I’ve always had a passion for anything artistic, and my earliest memories are of drawing birds and Disney characters! Art was my favourite subject at school, and I was the one who always asked for extra homework. I still recall the thrill of opening a new spiral-bound A4 sketchpad (50p!).

After completing a Foundation course in Art at Padgate College from 1981-1983, I moved ‘down south’ to Farnham to pursue a degree in Printed Textiles, which ignited my love of colour, print, and fabric. In 1983, I set up a workshop with a friend, but it wasn’t until January 2008 that I had the opportunity to open a gift shop at Viables Craft Centre in Basingstoke, where I sold handmade cards and carefully curated gifts.

My journey took an unexpected turn in 2013 when I was diagnosed with bladder cancer. After a major surgery and chemotherapy, I moved to a different unit and, in many ways, started afresh.

A few years ago, I reignited my creative spark during a painting weekend in St. Ives, which led to a successful exhibition at Proteus Creation Space in Basingstoke. That experience marked the beginning of a new chapter in my artistic journey.

After 16 busy years in my shop, I made the big decision in January 2024 to sell and focus entirely on my artwork. Adam and I began to spend more time beachcombing during our trips to Croyde in North Devon, Ilfracombe, and St. Ives, and I started creating pebble pictures. In August 2020, a trip to Seaham on the Durham coast inspired me to experiment with seaglass, which has since become a key feature of my work. Much of my current artwork incorporates seaglass collected from The Warren, Charmouth, Minster-on-Sea, and a variety of beaches across Cornwall.

I also experiment with various mixed media techniques alongside my seaglass art, including collage, Brusho, and alcohol inks, resulting in one-of-a-kind pieces. Thank you for reading my story, and I hope you find an affordable piece of art that resonates with you and brightens your space!

A small selection of my work is available at The Wonderland Gift Boutique at Viables Craft Centre, Basingstoke.

You can also follow my artistic journey on Facebook: Ali Clement Artworks or Instagram: @aliclementartworks