“The best things in life are about contrast, and for me, nothing looks more striking on a wall than that rich, bold silhouette. I love the juxtaposition of what appears to be an ancient relic, combined with a naive and whimsical element. Paint and wax is laid primitively onto bare wood in layers; I work quickly and without thinking. A character starts to show itself, the silhouette folding to fill the negative space. Sharp tools scratch rawly into the paint, revealing texture like scrimshaw.”

Tabby studied illustration at Central St Martins and went on to found Cygnets Art School and Sailors Jail Gallery with her artist husband James Heslip. They live in Cornwall in the pink house at the top of the hill by the sea, with their children Rudy and Ziggy.