About Helena
The Backstory
I started down a scientific road, with a degree in medicine and 5 years practicing in UK hospitals. But life has never felt complete without the ocean, so when the opportunity came to guide voyages in Antarctica, I threw myself in head-first! I love the careful observation of the natural world, but my guiding work also allows creativity in how I engage and communicate about scientific topics with clients.
Painting
I have always been making something, for as long as I can remember. The act of creating is deeply satisfying, whether on paper, with fabric, wood or glass.
When I began to travel more for work, I took my art on the road, and discovered watercolour as a medium. It’s portable, bright and vibrant – perfect for quick studies of the natural world. Watercolour painting has a long legacy onboard ships and as part of expeditions, and I enjoy combining it with ink and linework for a more contemporary take on natural subjects.
I began illustrating nautical charts for charity auctions. I paint both on board and back home in the studio, and have begun working with a printing partner to produce high quality giclee reproductions to allow more people to have a momento representing their voyages.
Contact Me
Interested in commissioning an illustrated nautical chart? Let’s talk!