Gillian Heywood

Welcome to my corner of the art world — I’m so glad you’re here.

I’m a self-taught figurative and plein-air artist, now living in the peaceful French countryside with my husband and five cats. I work mainly in watercolour, drawn to its expressive, luminous qualities — though I also enjoy experimenting with other media when inspiration strikes.

Art has always been close to my heart. I was born in Kent but grew up in a military family, and my childhood was spent across Yemen, Egypt, Germany, Pakistan, and England. While I was encouraged to pursue a more traditional path — I trained for a secretarial career — the pull of creativity never truly left me.

After marrying in Cyprus and spending time in Singapore, we eventually settled back in the UK. It wasn’t until my sons had grown up that I began to paint again, contributing work to the Famine in Africa Appeal — an experience that reawakened my passion.

My journey as an artist took a new turn when I moved to the Sultanate of Oman, where I worked with the Yitti Art Gallery in Muscat and was honoured to hold my first solo exhibition at the British Embassy. Since then, I’ve exhibited and sold work at the Mathaf Gallery in London, throughout the UK, and here in France.

Over the years, my artistic projects have ranged widely — from book illustrations and military balls to industrial manuals, car advertisements, and stage sets. But at heart, I remain a figurative artist, most inspired by the character and emotion found in people, animals, and places.

Life in La Jonchère, a quiet hamlet in the Vendée (Pays de la Loire), has given me the space and calm to return fully to my painting. The rolling fields, village markets, and rustic architecture constantly feed my imagination.

I now run friendly, informal workshops from my petite gallery studio here in France. Whether you're a complete beginner or a fellow painter looking to refine your technique, I love helping others explore their creativity and build confidence with watercolour and drawing. I also take on a small number of commissions each year — from portraits to landscapes and special keepsakes.

Thank you for visiting — I hope you enjoy the view.

Gillian

Whether you’re looking to purchase original artwork, commission a bespoke piece, or join an inspiring workshop in the heart of France, I would love to hear from you.