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My mother was always encouraging about my wanting to be an artist.

Mum and Dad always wanted me to do whatever I was happy doing. I nearly went to art college at 16, but decided to do a BTEC in performing arts.

My own interest in art was because of my mother. My father didn't like contemporary art, so he didn't give her large sums to spend. So, she began buying prints and drawings. During my school days, I remember sitting in on many of the early meetings.

I owe much to mother. She had an expert's understanding, but also approached art emotionally.

The arts have always been in and around my life.

My mother encouraged me to be artistic. It was written in a contract at an early age that I would be an artist.

My mother was a high school arts teacher, so I was always surrounded by the arts.

My mother and father were interested in the arts.

My mum's amazing - every time I achieve something in my career, she buys me a diamond earring.

I got to grow up in an incredibly artistic family.