Gemma Taylor – a Life in Art
We were disappointed to miss Gemma Taylor’s pop-up shop in Haverfordwest, so when we caught up with her, we asked her to tell us about her life and work – before she leaves Pembrokeshire.
Gemma said: “I’m an artist born and bred in Pembrokeshire. I currently live in Haverfordwest and have done all my life, but I’m looking to relocate to Cardiff later this year.
“My artistic talents showed through from a young age and I would be allowed out of lessons in primary school because I would be painting images on the borders around the classroom.
“I discovered I had a flair for drawing portraits at the age of 19 when I drew Dolly Parton as a birthday gift for a friend. I continued drawing people from that point on and then I started painting in my early twenties. I produced a portrait of Marilyn Monroe in oils which I liked enough to continue painting.
“The three main media I use are pencil, oils and acrylic. I created an entire series of 50 paintings, each with a corresponding poem during the covid lockdown. I took inspiration from my own life going as far back as my early childhood and depicting my struggles with childhood trauma and severe mental health difficulties. Hopefully, I’ll soon be getting it published as a book.
“I love to draw and paint portraits but I also enjoy experimenting with different styles and subjects. I have an astrology series I created which I recently displayed in the pop-up shop in the Riverside, Haverfordwest.
“I ran the shop for two weeks and it was great to do something different. I displayed other artworks there as well.
“I’ve recently become self-employed and have set up an Etsy shop under the name GemmaTaylorArtistry. Many of my artworks are available to buy on there. I also have a Facebook and Instagram page under the same name.
“I take commissions for family portraits (drawings and paintings) but I would also take commissions for animal portraits, portraits of famous people or anything that the client would like me to produce. Prices for commissions go from £120 upwards depending on what is wanted.
“I like to spend my time when I’m not producing art, listening to music, reading or with friends.
“My favourite piece of art that I have done is my St Pepper Beatles painting. I’m also fond of the Lion.
“I love being creative and enjoy the art and poetry that I produce. It’s a big part of who I am and one that I am grateful for.”
Thank you, Gemma. We wish you well in future ventures and hope you won’t stay away from Pembrokeshire completely.
Contact details:
Etsy shop – GemmaTaylorArtistry
Facebook and Instagram – GemmaTaylorArtistry
Email – gk_taylor@live.co.uk
Mobile – 07482732780
