My Grandfather, Albert Stew, was a plumber and skilled amateur artist. Following a stroke after retirement, he lost the use of his right hand, so continued painting with his left!
My father, Leslie Stew, was a locally well-known artist in Bishop’s Stortford. He worked for many years in the printing industry, whilst pursuing art in his spare time, and after early retirement enthusiastically devoted the rest of his life to painting and teaching.
Stimulated by my father, I started painting in my teens, but later, travel, marriage, family and work intervened but I was able to continue painting and teaching.
After coming to Exeter in 1990 I started teaching Adult Education classes for the Local Authority, and later for Exeter College.
I have gradually reduced my teaching, to spend more time painting, but I am still thrilled to encourage and lead students through the wonderful world of painting!