Rickie the Raccoon by Angela Cater in Stockport

I am a lifelong artist, a Stroke survivor and cat magnet. As a teenager, I supplemented my £25pw YTS wage by sketching my workmate’s favourite film and pop stars, and sometimes made more money than from the day job. Mostly, I am inspired by nature and colour. I paint the cats that share my life, the things that bring me joy and the environment around me. An avid reader, I have illustrated a number of children’s books, and often incorporate classic literature into my art. I love painting dot mandalas and find them most therapeutic, plus wildlife art, pet portraits and portraits. Recently, I have started to learn to create digital art using Procreate, whilst maintaining an illustrative style, and am enjoying making repeat patterns with which to design my own clothes. I am a long term designer for Greeting Card Universe, and twice recipient of a Life After Stroke Award for the Creative Arts.