Hi I’m Thelma. I live in Ripley in Derbyshire. When I’m not painting and drawing, I love to read, cook and write.
I have loved drawing and painting since I was very small and when I couldnt find any paper, I would draw in the blank pages at the beginning of books. This didn’t make me too popular… š¦
I studied graphic design at Nottingham College of Art in the sixties.
I had a break from art when I had my children but after they became more independent, I took up painting again and began selling my paintings through galleries and exhibitions. I also produced topical cartoons for local newspapers – which I loved!
I worked freelance for a time, writing and illustrating for a CB Radio comic called 10-4 Action! After that, I began writing and drawing cartoons – some of which were published in Take a Break magazine.
I worked as a Graphics Visualiser for Derby City Council where I created teaching materials with signs for Deaf adult students. This led me to produce a children’s book for both deaf and hearing children which incorporates B.S.L. signs and greetings cards with B.S.L. greetings. These can be found at: thelmak31.wix.com/thelma-knowlson
I have also worked as a freelance illustrator for Makaton.
I am a member of Matlock Artists Society.
In December 2020, I had a pastel painting chosen by King House Gallery in their art competition. It was included in their online gallery and in their magazine. The picture is called ‘The Lockdown Gardener,’ which I produced one day when idly wondering what we will do with all the leftover masks once lockdown is ended. It can be viewed on the ‘My Work’ page.
I have just submitted an oil painting to King House for their winter competition. It’s title is ‘Winter Teazels.’ It can also be viewed on my work page.
Regarding styles, I don’t think mine is instantly recognisable and I think this is because I work in various mediums and on various themes, but that makes it more interesting for me. I never get bored as I’m constantly trying to hone my skills.
thelmaknowlsonart 