Rebecca Lardner

Rebecca’s work has an upbeat charm that perfectly captures the new mood of the south west, which over the last few years has transformed itself form a largely unfashionable tourist destination, into an ultra-desirable destination for a cross section of society, from surfer, to TV chefs and affluent second- homers. Born in Purbeck she studied art in Liverpool then travelled the world from Ireland to India selling her work. But the tug of the turning tide eventually pulled her back to Dorset where she set up her studio and made tracks for the coast.

Rebecca’s engaging oils on canvas are animated portrayals of a hectic life lived on the land and sea. The large ensemble cast of figures, boats and sea birds creates a lively impression of ceaseless activity, and this is heightened by the natural curves of the classic English harbour which provide a strong sense of movement and energy. So not only has the status of this coastline been officially recognised with its designation as a world heritage site, it’s artistic value has also been brought to all of our notice by a genuine local hero.