Dechen Chodron

I always loved the arts but believed I could not draw, I began drawing once I learnt how to see, "Zen of seeing." I was then able to paint and draw.

I eventually went on to do a degree in fine art. My final work was a short video piece based on creation (made using water). I enjoy connecting with the earth and her natural beauty, which is always inspiring me in the process of painting in oils, I find it relaxing and liberating.

My artistic talents cover a range of disciplines because as an artist I have to respond to the next part of the journey.

I enjoy traveling and was sponsored by the Commonwealth Institute to go to Australia to study, which has lead me to teach Aboriginal art in schools. I have travelled to many different countries and I now teach about different cultures through art.

Currently I am working on a commission of a Somerset landscape.

Dechen's oil paintings sell nationwide in the UK and abroad, and she has a permanent exibition in Bristol.

During her career she has been commissioned by the Commonwealth Institute, the National Trust, actor Ben Kingsley, the Engine room, South Somerset Mind, Somerset Youth Service. She has worked as an arts lecturer at Yeovil College and schools through out Somerset and Dorset.