Visit artist's studios and venues in Peterborough and the surrounding areas
I took early retirement after 30+ years as a primary school teacher where one of my roles was invariably art More
![[caption id="attachment_23920" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Gaudi Inspired Commission[/caption]
I took early retirement after 30+ years as a primary school teacher where one of my roles was invariably art co-ordinator - I have always had a bit of an arty streak!
I became interested in mosaics when my head teacher asked me to make one for the school with some lovely tiles which had been donated. Having only ever made mosaic patterns using paper squares in the classroom, the task of proper mosaicking was rather daunting. However after a lot of thought, problem solving and help from some children, a lovely mosaic was conceived and produced which still hangs outside the school. That was in 2006.
Since leaving teaching I still find the whole process of designing, sorting, gluing, grouting, cleaning and finishing a piece to be extremely therapeutic, rewarding and addictive. I now have my own "studio", attend regular craft fairs and take on big and small commissions.
My inspiration comes from where I am "at the moment". My fish and all things seaside happened after a trip to Southwold. The birds and flowers came after a walk through our local bluebell woods. I love scouting around charity shops and vintage markets - always on the lookout for that something special I can use! Quirky glass beads are a favourite find.
[caption id="attachment_25682" align="aligncenter" width="519"] Warkworth Castle, Northumberland[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_6074" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Beach Huts[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_7514" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Mosaic Letters[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_23922" align="alignright" width="256"] Water Lilies[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_21757" align="alignleft" width="389"] Feature Window Commission[/caption]](https://paos.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Alison-Parry-125-779x600.jpg)
