I was born in Singapore of South Indian parents from Kerala. My parents had 11 children, myself and my twin-sister being the youngest of the 11. In 1983 I married a British Citizen and emigrated to Sheffield. Initially, Sheffield seemed dull, grey, grim and cold. I started to paint my wallpaper to cheer myself up and ever since then never stop painting.

Although I studied art in Singapore, in Sheffield I consider myself as a self-taught artist. I run workshops as a volunteer for refugees, asylum seekers and immigrants to break down their barriers through painting, crafts and conversation in English. It is amazing what artworks they achieve despite their barriers and lack of English. They have so little yet give so much.

31 years in Sheffield and I have made many friends through running, cycling, climbing and painting. Now I find Sheffield a friendly village/community where everyone knows everyone. I am proud to live in Sheffield, the Steel City.

In her studio in Walkley.