ARSHA STEELE- MY STORY….

I am an employee for a charity called Leeds Women’s aid, which I have worked for over 21 years. This has been an immense part of my life, supporting vulnerable people in our community. In addition to my employment, art has been a valuable escape through out my life.

I have been inspired by great artists such as Monet and Vincent Van Gogh. I exhibited a painting at the age of 11 in the UK, sponsored by Cadbury’s: The title called ‘The Secret Garden’. This enabled me to gain confidence and grow as a self – taught artist and have painted intermittently through- out my life:

During the Covid Pandemic, it was important for me to maintain my mental wellbeing and this is when I flourished. I developed a passion in oils on canvas, producing beautiful, peaceful sceneries.  This gave me a sense of tranquillity and escape, which helped me through the effects of Covid and helped me channel my thoughts and energies into creating pleasing art work.  As an artist one continues to grow, I feel now, my work is accomplished and I feel confident to share my work with others to depict how I learned to be at peace, with the images which I have been painting.

I was extremely grateful to have been given my first  opportunity to exhibit my art work at the Atrium Gallery, Leeds St Jame’s Hospital this year from June- Aug 2023;  it was a truly the most  humbling experience.

By continuing to paint, I anticipate in providing a sense of therapy to others through the images. I hope others can feel the same and acknowledge my art in the view to share and purchase my work. I wish to promote and sell with organisations which would benefit with donations from the sales.