PORTRAIT Artist.
Capture a memory with a custom pencil portrait, or learn to create your own. With a decade of experience in hyperrealistic pencil portraiture, I specialize in capturing the unique character and emotion of my subjects with meticulous detail. This passion extends to teaching it as well, where I have a proven track-record of guiding students and novice alike to master this intricate art form.
• Commissions • Workshops • Private Classes
photography
For me, photography is the art of observation and the craft of storytelling. It’s about looking beyond the surface to find the genuine story in a single moment. I bring an artist's eye to every session, focusing on the interplay of light, emotion, and composition to create images that are both beautiful and authentic. From capturing the joy of a family workshop to creating warm, candid portraits during a creative session, my goal is to document your experience with sincerity. I deliver a visual narrative that you can return to for years to come— a collection of treasured moments, artfully preserved.
Portraits • Events • Creative Sessions
Professional portrait Photography
A portrait is more than just a picture; it's a timeless capture of personality and character. Whether you're looking for professional headshots, a beautiful family photograph, or an individual session to celebrate yourself, my goal is to create an image that is authentically you. I provide a relaxed and comfortable environment, guiding you through the process to capture your best side. Together, we'll create stunning, high-quality portraits that you will be proud to share and display for years to come.
outdoor Photoshoots
There's nothing quite like the beauty of natural light and a stunning landscape. Using the beautiful parks and countryside around Basingstoke and beyond, I create vibrant and authentic images in a relaxed outdoor setting. This is the perfect choice for families, couples, and individuals looking for photos that feel dynamic, natural, and full of life. An outdoor photoshoot allows for genuine interaction and movement, resulting in a collection of images that truly captures your personality.
Event Photography (Graduations)
Graduations are milestone events full of pride and celebration. For Andrew, it was important to capture his authentic happiness without feeling staged. By focusing on the genuine joy of the moment, I created a portrait that he can look back on for years to come, instantly remembering the feeling of accomplishment on his special day.
EVent photography (birthdays)
My goal at any birthday event is to let my clients focus on celebrating while I capture the memories. This candid shot of Ope, beaming with happiness as she holds her cake, is a perfect example. It’s these key, joy-filled moments that tell the story of the day, creating a gallery of cherished memories for the family to revisit long after the last slice of cake is gone.
Wedding & Pre-Wedding Photography
Your wedding day is the start of a beautiful new chapter, and I am dedicated to telling your unique love story with elegance and care. My approach combines timeless, romantic portraits with documentary-style photography to capture the candid, heartfelt moments in between.
The journey starts with a pre-wedding photoshoot—a wonderful, relaxed opportunity for us to get to know each other and for you to become comfortable in front of the camera. On the day itself, I will seamlessly capture every detail, from the quiet preparations to the joyful celebration, ensuring your cherished memories are preserved forever.
Art CURATOR
With a foundation of over 10 years as a professional artist, I bring a creator's insight and a strategic vision to my curatorial practice. My approach is informed by a Master's degree in Curating and my current role as Creative Director (Talk Canvas Gallery), where I shape artistic programmes and gallery direction. For me, curating is not simply about arranging objects in a space; it's about architecting experiences, building community, and fostering dialogue. I specialise in developing engaging public art programmes and interactive events that break down barriers, making art accessible and meaningful for everyone involved. My mission is to create dynamic platforms where art and the community can connect and thrive.
Exhibitions • Public Programmes • Brand Partnerships
Curating Social Experiences: The Sip & Paint
This photo captures the vibrant atmosphere from one of the many Sip & Paint events I host. Each session is carefully designed to be more than just an art class; it's a curated social experience. My goal is to create a relaxed and welcoming environment where creativity can flourish without pressure.
Public Engagement: The 'Paint with Olatoye' Series
This image is from one of my many 'Paint with Olatoye' sessions, a recurring public engagement series I'm proud to run in partnership with the University of Essex. During key university events like open days and taster days, I man a dedicated booth to deliver a variety of interactive and engaging art activities. The goal is always to create a welcoming creative space that encourages students and parents alike to pause their day and make something together. It's a powerful way to make art accessible, foster community connections, and add a memorable, hands-on experience to the university's public calendar.
Community Outreach: Art Beyond the Gallery Walls
Following a major show I co-curated, we launched this community outreach programme to extend the project's impact. This hands-on workshop, where participants decorated boxes, was designed to turn passive viewers into active creators.
Curating Personal Moments
My curatorial mindset extends to the most personal of projects. When commissioned to create this portrait for a couple's 40th wedding anniversary, the work wasn't finished until the final presentation. The goal was not just to deliver a piece of art, but to curate a deeply meaningful moment for their milestone celebration. Seeing their happy and pleased reactions affirmed that the experience of receiving art is just as important as the art itself.
Hi!
About Me
I am a multidisciplinary creative based in Basingstoke, working at the intersection of creation, visual storytelling, and collaboration. My work is driven by a passion to build connections between art and community.
I am always open to discussing new commissions, collaborations, or educational opportunities. Please feel free to get in touch.