out. We don't want the streets full of dead cats, lol.

10. What would be your dream location to paint Big cats?

I would love to go to Africa or India. Anywhere there are big cats really, even the Himalayas.

11. Who is your favourite photographer/artist that inspires you?

There are so many great wildlife artists out there. I respect any decent painting, regardless of name. You can learn something from virtually any pic.

12. How did you get interested in Big Cats?

Because they are there. How can you not be into these beautiful creatures?