Yvonne Ayoub

Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, of Austrian and English descent, I have always lived a nomadic life, shuttling between countries as diverse as Saudi Arabia, Canada and northern Scotland. I was classically trained in the Performing, Creative & Decorative Arts and today, as an award-winning UNESCO artist, I exhibit regularly in Athens, Lebanon and Skiathos, Greece. Although I'm now based in Central London, for much of the year I live on the idyllic Greek ('Mamma Mia!') island of Skiathos where I have recently opened an Art Centre offering Art classes, Painting holidays, Creative workshops and an Artist's Retreat, welcoming visitors (artists, students and tutors) from all over the world. In addition, as a freelance illustrator/muralist and photographer, I work mostly to commission in a wide variety of styles and media, using a broad range of artistic disciplines ('Versatility' is  my middle name!) In my paintings I try to record the life I see - to capture a moment - and to reflect the rich diversity of the many fascinating cultures I have personally experienced. Presently my greatest challenge is to capture the purity of light and bright, vibrant, intensity of colours, that are unique to the Greek islands in the Aegean. At the same time I have an on-going passion for (and a keen desire to perpetuate) the traditional craftsmanship skills and techniques that are all too quickly disappearing from our modern world. I believe Art in all its forms is the true food for the soul and that it should be easily accessible, widely celebrated and freely enjoyed by all. It is a common language we all can share regardless of any geographical, political, economical, cultural, racial or religious differences. Original paintings, signed prints and greetings cards of all my work can be purchased online. For details and to see more of my work, please visit : http://www.yvonne-ayoub.com