I originally trained as a textile designer in the 1980s at Dewsbury & Batley Art College, West Yorkshire and more recently I have turned to other media including canvasses, prints, glassware, ceramics, stained glass and fabrics. The creative process can't be constrained to one medium and I encourage you to try out your design ideas in different ways too. My work is highly illustrative and much of it is more design-led as opposed to 'fine art', featuring a combination of natural themes as well as more abstract or geometric patterns. I feel that these concepts connect me back to my artistic roots in textile design, and draw on many of the themes that I personally enjoy exploring. Many of my designs are spiritual in nature as I have been inspired by the tarot and astrology, and you might also like to explore the symbolism of the designs in this book as you enjoy adding your own colours and themes. You use symbols every day; language, icons, road signs, even brand logos, and the symbols that you are drawn to say something about you, so do explore them as you add your own individuality to these pages, and as you do that, you will discover your own unique style as I have discovered mine. You might recognise that style running through these pages, as well as different ideas that I continually incorporate as my work evolves. Whether you're enjoying this book to develop your creativity or just to relax your mind, you can find a connection with the images and the natural world that they represent and perhaps discover more about yourself in the process. Have fun! You can find out more about my work at my website: www.mystichare.com