I am an abstract artist from Birmingham. My work follows a winding path, pulled along by noticing what I notice, whether it's a tiny fragment or a philosophical idea. I work in series, investigating a theme until it either burns itself out, or something brighter and shinier pops up in front of it, catching my eye, enticing me in a new direction. For the last 18 months, I've been making series of paintings in response to ancient philosophical approaches - first was the Hermetic Principles, and then Daoism and the I Ching. Much of my work is dominated by one or more circles - they're a recurring motif, and I have yet to understand my preoccupation with them - perhaps I should leave it a mystery. In August 2022 I left a long career in education, having taught both adults and children, and embraced the adventure of full time artmaking. I now paint almost every day in my studio, a wooden shed at the end of my garden - it's my sanctuary. As well as keeping my art practice energised, I co-run an artists' support network called United Artists of South Birmingham (UASB), which has brought over 170 local artists and craftspeople together. I still teach, although now it's in my own studio, and one-to-one/two. I sell my work (originals & giclee prints) at Art markets, and occasionally do artist demos and workshops. I'm thrilled to be represented by two wonderful independent galleries in Birmingham - Purple Gallery in Bournville, and Seventh Circle Arts & Aesthetics in Moseley. You can find me, and more of my paintings, on Instagram @samweeksartist, and Facebook Sam Weeks Artist, and my website too - www.samweeksartist.com. Please drop by and say hello.