A LOCKDOWN artist turned her passion into a career - and is now exhibiting her work in Burnham.

Joanna Green, 29, from Maldon, was always creative and studied art at A-level.

She said: “I have always loved being creative and its most definitely where I find my peace.”

However, as she got older she lost touch with her creative side, instead focusing on a corporate career path in accounts.

Then, the Covid-19 pandemic and following lockdowns came along. 

“I had been on furlough from my office job and took the free time to redecorate my home. 

“Whilst seeking art for my walls to complete the look I was unable to find anything to match my décor. I decided I would create my own. 

“I loved the process, I chose my colours, size, picked out frames, ordered my paper and got to work. 

“A fair few hours later I was half pleased with what I had created. Once dry, I framed and hung it on my wall. 

“Feeling a little unsure with my work and, ever critical, I took a picture to see what the people of Instagram would make of my little project.”

Joanna received a huge amount of support, with comments and messages complimenting her work and some even asking her to create something for them too. 

“I was utterly gobsmacked with the response. I couldn’t believe it. To say it spiralled from there would be an understatement,” she said.

Since then the artist has painted nearly everyday, spending every spare hour perfecting her craft.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Joanna GreenJoanna Green

She does so by producing new techniques and creating new styles, researching, keeping up to date with trends, and growing an Instagram following. 

“I have been so incredibly fortunate to be so busy with commissions, I was able to take this career path full time,” she added. 

Joanna handed in her notice at her office job in Chelmsford and by May this year she started the Green House Art full-time. 

“It has been a labour of love, working evenings and weekends to keep on top of my waiting list, while I built up the courage to leave a secure job not knowing if I could keep momentum. 

“I have since had the pleasure of working with some incredible people, interior designers, home influencers and the most fabulous loyal clientele, each sale means the world to me.”

This weekend her art will be displayed at the Canary Shed in Burnham.

She said: “I feel incredibly fortunate to have followed my gut and pursued my passion against the odds.”

The Blackwater Art Group exhibition opens this Saturday and will run until September 5, from 9am to 5pm daily.

There will be a host of artists from the area with their work on display.

Entry is free.

For more information go to facebook.com/thecanaryshed.

Find the Green House Art at facebook.com/TheGreenHouseArt.