Rebecca Westaway

I am a multidisciplinary amateur artist with a passion for exploring diverse art forms. My journey began in childhood, inspired by watching Paint Along With Nancy on TV. Nancy Kominsky’s techniques, from using grids to mastering facial proportions, laid the foundation for my love of art. Creativity runs in my family—my great-grandmother, Ellen Fellows, was a lifelong painter whose works still inspire me.

Originally from Manchester, I spent much of my adult life abroad, immersing myself in artistic cultures. In Paris, I refined my skills at Les ateliers beaux-arts, drawing inspiration from the city’s dynamic street art and timeless masterpieces. Later, in Athens, I joined εργαστήρι ζωγραφικής, where I explored collage and abstraction under the guidance of a knowledgeable teacher, Dimitris, whose lectures enriched my practice.

My current focus is on Japanese sumi-e ink painting, a meditative art form that values simplicity, balance, and expressive brushwork. Captivated by its ability to convey emotion through minimal strokes, I practise almost daily to refine my technique. Sumi-e has taught me the art of blending control with spontaneity, offering both creative challenge and calm reflection.

I also embrace digital art through Procreate, blending traditional techniques with modern tools. In 2023, I founded a thriving Facebook community for Procreate enthusiasts, which now has over five thousand members sharing ideas and inspiration.

Whether working in sumi-e, digital formats, or traditional media, I draw inspiration from nature, the places I’ve lived, and the joy of creative exploration.